2004 Saab 9-3 Aero Handling Review

Finesse is necessary to achieve any semblance of performance driving. The steering seems to lack self-centering and has unusual gain that finds the driver creeping unaware into the next lane. Push the 9-3 past its narrow window of acceptable behavior and electronic nannies from the car's standard ESP dynamic stability control and/or Cornering Brake Control systems aggressively cut in and out, applying individual brakes and slapping down the throttle. Grippy 17-inch Pirelli PZero Rosso tires help save the day.

The Aisin-Warner Sentronic five-speed automatic in our tester helps retain an element of control with a choice of gear-slot or steering-wheel-paddle manumatic shifting. By changing gears manually, the driver can predictably control revs and turbo boost. But it should be more fun than this. Otherwise, the 9-3 offers a tidy interior trimmed in attractive leather, with well-placed switchgear and supportive seats. The audio-system controls require some time to master, but everything else works logically.

The 9-3 Aero makes its driver work to achieve good performance; stepping outside the boundaries results in penalties. In snowy, rainy, slimy climes where front drive offers a traction advantage, the 9-3 has more relevance. It offers neat, concept-car styling, a trim size and solid structure, but unpredictable throttle response and numb steering spoil what should be nonconformist fun.