[Lucky]

I did the need-a-new DD this spring... near the top of my list was the new Saab 9-3SS (Arc or Vector). I was pretty set on leasing the 9-3SS when I decided to try the 9-5. I was suprised how much more substantial the 9-5 felt and how well it rode while still handling well and being fun to drive. I ended up buying a certified pre-owned 2000 9-5 for about 2/3's the cost of a new 9-3SS and have full Saab bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage until 4/2006 or 100k miles!

If you do go the 9-3SS route, I suggest: 1) LEASE (do not buy), 2) at end of lease, if you absolutely love the car and want to keep it another couple of years, then negotiate down the buy-back price (most are able to currently get $1000 to $2000 below the lease residual) and then ask your dealer to certify the car for the CPO warranty!