Saab is a Swedish premium car company that has recently changed hands, going from its position in the General Motors stable to a new role as a niche-oriented component of Saab Spyker Automobiles. The recent uncertainty over the company’s future, combined with tepid interest in its new models have sent the prices of used Saab cars into a downward spiral. The upside of this state of affairs is that those seeking a comfortable and competent European sedan, wagon or crossover can pick up a secondhand Saab for very little money. Saab’s product lineup has for several years been centered around only a few models, with the 9-3 compact sedan and wagon and the 9-5 mid-size sedan and wagon generating the most interest. Each offers reasonable power and handling in an attractively styled package, along with several unique-to-the-brand features and design decisions that have given used Saab cars a certain cachet on the previously-owned market. Saab has also offered two crossover vehicles over the past few years. One, the 9-2x, was based on the Subaru Impreza compact hatchback, while the other, the 9-7x, was a subtly re-styled Chevrolet TrailBlazer SUV. Each of these automobiles is quite rare, making them difficult used cars to find.Popular Used Saab Vehicles Saab’s tightly focused offerings offer some appealing used deals; below, we’ll take a quick look at three of the most popular used Saab cars.
• Used Saab 9-3 – Whether found in sedan, convertible or wagon (SportCombi) form, this used Saab offers luxury as well as solid handling and acceleration thanks to its turbocharged engine options. Saab’s distinctive styling is most visible on the 2004-and-up Aero editions of the vehicle, which upgrade exterior trim to reflect the high performance nature of the model. • Used Saab 9-5 – A mid-size premium sedan that can be had at almost unbelievably low prices on the previously-owned market, the Saab 9-5 is one of the strongest values to be found amongst European imports. A wagon edition also helps it to compete against somewhat less attractively styled options from Volvo and Audi. • Used Saab 9-2x – Fans of the Subaru WRX who were turned off by the hatchback’s economy-inspired interior design will definitely be interested in the 9-2x Aero, which borrows the Japanese car’s turbocharged drivetrain and sporty platform and adds more comfort equipment. Built between 2004 and 2006, the 9-2x can also be had with a naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine.
The Bottom Line On Used Saab Vehicles Saab’s reputation as a builder of high quality, near-luxury automobiles is not reflected in the prices of its vehicles on the secondhand market. There are some serious deals to be had for buyers willing to take the chance that factory support will continue t be available in the future for previously-owned models.
