The V6 delivers all the punch these cars need, with 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque from 2000-4500 rpm. Saab says the 9-3 Aero SportCombi we drove is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds flat. The big torque is more than adequate for those urgent passes on two-lane roads and for getting up to merging speeds on highway on-ramps.

If you really like doing your own shifting, go with either one of the manual transmissions, but we don't recommend it. The longish clutch throw takes some getting used to and the six-speed in the Aero feels a little rubbery, but you'll save yourself $1,350. If you commute, get the six-speed automatic. The fingertip controls on the Aero models add to the fun in every day driving.

Summary

The Saab 9-3 is a delight to drive. The SportCombi is a nice combination of sportiness and hauling function in a pretty, modern wrapper that offers nearly 60 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat flopped out of the way. The high-output V6 engine is a hoot to drive, with plenty of low-down torque, and highway mileage across the line varies from 27 to 31 miles per gallon. The current 9-3 manages to remain a Saab yet has no really bad manners or habits.

NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Jim McCraw filed this report from Dearborn, Michigan.

Model Line Overview

Model lineup:Saab 9-3 2.0T Sport Sedan ($25,900); Aero Sport Sedan ($31,900); 2.0T Convertible ($36,500); Aero Convertible ($41,900); 2.0T SportCombi ($26,900); Aero SportCombi ($32,900)

Engines:210-hp 2.0-liter dohc 16v turbocharged inline-4; 250-hp 2.8-liter dohc 24v turbocharged V-6

Transmissions:5-speed manual; 6-speed manual; 6-speed automatic

Safety equipment (standard):ABS, electronic traction control (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), mechanical Brake Assist, dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, and curtain airbags, active front-seat head restraints, automatic front seatbelt pre-tensioners, OnStar telematics

Safety equipment (optional):automatic pop-up rear roll bar on convertible

Basic warranty:4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled in:Trollhattan, Sweden; Graz, Austria