Bioethanol, diesel or petrol - with the 9-3 range Saab offers a choice that reflects today’s real-world needs.
Innovation has always been ingrained into the Saab DNA so it comes as no surprise that the revised 9-3 range is the fi rst available with engines running on either petrol, diesel or renewable bioethanol (E85).
The Swedish manufacturer (part of General Motors’ Premium Brands division) estimates a reduction of up to 80 per cent in fossil fuel-based CO2 emissions when driving on E85.
The Saab 9-3 BioPower is a fl exible fuel vehicle which can run on a mix of 85 per cent ethanol and 15 per cent petrol – or petrol in any combination from the one tank.
Running on E85, the 2.0-litre turbocharged Saab 9-3 BioPower engine delivers maximum power of 147kW of power and 300Nm of torque – an extra 18kW and 35Nm more than the equivalent petrol engine.
Available in sedan, wagon and convertible models, the Saab 9-3 BioPower carries a $1,000 price premium over equivalent petrol models.
Saab offers two diesel powerplants – the 110 kW 1.9-litre TiD and the new 1.9TTiD with a two-stage turbocharger that boosts power to 132kW. The new diesel is only available in top-spec Aero versions of sedan and wagon models.
As running changes go, visually this is a major one – in the 9-3 sedan, 70 per cent of the external body panels and parts are new. All models have new panels forward of the A-pillar and flared side sill extensions are standard across the range.
Entry level Saab models are called ‘Linear’, midspec is the ‘Vector’ and range-topping is the ‘Aero’. Saab calls its distinctive wagons ‘SportCombi’.
Inside, all 9-3 models offer lots of space and a stylish ambience - some trim and switchgear upgrades were included in the recent facelift. The seats are ergonomic winners – comfortable without being couches, supportive without being uncomfortable and they look good.
Unlike many European convertibles, the soft-top 9-3 actually provides a useable rear seat but – like most of its rivals – when the roof is stowed, boot storage capacity suffers. It’s a compromise convertible enthusiasts are familiar with, but on those sunny days, with the top down cruising down your favourite road…
Saab has an enviable safety reputation and the 9-3 boasts six airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control to name just a few. In European crash testing, the 9-3 performed well, securing a five-star rating.
There is a lot to like about all Saab vehicles and the 9-3 is no exception. Priced from $43,400, the 9-3 lineup represents reasonable value-for-money – it’s high-tech, feature-packed, offers good build quality, is strong on safety and has that quirkiness that makes Saab an interesting automotive manufacturer.
