The 9-3 is an appealing compact sedan, with sleek styling and relatively affordable pricing. A choice of two turbocharged engines 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), or 6-speed manual or automatic (Aero). Value-conscious customers will prefer the base 2.0T due to its significantly lower price. The 9-3 Aero does have a more powerful V-6, sport 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.