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2006 Saab 9-3

New Saab 9-3 SportCombi:Satisfying Wants and Meeting Needs

The new Saab 9-3 SportCombi takes Saab into the premium, mid-size wagon segment for the first time by combining distinctive design with sporty driving dynamics as an alternative to the qualities of a conventional wagon.

The strong, compact proportions of the 9-3 SportCombi are a bold reaffirmation of Saab's tradition for designing cars that are sporty in character and versatile in use. With cohesive five-door styling and a muscular, 'hewn from solid' stance, it has a clear, stand-out identity within the 9-3 Sport Sedan and Convertible range

The range-topping Aero model is unique to the segment in offering turbocharged, six cylinder performance and leads a comprehensive model line-up focused on synthesizing sporty appeal and performance with wagon functionality.

The 9-3 SportCombi features all-new bodywork from the B-pillar rearwards, including doors, the rear seat and a well-proportioned cargo deck, while retaining the frontal and interior styling of the Sport Sedan, together with its wheelbase and outstanding chassis dynamics.

Due to go on sale from September, the 9-3 SportCombi and will appeal to customers who require the versatility of a wagon without compromising their desire for driving pleasure. The model line-up includes six gasoline and two Euro 4 compliant diesel engine options. Highlights include:

· Fresh five-door styling offering distinct alternative to conventional wagon design

· Top-of-the-line Aero with new aluminum 250 bhp/184 kW 2.8V6 Turbo engine

· Surprisingly spacious cargo deck with useful load-carrying features

· Sporty, fun-to-drive chassis with unique ReAxs real wheel steer characteristic

Last year, Europe's growing premium mid-size wagon segment reached a quarter of a million units, with diesel engines accounting for 70 per cent of sales. Building on Saab's reputation for sporty, versatile design and offering strong diesel powertrain options, the new 9-3 SportCombi is poised to open up major new sales opportunities for Saab among conquest and existing customers.

Although retail prices are not yet finalized, each variant is expected to cost slightly more than the equivalent model in the Sport Sedan range, the price differential being similar to that between the 9-5 Wagon and Sedan ranges.

'The 9-3 SportCombi includes the first turbocharged application of GM's new global V6 engine architecture,' says Carl-Peter Forster, President GM Europe. 'It will spearhead Saab's entry into Europe's premium, mid-size wagon segment, where we expect the SportCombi range as a whole to establish a strong presence.'

Peter Augustsson, Saab Automobile President and CEO, says: 'Although the SportCombi is a natural extension of the 9-3 range, it has a fresh character all of its own. In the tradition of the Saab brand, it is not simply a 'me too' type of product.

'Its progressive design and dynamic talents are intended to resolve any conflict between the rationality of need and the passion of desire. Customers will see it as a car that meets the demands of their lifestyle while still satisfying their desire for a sporty, fun-to-drive experience.'

Exterior Design

With a striking, wedge-like profile and Saab 'signature' styling cues, the close-coupled proportions of the 9-3 SportCombi are a cohesive statement of its dynamic performance and driver-orientated appeal.

· Sporty, dynamic five-door bodystyle. Inheriting the 'combi-coupe' genes of the first Saab 99 Turbo, the Saab 9-3 SportCombi has a clear identity of its own. The purposeful styling establishes a fresh look, much more than simply a wagon derivative of the sedan.

· Distinctive alternative to conventional wagon design. The SportCombi's compact proportions, its raked rear screen and the short rear overhang, with a small glass area behind the C-pillar, distinguish it from traditional wagon formats.

· Saab 'signature' styling cues. The wedge-like profile with its rising belt-line; the 'hockey stick' shape in the D-pillar; the single side window graphic with disguised B and C-pillars and the oval-shaped door handles.

· Dramatic rear quarter styling. Large, frosted rear light lenses (colored for US market) mounted high on forward angled D-pillars emphasize 'fastback' rear styling.

· Integrated rear spoiler at the top of the steeply raked tailgate, extends and visually lowers the profile of the roofline to the top of the rear light units.

· Sweeping frontal styling. The gentle curvature of the front of the car, including the Saab grille and the neat headlamp/indicator units, perfectly matches the traditional wraparound shape of the windshield.

· 'Hewn from solid' appearance reinforced by color-keyed side sills and front and rear bumper moldings for Arc and Vector variants. Side sill flares and bumper extensions for Aero. Choice of 16, 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels.

Aerodynamics

The aerodynamics of the 9-3 SportCombi are optimized for 'real world' road conditions, just as Saab has developed its ‘real-life‘ safety philosophy. High speed stability in varying wind and weather conditions, low wind noise and the effective sealing of doors and windows are as important as seeking a low co-efficient of drag.

· Zero lift forces, front and rear. First Saab to achieve zero lift levels at both axles, assisted by the aerodynamic performance of the integrated rear roof spoiler.

· Class-competitive 0.33 Cd. The 'combi-coupe' shapes cleaves the air efficiently for good touring fuel consumption

· Excellent high-speed stability, including pitch sensitivity under braking and yaw responses to cross-winds at different speeds and angles, a main development priority.

· Efficient airflow management over, around, through and under the car. Rear airflow separation reduces turbulence and wake size; rear edge of the hood lid ‘kicks up' to smooth the passage of air on to and around windscreen and A-pillars; aerodynamically-shaped lower rear suspension link reduces wind resistance and minimizes accumulation of road grime on the wheel rims.

Powertrain

The outstanding chassis dynamics of the 9-3 SportCombi are matched by an impressive powertrain line-up: six gasoline engine options, including the launch of a new 2.8V6 Turbo; two diesel engines and five or six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes. All turbo engines deliver Saab 'signature' strong low and mid-range torque.

· New aluminum 2.8V6 Turbo producing 250 bhp/184 kW, exclusive to top-of-the-line Aero, or 230 bhp/169 kW in Arc and Vector variants (EU only). 24-valves, DOHC, variable valve timing, twin-scroll turbocharger feeding both cylinder banks. Hydroformed stainless steel exhaust manifolds with air injection for quick cold start warm-up.

· Aluminum 2.0 four cylinder turbos offering 150 bhp/110 kW, 175 bhp/129 kW or 210 bhp/155 kW. Balancer shafts and dual-mass flywheel for greater running refinement.

· 1.9TiD engines with 120 bhp/88 kW (8-valve) and 150 bhp/ 110 kW (16-valve). Common rail, direct, multiple injection, VNT turbocharger and maintenance-free particulate filter. Euro 4 compliant.

· Naturally-aspirated 1.8i engine with 122 bhp/90 kW and variable length intake manifold. Available in all specifications, except Aero, for wide customer choice.

· Automatic transmissions with Saab Sentronic sequential manual shift and optional steering wheel controls. Six-speed units available for both 2.8V6 Turbo engines and 150 bhp/110 kW 1.9TiD. '5+2' variant, with two intermediate gears on kickdown, for 210 bhp/155 kW engine.

· Six-speed manual transmissions standard for both 2.8V6 Turbo and 1.9TiD engines, optional for 210 bhp/155 kW gasoline engine. Cable linkage for improved gearchange quality.

Interior Design and Features

Like its exterior, the interior design of the 9-3 SportCombi reflects styling themes from previous Saab models. The driver-focused elements first seen on the Sport Sedan are supported by versatility features, such as a surprisingly large cargo deck to facilitate the active sports and leisure pursuits of owners. An eye-catching, chrome handle in the floor is aircraft-shaped, denoting Saab's aviation heritage.

· Adaptable cargo handling with wide-opening tailgate; low floor; quick-fold and 60/40 split rear seat-back with ski-hatch; optional folding front passenger seat-back; load dividers and cargo nets.

· Surprisingly spacious and well proportioned load area. Compact rear suspension design allows useful space free from intrusions. Rear seat up/down volume 419/1273 liters (VDA).

· Innovative TwinFloor stowage facility. Middle section of floor hinges upwards transversely and slots in place after pulling aircraft-shaped handle. Provides support for convenient location for shopping bags etc. in a recessed sub-floor, easily secured by a cargo net.

· Two-position retractable rear cargo net can be easily secured behind rear seat-back or front seat-backs for adaptable protection against shifting loads.

· ‘Profiler' customization. A wide range of functions can be pre-set according to personal preference including: automatic climate control, clock/alarm, speed scale illumination, parking assistance, rain sensitive wipers and anti-theft alarm. Easy to use, with selections highlighted by single, rotating/push button and on-screen prompts.

· ComSense functionality minimizes potential for driver distraction through 'dynamic workload management', briefly suppressing in-car warning messages/phone calls when a moment of high driver workload is detected by the operation of the indicators or heavy braking. Includes Night Panel instrument illumination dimming to reduce visual ‘clutter'.

· Dual-zone Automatic Air Conditioning allows different temperature settings for left or right hand side of interior. Includes an automatic airflow balance function to compensate for temperature changes if one side of the car is in direct sunlight.

· Infotainment systems include DVD/GPS satellite navigation with large 5.8-inch color monitor, Bluetooth™-prepared integrated GPRS telephone, wireless connection to a Bluetooth-qualified headset, WAP browser, Advanced Voice Recognition (AVR), MP3 player input socket.

· Choice of three modular audio systems with 150 to 300 watts playing power and up to 12 speakers, including unique installation of 10-inch sub-woofer in spare wheel storage well.

· Choice of three interior 'forms' or specifications: Linear, Arc and Vector, plus ‘Aero' sporting flagship. Each with ‘light room' (parchment) or ‘dark room' (gray) color theme.

Chassis, Steering and Brakes

The 9-3 SportCombi inherits the outstanding ‘fun-to-drive' chassis dynamics of the Sport Sedan. It delivers a high level of driver involvement that challenges the class benchmark and concedes nothing to its functionality as a practical, five-door car. Electronic driver aids include a new ESP Plus with Hill Start Assist, standard with 2.8V6 Turbo.

· Saab ReAxs, a unique rear wheel steer characteristic. The kinematics of the rear suspension are tuned for a unique rear wheel steer response giving optimum handling and stability.

· Four-link independent rear suspension. High lateral stiffness for stability and grip with longitudinal compliance for ride comfort. Its compact design allows a spacious load area free from intrusion.

· Front suspension by MacPherson struts with lower A-arms mounted on a hydroformed sub-frame. High lateral bushing stiffness for good steering response and precision; high longitudinal compliance for ride comfort.

· Low mounted steering rack gives excellent feel and precision with progressive power assistance and fast responses. Electro-hydraulic system with 1.8i and 1.9TiD engines.

· Three disc brake sizes according to engine power. Excellent high speed braking stability with automatic rear wheel 'toe-in' through ReAxs geometry.

· Braking and stability aids fitted as standard: four channel ABS, TCS, MBA (Mechanical Brake Assist), CBC (Cornering Brake Control) and EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution).

· New generation Saab-tuned ESP and ESP Plus. Optional, very progressive ESP functions almost imperceptibly. ESP Plus fitted as standard with 2.8V6 Turbo engines and includes HSA (Hill Start Assist) for manual transmission, automatically preventing roll back.

Body structure and Electrical systems

The 9-3 SportCombi benefits from the stiffest five-door body structure yet produced by Saab, providing the solid foundation on which its sporty handling, quiet ride, refinement and outstanding safety qualities are built. A multiplex digital signal network, including the use of fiber optics, ensures the fast and efficient control of major functions.

· High torsional rigidity - 21,000 Nm/degree of deflection. Despite large tailgate opening, only 6.6 per cent less than Sport Sedan. Use of FEM design techniques and tailored blanks in construction reduces unnecessary weight and concentrates strength where needed.

· Structural 'rings' around C and D-pillars include transverse beams in floor and roof to compensate for loss of sedan cross bracing. 'Rings' linked longitudinally by six beams in rear bodywork and base of C-pillars further reinforced.

· 60 per cent of bodyweight in high strength or ultra high strength steel, mainly in central passenger safety cage where all main beams have closed sections for additional strength.

· Single 'monoside' body pressings accommodate inset-mounted doors for better sealing and finer gap tolerances.

· Deformable crash boxes behind front bumper minimize body damage in low speed impacts up to 15 kph.

· Multiplexing for entire electrical and electronic network with databus transmission for control of powertrain, chassis, body, ‘infotainment', telematics, navigation and climate and comfort systems.

· Fiber optics for all 'infotainment' and navigation. Large 25 Mbytes per second capacity 50 times greater than dual wire bus. DVD-based navigation, GPRS integrated phone and Bluetooth connectivity.

· LEDs for rear lighting give greater reliability, lower energy consumption and faster illumination for brake lights. Default 'off' setting for rear fog light.

· Powerful windshield washing system operates through six jets at 3.5 bar pressure, twice normal power. Driver adjustment for sensitivity of rain-sensing function.

Safety

Saab has a long tradition of successful work with car safety and Saab cars consistently show well in real-life accident surveys, often being ranked best in their segment. In EuroNCAP crash tests, the 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-3 Convertible have already achieved a maximum five-star rating.

· Database covering more than 6,100 real-life accidents involving Saab cars used in computer simulations and crash testing to replicate what happens in real accidents on real roads.

· Strong steel safety cage helps protect passenger compartment. Fabricated mainly from high strength steel, with beam sections completely closed for additional strength. Protected by deformable front structure with three load paths and wide bumper beam to spread impact forces.

· Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR) for front seats help to prevent serious neck injury in rear-end collisions. Effectiveness demonstrated by crash investigation findings and independent tests.

· Side impact protection with 'pendulum' movement of lower B-pillar, designed to engage side sills and door beams as an integrated structure.

· Roof-rail airbags to help provide occupant head protection throughout an entire crash sequence, including potential roll-over Front seat-mounted side airbags help provide thorax protection.

· Sophisticated sensing for airbag/seat-belt deployment, including two-stage adaptive front airbags, pre-tensioning of seatbelts in side impacts and wearer reminder system.

Ownership, Security and Accessories

The excellent build and materials quality of the 9-3 SportCombi is reflected in its competitively low cost of ownership, including servicing, repairs and insurance. Security systems include all measures that are proven to be effective. Thoughtful operational features and accessories make everyday use of the SportCombi easy, convenient and rewarding.

· Flexible service intervals related to car usage patterns. Maximum interval up to every two years, or 30,000 kms, for all gasoline and diesel variants. Also 10 year anti-perforation warranty.

· Reduced accident repair bills and insurance costs with frontal bodywork collision protection up to 8 kph through ‘self-repairing' bumpers and up to 15 kph with deformable ‘crash boxes'. Front wings bolted for efficient removal and replacement, main wiring connections protected.

· 'State of the art' security co-developed with insurance companies. 9-3 Sport Sedan already has maximum five star rating for 'theft of vehicle' protection and four stars for 'theft from vehicle' by UK Thatcham insurance research center.

· Anti intrusion measures include: 'freewheeling' and shielded door locks, deadbolts, electronically 'married' audio equipment and security marking of components.

· Anti car theft measures include: immobilizer with electrical steering column lock and ECM disablement, encrypted rolling 'start' code and firewalls to prevent access with scanning devices.

· Sophisticated alarm system for doors, hood and tailgate with 'tilt' and ultrasonic interior motion sensing, plus glass break sensors for all rear windows and separate, hidden power battery.

· Many 'convenience' features make living with the new 9-3 SportCombi as easy as possible, eg. extensive Profiler personalization menu, 'smart' door mirrors that automatically fold out, automatic windshield washer fluid saver.

· Range of design and lifestyle-orientated accessories including sporty bodystyling additions, roof rails, roof racks, roof boxes, TwinFloor and SmartSlot accessories.

by GM Corporation

by Saab

SAAB DEBUTS 9-3 SPORTCOMBI MIDSIZE AND TURBO V-6 WAGON FOR 2006

New for 2006

* SportCombi premium midsize wagon

* Turbo V-6 engine for all 9-3 Aero models: 250 horsepower (186.4 kw) and 258 lb.-ft. torque (350 Nm)

* Linear and Arc sedan and convertible models merged into a single base model

* Aero models receive 17-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels with all-season tires

* Body color door handles on all models

Saab is in the midst of the most aggressive new product development offensive in its 58-year history, and the all- new Saab 9-3 SportCombi is an essential part of an expanding portfolio. The SportCombi moves Saab into the premium, midsize wagon segment for the first time by combining distinctive design, sporty driving dynamics and the functionality of a five-door.

Its strong, compact proportions reaffirm Saab's tradition of sporty, versatile cars, and its cohesive five-door styling and solid, muscular stance clearly mark the SportCombi as a member of the 9-3 family.

The SportCombi, launching in the fourth quarter of 2005, will appeal to customers who need the versatility of a wagon, including smart load-carrying features and a generously proportioned cargo area, without compromising their desire for driving satisfaction.

Also for 2006, Saab merges the 9-3 Linear and Arc into a single base model; the 9-3 Aero receives a new 250-horsepower 2.8L V-6 Turbo engine; the Aero range gets new 17-inch wheels and tires; all sedan and convertible models now have body color door handles and the convertible has standard leather seating. The sedan and SportCombi now offer red walnut trim as part of the Premium Package.

9-3 SportCombi

Like the rest of the 9-3 range, the SportCombi is designed to deliver a unique, fun-to-drive experience that sets the standard for its class. I n 2004, Saab sold more than 27,000 9-3 models in the U.S. , including more than 6,100 convertibles.

The newest 9-3 SportCombi carries on the Saab tradition of five-door models that began in 1959 with the Saab 95 Wagon. In 1973, Saab launched another landmark design with the innovative Saab 99 Combi Coupe. Of the more than 500,000 Saabs on the road in the U.S. today, nearly half are hatchbacks.

The top-of-the-line, high-performance Aero SportCombi model features an all-new turbocharged aluminum 2.8L V-6 engine that makes 250 horsepower (186.4 kw) and 258 lb.-ft. (350 Nm) of torque. A 6-speed manual gearbox comes standard, and a 6-speed Sentronic automatic with steering wheel controls is available. The SportCombi can also be ordered with Saab's 210 horsepower (157 kw) in-line 4-cylinder turbo.

With a wedge-like profile and Saab signature styling cues, the close-coupled proportions of the SportCombi include useful load-carrying features and a surprisingly spacious cargo area.

The exterior also offers a sporty, distinctive alternative to conventional wagon proportions, with the traditional Saab 'hockey stick' beltline, fastbackrear quarter styling, steeply raked taillight lenses and LED bulbs.

The 9-3 SportCombi has zero lift levels at both axles (0.00 Clf and 0.00 Clr). The car has an excellent drag coefficient of 0.33, impressive high-speed stability, and a standard integrated rear roof spoiler.

Inside, the main cargo area floor lifts to divide the space into two separate sections and to reveal additional storage in the recessed sub-floor.

The Saab 9-3 SportCombi will have an MSRP of under $30,000.

9-3 Sedan and Convertible

For 2006, the sedan and convertible Linear and Arc models have been merged into a single base model. This model features a 2.0L four-cylinder turbo engine with 210 horsepower (157 kw), twin 5-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, a power driver's seat, body color rocker panels and bumper skirts, and an infotainment audio system with 150 watts and seven speakers.

The 9-3 Aero model features the new 250-horsepower (186.4 kw) 2.8L V-6 Turbo engine used on the SportCombi, and a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

The Aero model also receives 17-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels with 235/45 R17 all-season tires. Both sedan and convertible models also have body color door handles for 2006.

With a steeply raked windshield, wedge-like profile and short front and rear overhangs, all the 9-3 models convey a sense of movement even while standing still. The shape of the windows combines with the sleek, integrated headlights and grille to emphasize the distinctive Saab identity.

The 9-3 lineup is the product of the most exhaustive development program in chassis dynamics undertaken by Saab. The kinetics of the rear suspension, for example, are tuned for a unique rear-wheel-steer response to attain optimum handling and stability. The four-link independent rear suspension with high lateral stiffness adds stability and grip; longitudinal compliance enhances ride comfort.

The Saab 9-3 model lineup is built from 'the driver outward.' That means the cabin ergonomics, instrumentation, controls and seating position are all developed from the driver's perspective. As a result, the advanced safety features benefit all who use these vehicles.

Saab engineers developed the architecture for the 9-3 Convertible concurrently with the Sport Sedan and SportCombi, enabling them to incorporate their demanding requirements for an open-top car from the very start. The result is a premium convertible with a level of structural integrity, build quality and driving refinement that positions it at the top of its class.

New 2.8L V-6 Turbo

The new 2.8L V-6 Turbo is the most sophisticated turbocharged engine ever offered in a Saab vehicle, delivering excellent responsiveness through low-speed torque and high-rpm power, as well as exceptional refinement. It features a technologically advanced 60-degree, dual overhead-cam architecture designed to produce strong power and excellent fuel economy to meet different needs in markets around the world.

Technology such as a twin-scroll turbocharger and variable intake valve timing helps the 2.8L V-6 Turbo achieve 250 horsepower (184 kw) and 258 lb.-ft. of torque (350 Nm) in the 9-3.

The V-6 has a lightweight aluminum cylinder block with iron cylinder sleeves, an aluminum structural oil pan and aluminum cylinder heads with four valves per cylinder. It builds on those strengths with components and technology developed specifically for the turbo system, including:

* Twin-scroll turbocharger delivering approximately 9 pounds of boost (0.6 bar)

* Integrated charge cooling

* Unique cylinder heads made from 356T-6 aluminum and featuring sodium-filled exhaust valves

* Forged steel crankshaft and sinter-forged connecting rods strengthened for turbocharged loads

* Pistons with anodized ring grooves designed for turbocharger boost pressure

* 9.5:1 compression ratio

* Piston oil cooling jets

* Unique camshaft profiles designed for turbocharger performance

* Hydroformed 'dual skin' exhaust manifolds with stainless steel inner liners

* Engine-mounted oil cooler

by Saab

by Saab

A Swedish automotive company located in Trollhattan, Saab has been in the business of producing cars since the late 1940s. Unique in its history, Saabs is unlike any other manufacturer with a tagline 'Born from Jets', the original Saab was built by sixteen aircraft engineers. The collaboration of these designers resulted in a precise and aerodynamically sound car similar to the design of a fighter jet.

Beginning in the '99 model year, the car was badged as 93 at a time when Saab was revising the naming strategy of their small car to mimic that of the larger 95. Pronounced as 'nine three', Saab consistently advertises it as 9-3. The 9-3 is not to be confused with the Saab 93, produced from 1955 until 1960, this model was pronounced 'ninety three'.

Introduced in 1998 as basically a rebadged Saab 900 (94-98 model), the Saab Classic 9-3 only had a few slight updates, which distinguished it from its predecessor. A redesigned grille and the third 'high-level' brake light from the trunk ridge to the top of the rear screen were the main changes. This brake light made the car much safer since it improved the visibility for following cars. A compact executive car, the 9-3 shares its GM Epsilon platform with the Opel Vectra and the Cadillac BLS. The BLS was made on the same assembly line in Sweden up until 2009. Magna Steyr produced the convertible version of the 9-3 in Austria until 2010, when production was relocated to Trollhattan. Today the 9-3 is currently the entry-level model for Saab.

Claiming that 1,100 changes were made since the Saab 900, the first generation 9-3 debuted in 98 with also a revised suspension in an effort to tighten up the handling features of its predecessor, the 900. The 9-3 showcased much smoother styling, with even a few models featuring a black rear spoiler and the loss of Saab's trademark centrally mounted 'snow flap'. Enthusiasts could purchase the 9-3 as a three or five-door hatchback or as a two-door convertible.

This was also the final small Saab to utilize the company's H engine. Big updates since the last model included much-improved ride and handling and majorly improved crash-worthiness with standard side impact airbags that came with head protection and active headrests. This first generation was produced until 2008 and along with the Saab 9-5 and the Volvo S70, the 9-3 was the first cars in the entire world to earn the maximum score in a side impact augmented by a pole test based on Euro NCAP testing. The 9-3 continued the Saab safety tradition of performing a Moose Test.

The Saab 9-3 was offered with a new variant of the B204 engine, which was a low-pressure turbo (LPT) engine that was based on the B204L, which was used in the last generation Saab 900. 9-3s were all turbocharged petrol engines for the US market with the 'full pressure turbo' as the standard option, and a 'HOT' variant was featured in the SE models for the 1999 model year.

For 2000, the 9-3 went from SAAB's Trionic 5 to Trionic 7 engine management system. This first-generation model was also the first Saab that was offered with a diesel engine, which was also found in the Opel Vectra, Astra G, Signum, and Safira A. The innovative Night Panel was brought over from the Saab 900, which was a unique feature that permitted dousing of the instrument panel lighting, except for the important info so it caused less distraction when driving at night. 326,370 first-generation 9-3s were produced.

The 'Viggen' or 'Thunderbolt' version was a high-powered version of the Saab 9-3 that got its name from the Saab 37 Viggen aircraft. Production lasted until 2002. The Viggen was rolled out with a turbocharged 2.3 L engine, giving 225 bhp and eventually 230 bhp on 1.4 bar of boost from its Mitsubishi TD04-HL 15-5 turbocharger. With a top speed of 160 mph, the fast Viggen could achieve 0-60mph in just 6.4 seconds. Numerous modifications were made to the Viggen to handle the performance and high power and included a higher performance-tuned ECU, higher capacity intercooler, heavy duty clutch and pressure plate, larger flow-through exhaust system, firmer dampers, stiffened and lowered springs and stronger CV joins and drive-shafts. The maximum torque was electronically limited to enable the front wheels to cope with the amount of torque available. 4600 Viggens were produced, with only 500 units produced for the UK market.

The Viggen was the original 9-3 to utilize Saab's Trionic 7 engine management system in 1999, which processed 2 million calculations every second. It analyzed combustion temperature, boost control, variable torque curves, and numerous other critical engine processes. 2001 brought with it a Traction Control System (TCS) to the Saab Viggen. The car featured a unique rear wing, which increased the downforce by 50% which required the radio antenna being moved to a new spot. Besides featuring extra power and torque the Viggen had aerodynamically designed bumpers and side skirts reducing the drag coefficient by 8%. It also came with especially bolstered and colored leather seats available in four different colors: charcoal, deep blue, flame ochre, and tan with tan inserts. Along with the festive seats, the Viggen featured sportier suspensions, upgraded brakes, larger wheels, and other upgraded parts.

Only offered with a five-speed manual transmission, the Viggen featured a CD player, power moonroof, and original Viggen-specific motorized and heated leather seats that featured the Viggen delta logo embossed in the backrest. Eventually, these seats were available in the Aero model but without the Viggen logo. From its debut until the middle of the '01 model year, several colors featured carbon-fiber interior trim when Saab substituted a cheaper printed gray pattern for the dash and standard trim for everything else.

If you purchased a new Viggen, you received the start treatment that included two days of advanced driving instructions to Road Atlanta as well as a dinner with Saab USE execs from Norcross, Georgia. This program was called Viggen Flight Academy, operated by Saab and Panoz, and was eventually converted into the current SAAB Aero Academy.

Besides the diesel engines, the first generation Saab 9-3 engines were versions of the Saab H engine. The first generation 9-3 was the final (besides the Saab 9-5) to use the all-Saab engine design. All variations of this engine featured a DOHC 16-valve design with Saab's Saab Direct Ignition. All of the turbocharged engines used Saab's Trionic engine management system, which worked directly with the Direct Ignition's IDM module. In the ten years that GM controlled Saab the subsequent two technologies were migrated into other GM products. Other than the low-pressure turbo and the normally aspirated version, all of the engines had high specific power outputs. The B205R produced 102.5 horsepower per liter, which surpassed the specific output of the 32-valve V8 engine in an Audi RS4, which produced 100 hp. Only 10 lb/ft of torque less than an E46 BMW M3, the B235R from the Viggen produced 252 lb/ft of torque. While producing first-rate fuel economy and low emissions, the Saab's 'EcoPower' philosophy incorporated high power and torque output when it was needed.

The second generation Saab 9-3 was introduced in 2002 at the North American International Auto Show and ran until 2012. Continuing to be a front-wheel drive car, like all Saabs, the new 9-3 was offered as a four-door sedan, a wagon, and a two-door convertible. The biggest update this generation was the deletion of the hatchback. This newest generation came with a variety of new safety features that include d the innovative Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR II), which reduced whiplash, and ReAxs, a passive rear-wheel steering design and passive toe-in, which helped reduce understeer under heavy braking.

The new generation featured a brand new 2.0L straight-4 engine Family II Ecotec engine from the GM for the gas-powered models instead of the EcoPower engine. The turbocharged I4 came in three different versions with the amount of turbo boost being determined by the power output. Standard in the non-US market Linear trim-level form was the 150 hp version called 1.8t. The 2.0t 175 horsepower version was standard in the U.S. market Linera or non-U.S. market Vector form, joined with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed 'Sentronic', which is a traditional automatic. SAAB'S earlier 'Sensonic' was different from this and was a manual transmission that allowed for shifting without a clutch pedal. The B207R engine 201 hp 2.0T was offered in both the Vector and Art forms. The automatic transmission was available, though the Vector received paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. The manual transmission was a 6-speed in 2003 Arcs and Vectors.

The first to utilize the global GM Epsilon platform were both the Saab 9-3 and the Opel Vectra, which were then lengthened to accommodate four new siblings; the Chevy Malibu, Malibu Maxx, Saturn Aura, and the Pontiac G6. Some of the exclusive features of the Saab 9-3 included a fiber-optic electric/electronic system, the chance of AWD, and ReAxs.

The last forty-seven Saabs were built on February 22, 2012. All of them were 9-3 Independence Edition convertible models that were produced by one of Sweden's biggest car dealers, ANA, in Trollhattan. Twenty-six of the cars were RHD, while 21 were LHD cars. The final Saab was a Saab 9-3 Aero Independence Edition TTiD convertible.

For 2005 the U.S. Saab 9-3 convertibles were sold with 16-inch wheels that were standard, while the Aero model received 17-inch wheels. This was a difference from the previous 15-inch wheels found in the Linear version. 2005 This was the final year for the Linear and Arc version in the U.S.

At the LA Auto Show in January of 2006, a commemorative '20 Years Edition Aero Convertible' was debuted for the American market to celebrate 20 years since the introduction of the Saab 900 convertible. Two optional engines this year were a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder and an all-new 2.8-liter turbo 6-cylinder. The 4-cylinder engine option featured 12.3 psi maximum turbo boost pressure that turned out 210 hp. The 6-cylinder engine had 8.7 psi boost that turned out 250 hp. Marketed in the U.S. as the 2.0T, the 2.0-liter 16-valve turbo 4-cylinder model replaced the Linear and Arc models that were sold until the '05 model year. The U.S. 2.0T version was much like the 2005 Arc except for U.S. Linear wheels being used. In other countries, the Linear and Arc continued being sold.

Halfway through the 2006 model year, the U.S. cars lost the trunk release button on the driver's door to save money. The cars built at the beginning of the year kept the release mechanism mounted on the driver door. Once it was gone, the only way to open the truck what to use the key fob, or the emergency release button found inside the trunk.

For 2007 the dashboard was entirely redone with a return to the look of the classic Saab 900 dash, and the Saab Info Display being relocated to the main instrument binnacle from its high-mounted position. Saab's 9-5 climate control system replaced the button-heavy climate control system. For this year OnStar was re-introduced and required when Nav was ordered in North America. The corporate GM head unit was introduced and which allowed for satellite radio and MP3 CD capability. The cabin got much quieter this year, and the suspension went from borderline harsh to firm. Exterior color choices switched from Steel Gray to Titan Gray. The 210 hp 2.0-liter 16-valve turbo engine and the 250 hp 2.8-liter V6 turbo were the only engine choices for the 2007 U.S. market. The 2.0 model manual transmission was updated from 5-speed to 6-speed.

Debuting at the Saab Festival in Trollhattan, Sweden on June 10th, 2007, the 2008 cars were reputed to have undergone over 2000 changes from the previous year. These updates included new frontal styling that was inspired by the Saab 9-2X, a new clamshell hood, all-new door panels and frosted rear lamps. On the outside, some modifications were made to the limited edition XWD 280 hp 9-3 Turbo X, which was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show. In March of 2008, Saab introduced an all-wheel-drive version of the Aero with the system named 'XWD'.

The limited edition Turbo X sedan and wagon were deleted from the lineup in 2009, while the 9-3 series expanded the trim levels. Now the 2.0T and Aero sedan and wagon models were available with Saab's all-wheel drive (XWD).

Due to limited under-body space the convertible range continued to lack the all-wheel-drive option for the necessary componentry because of added structural bracing that compensated for the severity that was lost when the hard roof was taken from the design of the car. The Saab 9-3 didn't change much for 2009. The 9-3X, a four-wheel-drive XUV version of the 9-3 SportCombi was introduced this year at the Geneva Auto show.

In 2011 for the '12 model year, the Saab 9-3 underwent some updates that included changes in the engine range with a complete reduction in diesel and petrol engine fuel consumption of 12% and 7%, respectively. Other changes included an extended all-wheel-drive choice that included the new entry-level 163 hp 2.0-liter gas/BioPower engine. New this year with all-new rear badging in line with the fresh Saab 9-5 sedan. Updates also included a new bumper design, new 'ice block' style headlights, minor interior update that included titanium metallic effect trim around the instrument panel, doors, gearshift and glove box. The Aero now received graphite fiber effect. The Saab classic three-spoke alloy wheel returned and the 16-inch design is part of an expanded 16 to 18-inch wheel option. To commemorate the first anniversary of the sale to Spyker Cars, a limited edition 'Independence Edition' convertible will be introduced with an estimated 366 units produced.

At the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show, the Saab Turbo X debuted. Produced to celebrate SAAB'S 30-year history of turbocharging. All of the Turbo X models were featured in metallic jet black with matte grey trim. SAAB's first production car with the XWD all-wheel drive system from eLSD and Haldex Traction the Turbo X is powered by a 2.8-liter V6 that produced 280 PS joined to a six-speed manual or auto gearbox. The car also featured larger brakes along with stiffer springs and shocks. Featuring a carbon fiber look was the dash, shift lever, and door panels, and the turbo gauge draws its design from the Saab 900.

Introduced at the 2010 Paris Auto Show was the Saab 9-3 ePower electric car, which became Saab's first electric vehicle. The concept car was based on the 9-3 SportCombi wagon and could achieve a top speed of 93 mph and has a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an estimated driving range of 120 miles. By late 2011 Saab had organized to run a 2-year trial with 70 ePower demonstrators in Sweden. National Electric Vehicle Sweden, the new owner of the Saab family has announced that they intend to begin producing the all-electric 9-3 ePower to be introduced in China by the end of 2013 or early 2014.

In early 2011 Saab announced that a brand new version of the 9-3 would be introduced in 2012 as a '13 model. It would be based on the Saab Phoenix platform found in the Saab PhoeniX concept car. Standard on this new vehicle would the new Saab IQon infotainment system. This concept was designed by Jason Castriota and is intended as a combi coupe/hatchback, crossover, and convertible.

Since the Saab Company was facing bankruptcy, the planned third generation has been put on the back burner for now. The new owner of Saab, National Electric Vehicle Sweden, has announced that they intend to behind producing an all-electric 9-3 ePower from 2013. Initial reports seem to hint that this new car will be based on the 2nd generation 9-3 instead of the Phoenix platform originally picked for production.

Over the years, the Saab 93-3 has won numerous awards. These include Top Safety Pick in the U.S. by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for 2006. Auto Trader in Great Britain awarded the car Compact Executive Car of the Year. And Top Gear Magazine's New Car Buyer's Guide in the UK awarded the Saab 9-3 Top Small Executive Car. Hong Kong Car and Driver awarded the car as '10 best Cars of the Year'. In 1998 Fortune Magazine, USA named it among the Top Ten Cars of 1999.

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saab_9-3

http://saabmuseum.com/en/saab-model/saab-classic-9-3/

http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/ganews?readform&make=Saab&model=9-3&start=2#FamilyTree

http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/carfamilytree?ReadForm&ID=5A5607364201161CCA257125001A1634

by Jessican Donaldson