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Saab 9-3 From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation , search Saab 9-3 Manufacturer Saab Automobile Production 1998–present Predecessor Saab 900 Class Compact executive car , Hot hatch , Sports sedan [ 1 ] The Saab 9-3 (not to be confused with the earlier Saab 93 ) is a compact executive car produced by the automaker Saab in Trollhättan , Sweden from 1998. The convertible (cabriolet) version was manufactured in Austria by Magna Steyr until 2010, when it was moved to Trollhättan. The 9-3 shares its platform with the Opel Vectra , and with the Cadillac BLS , which was made on the same assembly line up until 2009 in Sweden. The 9-3 is currently Saab's entry-level model; between 2005 and 2006 in North America, the Subaru Impreza -based Saab 9-2X was its entry-level model. Contents 1 Overview 2 First generation (1998-2002) 2.1 Saab Viggen 2.2 Engines 3 Second generation (2002-present) 3.1 2004 3.2 2005 3.3 2006 3.4 2007 3.5 2008 facelift 3.6 2009 3.7 2011 facelift 3.8 Engines [13] [14] [15] [16] [17] 3.9 Saab Turbo X 4 Awards and achievements 5 See also 6 Notes 7 External links [ edit ] Overview The car was badged as 9 3 . Saab however consistently advertises it as 9-3 , pronounced as "nine three". The Saab 9-3 was launched in 1998 essentially as a rebadged Saab 900 (1994-1998 model), and succeeded by a redesigned 9-3 in model year 2003. It is not to be confused with the Saab 93 , pronounced "ninety three", which was a car produced by Saab from 1955 to 1960. [ edit ] First generation (1998-2002) First generation Production 1998–2002 Assembly Trollhättan , Sweden (3-door Coupé and 5-door hatchback) Uusikaupunki , Finland ( Valmet Automotive ) (1999-2003 convertible and Viggen) Body style(s) 2-door convertible 3-door coupé 5-door hatchback Layout FF layout Platform GM2900 platform Engine(s) 2.0 L B204 I4 2.0 L B205 I4 2.0 L B205R I4 2.3 L B235R I4 2.2 L Turbodiesel I4 Transmission(s) 5-speed manual 4-speed automatic Wheelbase 2,605 mm (102.6 in) Length 1999-2000 Viggen & 2001-02: 4,630 mm (182.3 in) 1999-2000: 4,628 mm (182.2 in) 2001-02 Viggen: 4,640 mm (182.7 in) Width 1,712 mm (67.4 in) Height 5-door: 1,427 mm (56.2 in) Convertible: 1,422 mm (56.0 in) 2001-02 Viggen Hatchback: 1,415 mm (55.7 in) 2001-02 Viggen Convertible: 1,410 mm (55.5 in) Related Opel Vectra Saab 9-5 Saturn L-Series Saab 9-3 SE convertible (US) Saab 9-3 Anniversary convertible (Australia) The first generation 9-3, a substantially improved 'new-generation' Saab 900 was launched in 1998 for the 1999 model year. Saab claimed that 1,100 changes were made, including a revised suspension in an attempt to tighten up the handling characteristics of its predecessor, the Saab 900 (1994-1998 model). [ 2 ] It featured slightly sleeker styling with some models sporting a black rear spoiler and removed Saab's trademark centrally-mounted "snow flap". It was available as a three or five-door hatchback , and as a two-door convertible . It was the last small Saab to use the company's H engine . Notable improvements over the Saab 900 were improved ride and handling and substantially improved crash-worthiness with standard side impact airbags with head protection and active headrests. The Saab 9-3 along with the Saab 9-5 and the Volvo S70 were the first cars in the world to earn the maximum score in a side impact augmented by a pole test [ citation needed ] based on Euro NCAP testing. The 9-3 continued the Saab safety tradition of performing an Elk Test . The 9-3 was available with a new variant of the B204 engine (B204E, 154 hp (115 kW)), a low pressure turbo (LPT) engine based on the B204L used in the last generation Saab 900. For the U.S. market, all 9-3s were turbocharged petrol engines with the "full pressure turbo" (B204L, 185 hp (138 kW)) as the standard offering, and a "HOT" (B204R, 200hp) variant in the SE models for the 1999 model year. The 2000 model year saw a revision from SAAB's Trionic 5 to Trionic 7 engine management system. The first generation 9-3 was also the first Saab available with a diesel engine, an Opel sourced engine shared with the Opel Vectra . A Saab innovation is the ' Night Panel ', carried over from the Saab 900, which permits dousing of the instrument panel lighting, except for essential information, for less distraction when night driving. A total of 326,370 first generation 9-3s were built. U.S. Market M.S.R.P. (Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price) Without Options: [ 3 ] Model Year 9-3 3d Combi Coupe 9-3 5d Base 9-3 5d SE 9-3 Convertible 9-3 Convertible SE 1999 $25,900 $26,400 $31,700 $39,450 $42,995 2000 $25,900 $26,400 $31,895 $39,450 $42,995 2001 $26,495 $26,995 $32,595 N/A $39,995 2002 N/A N/A $27,995 N/A $39,995 1999-2002 Saab 9-3 Consumer Guide Expert Rating Summary [ 4 ] Category Grade Performance 7 Fuel Economy 5 Ride Quality 5 Steering/Handling/Braking 6 Quietness 5 Controls/Materials 6 Interior Room 7 Room/Comfort (rear) 6 Cargo Capacity 7 Value within Class 4 Total Score 58 Maximum of 10 points in each category Competitor scores out of 100 (from about the same years): 58 - Volkswagen Passat 56 - BMW 3-Series 52 - Toyota Camry 51 - Ford Focus 48 - Mazda 626 47 - Volvo S40 46 - Mercedes-Benz C-class 45 - Audi A4 [ edit ] Saab Viggen SAAB 9-3 Viggen A high-powered version of the Saab 9-3 was the 'Viggen' (Swedish: Thunderbolt ). It was named after the Saab 37 Viggen aircraft. It is no longer in production due to the 9-3 hatchback body style ending after 2002. It came with a turbocharged 2.3 L engine, (B235R) giving 225 bhp (168 kW; 228 PS) later 230 bhp (172 kW; 233 PS). Acceleration from 0–62 mph could be reached in 6.4 seconds and the top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (249 km/h). [ citation needed ] To handle the high power and performance the following elements were changed/modified: Heavy duty clutch and pressure plate, Stiffened and lowered springs, Firmer dampers, Stronger CV joints and driveshafts. To enable the front tyres to cope with the amount of torque available, the maximum torque was electronically limited. gear was limited to 184 lb·ft (249 N·m) gear was limited to 243 lb·ft (329 N·m) gear on got the full 258 lb·ft (350 N·m). Fewer than 3000 Viggens manufactured, of which only 500 units were produced for the UK market. Complements of SAAB USA: These numbers represent the total number of each body style Viggen imported into the USA: 1999: 3-door > 426 (All Blue) 2000: Convertible > 245, 3-door > 138, 5-door > 421 2001: Convertible > 738, 3-door > 129, 5-door > 285 2002: Convertible > 322, 3-door > 71, 5-door > 157 Totals: 1999 = 426, 2000 = 804 2001 = 1,152 2002 = 550 Totals: 3-door = 764, 5-door = 863, conv. = 1,305 In 1999, the Viggen was the first 9-3 with the Saab's own Trionic 7 engine management system, which makes 2,000,000 calculations every second from combustions temp, boost control, variable torque curves and many other critical engine processes. The 2001 model year introduced a Traction Control System (TCS) to the Viggen. In addition to extra power and torque, it also featured a special rear wing (increasing the downforce by 50%) requiring relocation of the radio antenna, aerodynamically designed bumpers and side skirts reducing the drag coefficient by 8%, specially bolstered and colored leather seats (available in four colors: black with black inserts (charcoal), black with blue inserts (deep blue), black with orange inserts (flame ochre), and tan with tan inserts, sportier suspension, bigger wheels, upgraded brakes, and other upgraded parts. The Viggen was only available with a five speed manual transmission, CD player, power moonroof, and (what were initially) Viggen-specific motorized and heated leather seats with the Viggen delta logo embossed in the backrest; these were later also available in the Aero model without the embossed Viggen logo. Some colors featured carbon-fibre interior trim from its introduction to the middle of the 2001 model year, when Saab substituted a less expensive printed gray pattern for the dash and standard trim for everything else. New Viggen buyers in the USA were treated to two days of advanced driving instruction at Road Atlanta and dined with Saab USA executives from nearby Norcross, Georgia. This program, operated by Saab and Panoz, was called Viggen Flight Academy and later transformed into the current SAAB Aero Academy. Some motoring journalists were critical of untamed torque steer in low gears. [ 5 ] [ edit ] Engines 2.0 L B204 I4 , 130 PS (96 kW) ECE (1998–1999) 2.0 L B204E (non-US) I4 , turbo LPT, 154 PS (113 kW) (1998–2000) 2.0 L B204 I4 , turbo, 185 PS (136 kW) (1998–1999) 2.0 L B205 I4 , turbo, 185 PS (136 kW) (2000–2002) 2.0 L B205E (non-US) I4 , LPT(light pressure turbo), 150 PS (110 kW) (2000–2002) 2.0 L B205R I4 , turbo, 205 PS (151 kW) (1999–2003) 2.3 L B235R I4 , turbo, 230 PS (170 kW) (1999–2002) 2.2 TiD I4 D223L 2171 cc, 115 PS (85 kW) 2.2 TiD I4 2171 cc,125 PS (92 kW) [ edit ] Second generation (2002-present) Second generation Production 2002–present Assembly Trollhättan , Sweden (sedan 2002-, wagon 2005- and convertible 2010-) Graz , Austria ( Magna Steyr ) (convertible 2003-2009) Body style(s) 2-door convertible 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon Layout FF layout (2002-) F4 layout (2008-) Platform GM Epsilon platform Engine(s) 1.8L Ecotec I4 16 valve 2.0L Ecotec I4 Turbocharged 2.8L LP1 V6 24 valve Turbocharged 1.9L I4 Turbodiesel 8 & 16 valve 2.2L I4 Turbodiesel 16 valve Transmission(s) 5-speed manual 6-speed manual 5-speed "sentronic" automatic 6-speed "sentronic" automatic Wheelbase 2,675 mm (105.3 in) Length 2003-07 Sedan: 4,635 mm (182.5 in) 2008-2009 Sedan: 4,646 mm (182.9 in) 2003-07 Convertible: 4,633 mm (182.4 in) 2008-2009 Convertible: 182.9 in (4646 mm) Turbo X & Wagon: 4,653 mm (183.2 in) Width Sedan: 1,753 mm (69.0 in) Convertible: 1,760 mm (69.3 in) Turbo X & Wagon: 1,763 mm (69.4 in) Height 2003-07 Sedan: 1,443 mm (56.8 in) 2008-present Sedan: 1,450 mm (57.1 in) 2003-07 Convertible: 1,433 mm (56.4 in) 2008-present Convertible: 56.6 in (1438 mm) 2003-07 Wagon: 1,540 mm (60.6 in) 2008-present Turbo X & Wagon: 1,496 mm (58.9 in) Curb weight 2008-2009: 1,410 to 1,690 kg (3,109 to 3,726 lb) [ 6 ] Related BAW C60 Fiat Croma Cadillac BLS Chevrolet Malibu Opel Insignia Opel Signum Opel Vectra Saturn Aura Saab 9-5 Mk2 The examples and perspective in this article deal primarily with the United States and do not represent a worldwide view of the subject . Please improve this article and discuss the issue on the talk page . (December 2010) The second-generation model was launched at the North American International Auto Show in early 2002. The new 9-3, like all Saabs, remained a front-wheel drive car. The most drastic change from the former generation was the elimination of the hatchback design. The second-generation 9-3 is available as a four-door sedan , a wagon (introduced late in 2005, known as the SportCombi, SportWagon or Sport-Hatch depending on the markets), and a two-door convertible . It includes a number of safety features, including innovations such as Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR II) to reduce whiplash and ReAxs, passive rear wheel steering to reduce understeering and passive toe-in under heavy braking. All U.S. market gas-powered variants featured a 2.0 L straight-4 engine derived from General Motors ' Ecotec family. There are three different versions of the turbocharged I4 , with the amount of turbo boost determining the power output. The 150 hp (110 kW) version (though two litre, it is called 1.8t) was standard in the non-U.S. market Linear form (trim-level). The 175 horsepower (130 kW) version (2.0t) was standard in U.S. market Linear or non-U.S. market Vector form, mated with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed Sentronic automatic , which allowed for shifting without a clutch pedal. The 210 horsepower 2.0T was available in both the Arc and Vector forms, and the same Sentronic transmission was available, though in the Vector, paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel were added. In 2003 Arcs and Vectors, the manual transmission was a 6-speed. The 9-3 and the Opel Vectra were the first of the global GM Epsilon platform , which was then lengthened to accommodate four new cousins, the Chevrolet Malibu/Malibu Maxx , the Pontiac G6 , and the Saturn Aura . A proprietary fiber-optic electric/electronic system, the possibility of AWD (exploited from 2008 on, dubbed Saab XWD ), and ReAxs as described above, are just a few of the features exclusive to the 9-3. [ edit ] 2004 2005-2007 Saab 9-3 convertible (US) Supposedly due to a request from Vector Aeromotive , the Vector form was replaced with the Aero in the United States. In addition, the Arc received the 5-speed manual in place of the 6-speed. 9-3 SportCombi [ edit ] 2005 United States versions were sold with 16" wheels standard (17" for the Aero) unlike the 15" wheels which were previously found in the Linear version. In the United States, but not in most countries, the 2005 was the last year of the Linear and Arc versions. [ edit ] 2006 A special "20 Years Edition Aero Convertible" for the American market was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January 2006 to celebrate 20 years since the introduction of the Saab 900 convertible . For 2006, the two optional engines were a 2.0 liter turbo 4 cylinder and a new 2.8 liter turbo 6 cylinder. The 4 cylinder option had 12.3 psi maximum turbo boost pressure and turned out 210 hp (160 kW), while the 6 cylinder had 8.7 psi boost and turned out 250 hp (190 kW). The 2.0 liter 16 valve turbo 4 cylinder model was marketed in the United States as the 2.0T, replacing the Linear and Arc models sold until the 2005 model year. The United States 2.0T version was similar to the 2005 Arc except for U.S. Linear wheels were used. The Linear and Arc versions continued to be sold in most other countries. In the middle of the 2006 model year, at least for cars made for the United States market, the trunk release button on the driver's door was eliminated, possibly to save costs. Cars made in the first half of 2006 have the trunk release mechanism mounted on the driver's door. After it was eliminated, the only way to open the trunk is to use the key fob (and the emergency release located inside the trunk for use by people who climb into the trunk ). [ edit ] 2007 The dashboard was completely revamped for 2007, with the Saab Information Display moved from its high mounted position to the main instrument binnacle, and a return to the look of the classic Saab 900 dash. The button-heavy climate control system disappeared, replaced by the Saab 9-5 climate control system, OnStar was re-introduced and required when Nav was ordered in North America, and the corporate GM head unit debuted, which allowed for satellite radio and MP3 CD capability. While the 2008 model is touted as all-new, the majority of under skin enhancements occurred for the 2007 model year. The suspension went from borderline harsh to firm, and the cabin was quieted considerably. Steel Gray was also replaced with Titan Gray as an exterior color choice. In the U.S. market, only the 210 hp 2.0 litre 16 valve turbo engine and the 250 hp 2.8 litre V-6 turbo were available. The manual transmission in the 2.0 model was changed from a 5-speed to a 6-speed. [ edit ] 2008 facelift 2008- Saab 9-3 sedan (US) Saab claims over 2000 changes were made to model year 2008 cars. The 2008 range, first presented at the Saab Festival in Trollhättan, Sweden (June 10, 2007) included new frontal styling inspired by the Saab Aero-X , new door panels, a new clamshell hood, and frosted rear lamps. Slight exterior modifications are available on the limited-edition XWD 280 horsepower (210 kW) 9-3 Turbo X, presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show (9/07). [ 7 ] The Turbo X made its North American debut at the New England Auto show in late November. [ 8 ] Saab also released an all-wheel drive version of the Aero, with the system dubbed " XWD ", in March 2008. [ edit ] 2009 2009- Saab 9-3X The 2009 9-3 series expands the trim levels while dropping the limited-edition Turbo X [ 9 ] sedan and wagon from the lineup. The 2.0T and Aero sedan and wagon models are now available with Saab's all-wheel drive(XWD). The convertible range continues to lack the all-wheel-drive option because of limited under-body space for the necessary componentry due to added structural bracing to compensate for the rigidity lost when eliminating the hard roof from the design of a car. The new Saab 9-3 is virtually unchanged from the 2008 model, which underwent subtle design and performance enhancements. [ 10 ] During 2009 the 9-3X was launched at the Geneva auto show. The 9-3X is a four wheel drive XUV version of the 9-3 SportCombi. [ 11 ] [ edit ] 2011 facelift The 9-3 will receive a facelift for the 2011 model year before the new 93 arrives in late 2012. The facelift will include minor work to the exterior and interior. The major changes will be in the engine range with a overall reduction in diesel and petrol engine fuel consumption of 12% and 7% respectively. [ 12 ] [ edit ] Engines [ 13 ] [ 14 ] [ 15 ] [ 16 ] [ 17 ] Note: diesel engines are not available in North America. Starting from late 2004 diesel engines are Fiat sourced common rail units. Model Years Engine and type Displ. Power Torque Turbocharger 1.8i 2004–2009 I4 16V Ecotec 1796 cc 90 kW (122 PS; 121 hp) @ 5800 rpm 167 N·m (123 lb·ft) @ 3800 rpm None 1.8t 2002–present I4 16V Ecotec 1998 cc 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp) @ 5500 rpm 240 N·m (180 lb·ft) @ 2000–3500 rpm Low-pressure 2.0t 2002–present I4 16V Ecotec 1998 cc 129 kW (175 PS; 173 hp) @ 5500 rpm 265 N·m (195 lb·ft) @ 2500–4000 rpm Mid-pressure 2.0 Turbo 2002–present I4 16V Ecotec 1998 cc 154 kW (209 PS; 207 hp) @ 5300 rpm 300 N·m (220 lb·ft) @ 2500–4000 rpm High-pressure 2.0 Turbo 2009–present I4 16V Ecotec 1998 cc 177 kW (241 PS; 237 hp) @ 5500 rpm 350 N·m (260 lb·ft) @ 2500 rpm High-pressure 2.8t V6 2005–2007 V6 24V LP1 2792 cc 169 kW (230 PS; 227 hp) @ 5500 rpm 320 N·m (240 lb·ft) @ 1800–4500 rpm Low-pressure 2.8T V6 2005–2007 V6 24V LP1 2792 cc 184 kW (250 PS; 247 hp) @ 5500 rpm 350 N·m (260 lb·ft) @ 1800–4500 rpm High-pressure 2.8T V6 2007–2008 V6 24V LP1 2792 cc 188 kW (256 PS; 252 hp) @ 5500 rpm 355 N·m (262 lb·ft) @ 1800–4500 rpm High-pressure 2.8T V6 2008–present V6 24V LP1 2792 cc 206 kW (280 PS; 276 hp) @ 5500 rpm 400 N·m (300 lb·ft) @ 2150 rpm High-pressure 1.8t BioPower 2007–present I4 16V Ecotec 1998 cc 129 kW (175 PS; 173 hp) @ 5500 rpm 265 N·m (195 lb·ft) @ 2500–4000 rpm Mid-pressure 2.0t BioPower 2007–present I4 16V Ecotec 1998 cc 147 kW (200 PS; 197 hp) @ 5500 rpm 300 N·m (220 lb·ft) @ 2500–4000 rpm High-pressure 1.9 TiD 2004–present I4 8V Z19DT 1910 cc 88 kW (120 PS; 118 hp) @ 4000 rpm 280 N·m (210 lb·ft) @ 2000–2750 rpm High-pressure 1.9 TiDS 2004–present I4 16V Z19DTH 1910 cc 110 kW (150 PS; 148 hp) @ 4000 rpm 320 N·m (240 lb·ft) @ 2000–2750 rpm High-pressure 1.9 TTiD 2007–present I4 16V Z19DTR 1910 cc 132 kW (179 PS; 177 hp) @ 4000 rpm 400 N·m (300 lb·ft) @ 2000–2500 rpm *1 370 N·m (270 lb·ft) @ 2000–2500 rpm *2 High-pressure twin turbo 2.2 TiD 2002–2004 I4 16V D223L 2171 cc 92 kW (125 PS; 123 hp) @ 4000 rpm 280 N·m (210 lb·ft) @ 1500 rpm High-pressure *1 For vehicles with manual transmission *2 For vehicles with automatic transmission [ edit ] Saab Turbo X Turbo X at Frankfurt Motor Show , 2007 Saab Turbo X debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt auto show. It was made to celebrate SAAB's 30 years of turbocharging. All Turbo X were offered in metallic jet black with matte grey trim. The Turbo X is SAAB's first production car with the XWD all-wheel drive system from Haldex Traction and eLSD. It is powered by a 2.8 litre V6 producing 280 PS (210 kW) mated to a six speed manual or automatic gearbox. It also has larger brakes as well as stiffer springs and shocks. The dash, shift lever and door panels have carbon fiber look and the turbo boost gauge draws its inspiration from the Saab 900 . [ 7 ] [ edit ] Awards and achievements 2005 , 2006 , 2007 , 2008 and 2009 Top Safety Pick, (USA), Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 2006 Wards 10 Best Engines 2.8L V-6 Turbo Top Safety Pick - Gold Award, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety , USA. 2004 Best Pick in side-impact crash tests, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety . The Sport Sedan repeats the "Best Pick" rating from last year's IIHS frontal offset crash test and is now the first car with standard safety equipment to receive a double "Best Pick" honour. Received highest rating, "Good" in the IIHS & Thatcham studies into the safety of car seats and head restraints, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety USA , Thatcham, Great Britain. Awarded Compact Executive Car of the Year, Auto Trader, Great Britain Voted Top Small Executive Car, Top Gear Magazine's New Car Buyer's Guide, Great Britain Awarded one of "10 best Cars of the Year", Hong Kong Car and Driver, Hong Kong Awarded Best European Intermediate/middle sedan, Car Plus Award, Hong Kong Recommended buy, US Consumer Reports magazine, USA Awarded maximum five star rating in EuroNCAP collision test, Saab 9-3 Convertible, EuroNCAP Named UK 's Most Secure Open-Top Car, British Insurance Car Security Awards, Great Britain Prestigious Sporting Open Top award, The Institute of Vehicle Engineers ( IVehE ), Great Britain 2002 Awarded maximum five star rating in EuroNCAP collision test, Saab 9-3 Sports Sedan, EuroNCAP Best Family Sedan, Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, PBS's MotorWeek television, USA Prestige Car of the Year, Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, Brisbane Courier Mail, Australia Best Buy, Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, Expressen , Sweden Best New Car, Saab 9-3 Arc Sport Sedan ($30,000 - $40,000 range), Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine, USA 1999 Among the Top Ten Cars of 1999. Fortune Magazine, USA 1998 One of the Top Ten Cars - Fortune Magazine, USA Among Top Ten Family Cars - Consumer's Review, USA [ edit ] See also Saab 9-5 BioPower: E85, E100 and Hybrid. [ edit ] Notes ^ “” (2009-09-02). "Saab 9-3 Reborn ad, 2007" . Youtube.com . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWG2nMW7UvQ . Retrieved 2010-10-15 .   ^ "Saab 9-3 history at The SaabMuseum.com - a comprehensive and up-to-date history of Saab cars" . Saabmuseum.com . http://www.saabmuseum.com/9-3/index.html . Retrieved 2010-03-23 .   ^ "Yearly Model Press Information (United States)" . saabnet.com . http://www.saabnet.com/tsn/models/ . Retrieved 2010-12-08 .   ^ "1999-2002 Saab 9-3: Overview - Consumer Guide Automotive" . Consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com . http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/1999-to-2002-saab-9-3.htm . Retrieved 2009-04-24 .   ^ "The ten worst cars we've ever tested" . evo.co.uk . http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/cargrouptests/204917/ten_worst_cars_tested.html . Retrieved 2008-04-06 .   ^ "Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi (Model Year 2008)" . saabmedia.net . Archived from the original on 2007-09-29 . http://web.archive.org/web/20070929015213/http://www.saabmedia.net/models/9-3/pressinfo/2008-SS-SC/specifications/index.html . Retrieved 2007-06-11 .   ^ a b "Automobile Magazine: 2008 Saab Turbo X - 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show" . Automobilemag.com . http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/2007_frankfurt/0708_2008_saab_turbo_x/ . Retrieved 2010-10-15 .   ^ New England Auto Show vehicle gallery preview. [ dead link ] ^ "2009 Model Year Changes for Saab Sedans, Wagons, Convertibles and SUVs - Inside Line" . Edmunds.com. 2008-10-03 . http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=132946 . Retrieved 2009-04-24 .   ^ "2009 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pictures and Prices" . U.S. News Rankings and Reviews . http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Saab_9-3/ . Retrieved 2009-04-24 .   ^ "Teknikens Värld: Saab 9-3X lanseras inom kort – Saab 9-5 kommer enligt schemat" . Teknikensvarld.se. 2008-11-21 . http://www.teknikensvarld.se/nyheter/081121-saab-93x-nya-95/index.xml . Retrieved 2010-10-15 .   ^ "Press Release: New Saab 9-3 Diesels Set 119 g/km CO2 Class Benchmark" . Saabsunited.com. 2010-09-08 . http://www.saabsunited.com/2010/09/press-release-new-saab-9-3-diesels-set-119-gkm-co2-class-benchmark.html . Retrieved 2010-10-15 .   ^ Saab 9-3 owner's manual, May 2006 (model year 2007) (Danish) ^ Saab 9-3 owner's manual, May 2007 (model year 2008) (Danish) ^ Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan owner's manual, June 2002 (model year 2003) (Danish) ^ EurotaxGlass's International AG. "Schwacke Car Index - Version Personenwagen SAAB - Saab 9-3 LIMOUSINE 4 Türen ab 06/2002" (in German) . http://www.schwacke.de/SP/PERSONENWAGEN/SAAB/SAAB%209-3/LIMOUSINE_4_TUEREN_(AB_06-2002).html . Retrieved November 19, 2009 .   ^ Saab. "Saab - Technische Daten" (in German) . http://www.saab.de/de/de/start#/Cars/9-3sport-sedan/facts/technical-data/ . Retrieved November 19, 2009 .   [ edit ] External links Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Saab 9-3 Saab official site Saab 9-3 Viggen Forum IIHS Saab 9-3 crash test IIHS Saab 9-3 Conv. crash test v   •   d   •   e « previous — Saab , road car timeline, 1980s–present Type 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 Compact 600 * 99 90 9-2X Mid-size 900 900 9-3 9-3 Convertible 900 900 9-3 9-3 Executive 9000 9-5 9-5 SUV 9-7X 9-4X *Rebadged Lancia model v   •   d   •   e Current owner Spyker Cars N.V. 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Request Brochure Test Drive Best Deals Normally I wouldn't bother you with my troubles, but I must say I felt rather strange when I picked up the 9-3X. It was the first time I had ever embarked on a test in a mood of such uncertainty that the manufacturer of the car in question would still be in existence by the end of it. As things turned out, by the time the car left me, Dutch sports car manufacturer Spyker had made a bid for Saab which at the time of writing seems to be regarded by current owner General Motors as suitable, though I hope that this news is more indicative of the company's future than the 9-3 itself is. The 9-3 is basically quite an old car, though the X version is a recent addition to the range, having gone on sale in the UK in August 2009. Available only as an estate, it's the 9-3 for people who want to be able to do some mild off-roading without going to the extent of buying an SUV. The 1.9 TTiD turbo diesel rides 20mm higher than standard, but the 2.0T petrol reviewed here is 15mm taller still and drives through all four wheels rather than just the front ones. The four-wheel drive system is the one that Saab calls XWD, and it has the ability to send 100% of the power to the front or rear wheels if necessary, though in most cases it will be shared out more equally. In the 9-3X, the system also features a limited slip differential which can apply up to 40% of whatever energy is being dealt with by the rear axle to the right or left wheel. This is all splendid, and when you consider that the engine has a maximum output of 207bhp you might be led to believe that the 9-3X is quite a sporty car as well as a moderately off-roadish one. Well, no. It's not that it can't go quickly, more that it simply doesn't want to. It is much happier if you are just pottering along and don't intend to use anything like the amount of power available unless an overtaking opportunity makes it prudent to do so. German cars of similar size almost invariably handle better than the Saab, and French ones have superior ride quality. If you're not in a hurry, the 9-3X is pleasant enough. It's certainly very comfortable (the seats are excellent) and remarkably high gearing means that it doesn't feel fussy on motorways. Manoeuvring can be a bit of a trial, though, since there are absolutely gigantic blind spots at the rear thanks to the idiotic lack of glass back there. Okay, rear parking sensors are fitted as standard, but that's not good enough from a company which famously considers safety to be an important part of car design. Speaking of safety, the last time Euro NCAP investigated a 9-3 with a solid roof was back in 2002, so the results are not directly comparable to those of more recent tests. They were considered impressive for the time, though, at least in terms of adult occupant protection. There are as many airbags as you might expect, and Saab also fits active headrests to the front seats in an effort to reduce the possibility of whiplash. ESP is also standard. Compared with the general run of 9-3s, the X is above-averagely equipped, with 17" five-spoke alloys wheels, heated front seats (and my, those were welcome), front foglights, dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, a colled glove box, cruise control and so on. The only option fitted to the test car was some extra leather on the seats, and frankly I could take that or leave it. Interior space is impressive if you're sitting in the front, but there's less room in the back than you might expect. And luggage capacity - with all the seats in place - of 419 litres is decent enough but nothing like class-leading. Once I had got over the disappointment of how clumsy the 9-3X is at anything above "oh, look at the lovely scenery" speeds, I came to like it to some extent. It badly needs replacing, though, and I hope the Spyker situation will lead to a more competitive and up-to-date 9-3 appearing in Saab showrooms in the not too distant future. Saab Gallery Saab Road Tests More Road Tests Request brochure All the choice and model options delivered straight to you. More info Request test drive Try this car before you buy - get a test drive from your local dealer! More info Find Best Price If you know the car you want, then it's time to find the best deal. More info Newsletter Please enter your details below: Your name Your email Sign up here and we'll keep you right up to date with all our latest news and reviews. Car search Search for information on your favourite model of car, including road tests and news. 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Among the many other possible examples of this, we have here the Saab 9-3. It owes a lot to the Vauxhall Vectra (both makes being owned by the leviathan that is General Motors), but from behind the wheel you would never guess that they shared any components at all. The Vectra feels like a big car, with the stodginess that that implies. The 9-3 seems much lighter, much sportier, much more manoeuvrable. An odd state of affairs, bearing in mind the histories of the two manufacturers. It also applies only up to a certain point. Drive a Vectra harder than normal and it will do its best to keep up. The 9-3, on the other hand, quickly reaches a point where the suspension seems unable to keep up with what's going on. The handling becomes very uncertain, and your route over the next twenty yards appears to be dictated more by the way the car is pointing than by what you do with the steering wheel. Among the 9-3s we have tested so far, this is of greatest concern in the car under discussion here. It's the 2.0t, which has the same two-litre light-pressure turbo engine as fitted to the 1.8t (yes, we're a bit confused by those designations too). The difference is that the 2.0t is more highly tuned, with 173bhp rather than 147bhp. That's quite a lot of power to deal with when you're not absolutely confident about directional control, and although the 2.0t isn't as bad as the 1.8t in this respect, I still feel it's something Saab should be looking into. Let It Find Its Own Pace   As long as you don't push it too hard, the 2.0t is a very smooth runner, with fine ride quality. It's usefully rapid in a straight line, too, though if you use its potential on anything like a regular basis the official fuel economy figures quickly become a thing of the past. The combined test result is 33.2mpg, but I doubt many people would be able to achieve that on a regular basis. The test car was in Vector trim, the highest spec of the four available for the range. 17" alloy wheels are standard, as are leather/cloth upholstery and nicely supportive sports front seats. There is also a certain amount of metal-effect chrome trim dotted around inside. There's lots of room for front seat occupants and for luggage, but rear seat room has never been one of Saab's strong points, and although current 9-3s are better than last-generation ones in this respect the new car still isn't a great way of transporting four adults. As is the Swedish way, passenger protection is very impressive, though driving a Saab no longer feels like you are at the wheel of a tank. The structural safety is less apparent than it used to be, though I like knowing that it's still there. One minor niggle - and it applies to every manual transmission 9-3 we've tried so far - is that it's all too easy to stall the car when you're shuffling about at low speeds. This quickly becomes tiresome in car parks, or if, like me, there's a compulsory three-point turn to be made every time you venture from the front door to the outside world. It can be sorted out with lots of revs and a large dose of clutch slip, but personally I'd rather Saab altered the necessary settings so you don't have to do this. I quite like the 9-3, but I'm not sure I'd want to live with one. There is so much quality opposition in the class that I suspect it will appeal mainly to existing Saab owners rather than achieving much in the way of conquest sales. Price: £21,595 Capacity: 1988cc Power: 173bhp 0-62mph: 8.5 seconds Maximum speed: 135mph Economy: 42.8mpg extra urban, 33.2mpg combined CO2 emissions: 206g/km Insurance: Group 14 Saab figures. Second opinion: One thing that certainly hasn't changed is the impressive build quality, thanks to the use of high-standard materials and an insistence on proper fit and finish. What with the duplicate audio controls on the steering wheel, and so on, there seem to be a lot more lights left on than there used to be, when you decide to go for "black panel" instrument non-illumination. This certainly feels like a car designed to be at its best when driven at what the 1950s Birkett Dicing Analysis would reckon as seven-tenths (one stage up from "slowest speed practised by One of Us") but it's still a class act. I'd say a huge amount of luggage space rather than just "lots". Interesting that Saab owners wanted the now electronic ignition key to stay down by the gear lever, although you no longer have to go into reverse before taking the key out.  Ross Finlay . 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