Four-seat convertibles and Saabs seem to go together like Sweden and frigid winters. Since 1985, Saab hasn't been without a four-seat convertible in its lineup. They've gained notoriety in on-screen performances such as 'Sideways' and 'Seinfeld,' where the main characters chose Saab convertibles.

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For 2008, the 9-3 convertible gets an updated look based loosely on a series of show cars and previewed on the larger 9-5 sedan since 2006. Two models are offered, the base 2.0T and the higher-performance Aero.

Saab enthusiasts gripe that the 9-3 is a bit watered down with General Motors parts compared to its predecessors, but it remains a fairly unique vehicle compared to its competition. An ignition between the front seats, a wrap-around dashboard, numerous safety features and turbocharged power make it a very different proposition from the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series convertibles with which it competes.

All models feature a thickly padded power-folding soft-top with a glass window and a defroster (what else would you expect from a country where it's below freezing for half of the year), electronic stability control, leather seats, OnStar telematics and a six-speed manual transmission as standard.

The base 2.0T features a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder that puts out 210 horsepower and 221 lb-ft. of torque. A five speed automatic with a manual gate is optional.

A Premium Package includes a reverse-sensing system, memory driver's seat and mirrors, wood interior trim, fog lights and Xenon headlamps. A Cold Weather Package adds heated seats and integral headlamp washers. A navigation system and an in-dash CD changer are also available, as are 17' wheels with performance tires.

The Aero adds the Premium Package as standard, as well as the CD changer, a lowered and stiffened suspension and 17' wheels. It also features a 2.8 liter turbocharged V8 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. A six speed automatic with shift 'paddles' on the steering wheel is optional, rather than the 2.0T's five speed.

The Aero also includes a few styling upgrades, including a bodykit with visible exhaust outlets and a faux diffuser, aggressively bolstered seats and brushed aluminum interior trim.

A new option for both is premium leather upholstery, which covers every surface of the seats in upgraded leather.

The 9-3 convertible is assembled by Magna Steyr in Austria.