From the rear, the 9-3 looks like many other cars on the road, which is a shame as it does not have as much of a presence as previous models. Nonetheless it's a perfectly pleasing look that should offend nobody.

The side profile shows a surprising wedge shape with the lower edge of the side windows picking up the slope of the hood and following it through to the high trunk line at the rear. It makes the car look more like a coupe than a regular three-box sedan. Black trim around the windows as well as black rubber bump strips along the doors and bumpers help make the car look sleeker. Big oval-shaped door handles are an integral part of the design.

Another unique feature of the 9-3 is a lack of key holes in those door handles. Yes that's right, Saab has done away with a key for entering the car. Instead one has to rely on the remote key fob. But don't worry, if it ceases to function there is a back up key buried in the key fob and a hidden keyhole in the driver's door only.