Saab 9-3 convertible 2005 review

Sitting behind the finely shaped high windscreen I felt like the queen of the highway and attracted a royal amount of attention the inexperienced convertible driver is unaccustomed to.

Just kick back and enjoy the smooth ride because this model is a little sluggish out of the blocks.

However, who is in a hurry when you are driving a convertible?

There are no difficult levers to contend with and concerns about lowering the roof and enjoying the sunshine as I prepare for a leisurely drive up to Palm Beach are allayed by the automatic button on the dash. The roof is an entertainment feature in itself.

In one smooth, elongated flick of the convertible roof switch, the elegant Saab-design removes the top within 20 seconds – but don't try and make the transition while the car is on the move. The ever-sensible, safety-conscious Swedes have made the process a strictly stationary manoeuvre.

The car has a host of standard safety features including anti-lock brakes (ABS) and side door anti-intrusion beams. There's airbags for the driver, and front passenger plus side (thorax) airbags in the front. The front passenger seat belts also have pretensioners.

The LED information display on the dash provides the driver with myriad useful information from the time and outside temperature to safety messages and audio details.

Reverse parking is a dream with the automatic distance estimator and warning alarm letting the driver know when the car is getting a bit too close to that shopping centre pillar or Lamborghini parked behind.

Driving a key-less car was a new experience but once you get used to the feel and ease of the plastic wedge that slides into a central console to turn over the engine, you'll never look back.

Using the audio system is enhanced by the convenient steering wheel controls that allow radio station changing without lifting your eyes from the road.

The car's interior is spacious. There is plenty of room in the cabin and passengers in the back seat won't feel too cramped.

The plush leather seats are particularly comfortable. And with the roof up, you feel like you are driving a regular car.

Surround noise is minimal. The boot packs a picnic basket, enough luggage for a weekend away or a week's worth of groceries comfortably but space is reduced dramatically when the top is down.

Other surprises include pop-out drink-holders and a curiously large glove box fit to contain whatever takes your fancy.

The automatic model is priced at $69,400 or $66,900 for the manual.

The linear convertible comes with an optional Linear Luxury Pack that will set you back another $4000. That includes a remote alarm, a six-disc in-dash CD stacker and electric front seats.

It also includes the parking assistance.

The Saab 9-3 convertible is a very comfortable ride.

But if it's revs and grunt you are after, go for something that is more responsive. The car is powered by a 2.0-litre low-pressure turbocharged engine and produces a moderate 110kW of power at 5500rpm.

Its maximum torque of 240Nm is achieved from 2000rpm to 3500rpm.

Sitting behind the wheel a driver feels secure and safe but its acceleration performance leaves a little to be desired.

However, on the road car handles well, takes corners easily and manages the higher speeds well once the car gets there.

It really hits its straps on the straight stretches of the freeway where driving is an absolute pleasure.

There is something incredibly romantic about the Saab 9-3 convertible, just don't forget your scarf or driver's hat and head for the open road.