The 9-3 SportCombi looks much nicer than its name suggests. In fact, the little 9-3 wagon is one of the best looking compact wagons on the market. A choice of two turbocharged powerplants is available: a 210-bhp 2.0L I-4, or a 250-bhp 2.8L V-6. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic (2.0T SportCombi), or 6-speed automatic (Aero SportCombi). Value-conscious customers will prefer the base 2.0T SportCombi due to its significantly lower price. The 9-3 Aero SportCombi does have a more powerful V-6, sport-tuned suspension, and 17-inch alloy wheels, but at a significant price premium.

The 9-3 receives numerous styling changes for 2008 featuring all-new front-end styling. A new AWD Aero model has been announced for the sedan and wagon variants. A limited-edition Turbo X model features a turbocharged 6-cylinder and all-wheel-drive.