Saab 9-3 (2007 – 2011) Review

March 2008

2008 Model Year Aero X facelift, new twin turbo Alfa Romeo diesel engine, BioPower flex-fuel engines, new on-road four wheel drive system called XWD and simplified model range. Engine line-up will ultimately include an innovative 180 hp (132 kW), twin-turbo 1.9 diesel, an uprated 280 hp (206 kW), 2.8V6 turbo petrol engine and an additional 175 hp 2.0t SAAB BioPower option, delivering 200 hp (147 kW) when running on bioethanol E85 fuel.

Three petrol engines on offer for most of the model lifespan, a 1.8i, a 2.0 and the 2.8V6 turbo petrol. The 1.8i was the belt cam GM Z18XE engine. Cars were badged simply 1.8. Same engine was used in the Vectra and Zafira. Waterpump driven separately, not by timing belt. The 2.0 B207 is chai- cam and is essentially the Z20NET GM engine, although SAAB had involvement in its development and made tweaks for the B207R. Saab 9-3s badged 1.8t, 2.0t and Aero/2.0T had this engine in differing states of tune and the Aero/2.0T had a different turbo. The 2.8 V6 is also a GM engine but should not be confused with the GM V6 used in older models. It is a belt cam engine, known as the B284 and is the Holden built LP9 engine. It is found in the Aero, Turbo X and Carlsson.

The 1.9-litre, 16-valve engine, twin tgurbo diesel badged TTiD, produces 180 hp (132 kW) and 400 Nm of maximum torque, specific power outputs that are unmatched among competitor products on the market. With combined fuel consumption of 47.9 mpg projected for the Sport Saloon, this engine also offers class-leading economy, together with in-gear performance on a par with the 2.8V6 turbo petrol engine. 1.9 TTiD engine is available in Aero specification, as well as Vector Sport. It is offered in all three bodystyles, in addition to the current 120 (88 kW) and 150 hp (110 kW) 1.9 TiD engines, with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Available from around November 2007.

MY08 trim levels, comprised Airflow, Linear SE, Vector Sport and Aero.

SAAB 9-3 Turbo X and Carlsson XWD is a fully automatic, on-demand system capable of sending up to 100 per cent of engine torque to the front or rear wheels whenever necessary. It features innovative developments in wheel slip management and the use of an electronically-controlled rear limited-slip differential, designed to optimise handling and stability in all driving conditions.

The system is governed by its own electronic control unit, which functions in harness with the engine, transmission and ABS/ESP control modules. The hardware consists of a Power Take-off Unit (PTU) in the front final-drive that transmits engine torque through a prop-shaft to the Rear Drive Module (RDM). This incorporates a Torque Transfer Device (TTD) and an optional electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential (eLSD). Both are wet, multi-plate clutch units from Haldex.

Making XWD even more effective is optional eLSD. This is the first application of an electronically-controlled, rear limited slip differential in this segment of the market. The eLSD is installed alongside the RDM and operates via pressurised clutch plates on a principle similar to the larger TTD. In icy or wet split-friction conditions, for example, it uses inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40 per cent of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip.

Saab has announced that its 1.9 TTiD engine is now available in all 9-3 Vector Sport variants, bringing this revolutionary technology into a completely new price range. Previously only available in the flagship Aero model, prices will start from £25,315 for the Vector Sport variant. The Alfa/Saab TTiD engine produces 180 hp (132kW) and 400 Nm of maximum torque, specific power outputs that are unmatched among competitor products on the market. Combined fuel economy of 50.4mpg for the Saloon, and CO2 emissions rate of just 149g/km.

25-2-2009: 1.9TiD 150hp/110kW down to 137g/km thanks to Saab EcoPower Technology. The 1.9TiD 150hp/110kW engine now produces just 137g/km with combined fuel economy of 54.3mpg. Likewise, the Vector Sport 1.9TTiD 180hp/132kW, twin turbo engine, now produces 139g/km CO2 and has an impressive combined fuel consumption figure of 53.3mpg. The SportWagon’s figures are also improved, to 144g/km and 51.4mpg. In terms of CO2 grams per horsepower, the twin turbo models (badged 1.9TTiD) are now among the top performers in their class. The efficiency gains, averaging seven percent, have been achieved by a series of fine-tuning measures including: the use of wider gear ratios, a longer final drive, idle and low engine speed remapping, and an optimised tyre and wheel choice. 0-60mph acceleration is unchanged, while fifth gear 50-80mph times are increased by less than one second. The CO2 reductions are offered only with manual transmission.

May 2009

New lower emission diesel Saab 9-3 Turbo Edition comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather interior, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, 9-speaker 150w audio system with MP3 compatibility and cruise control. Priced from £19,995 for the Saloon and £21,071.60 for the SportWagon.

Revised EcoPower diesel engine range to offer lower CO2 emissions and increased fuel efficiency. Alfa Romeo sourced 1.9TiD 150hp/110kW engine now produces CO2 emissions of just 137g/km with combined fuel economy of 54.3mpg. The 1.9TTiD 180hp/132kW twin turbo diesel engine has also been revised, and now produces only 139g/km and has a combined fuel consumption figure of 53.3mpg. The SportWagon’s figures are also improved for both engines, to 144g/km and 51.4mpg. This puts most Turbo Edition variants with diesel engines in VED Band E.

General Motors Company and Spyker Cars N.V, today confirmed the details of a binding agreement over the transfer of ownership of Saab Automobile AB of Trollhättan, Sweden. The transaction is expected to close in February and Saab Automobile will exit the orderly wind down process in line with that timetable.

In order to allow Saab to operate on a stand-alone basis outside GM, Saab and GM will enter into a number of ancillary agreements. As part of the transaction, Spyker intends to negotiate the acquisition of all the outstanding shares in Saab Great Britain Limited, the UK distribution, marketing and sales company for Saab from General Motors UK Limited.

March 2010

Production at Trollhattan by Spyker Cars NV recommenced.

September 2010

Model Year 2011 Saab 9-3 range

* Twin turbo diesels give CO2 emissions of just 119 g/km
* 180 hp variant has the lowest CO2 per hp of any four cylinder diesel on the market.
* Across-the-range reduction of 10 percent in CO2 emissions
* Improved fuel economy with 62.8mpg on the combined cycle

Class-leading CO2 emissions of 119 g/km are on offer within the latest Saab 9-3 range, which benefits from an across-the-board emissions reduction of 10 percent, making this car a perfect choice for company car users, and a cost-effective option for customers keen to reduce fuel consumption and their carbon footprint.

For Model Year 2011, all 9-3 diesel engines have more advanced twin turbocharged engines and, in the saloon, all three engines give CO2 emissions of just 119 g/km and exceptionally low combined cycle fuel consumption of 62.8 mpg. The most powerful variant, the 180 hp 1.9 TTiD, now delivers the most efficient performance for a four cylinder diesel engine in the marketplace in terms of CO2 per unit of horsepower.Saab engineers have delivered class-leading diesel performance following an 18-month development program which focused on achieving an average 12 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. For saloon models, the result is emissions below 120 g/km, a key vehicle taxation threshold in the UK market, and the cleanest and most efficient Saab ever.

By introducing twin turbochargers across the diesel range, Saab engineers have optimised the engines to harness more power and torque in the interests of fuel consumption and lower emissions.

The 1.9-litre diesel line-up now comprises a 130 hp TTiD unit (replacing the previous 120 hp TiD engine), a 160 hp version (replacing the 150 hp TiD engine) and a range-topping 180 hp/400 Nm variant.

With these engines and manual transmission, the 9-3 saloon delivers outstanding combined cycle fuel economy of 62.8 mpg and 119 g/km CO2 emissions, and is tax-exempt for vehicle excise duty. The SportWagon offers an impressive 61.4 mpg and low CO2 emissions of 122g/km and for the Convertible, the respective figures are 54.3 mpg and 137g/km.

To dip under the 120 g/km level, optimised gearing is fitted without affecting acceleration or top speed.

Other efficiency measures introduced include:

* Recalibrated engine management with improved fuel injection and combustion control
* Revised gear ratios to match new power and torque characteristics
* Improved electrical power management, including sophisticated alternator control when battery charging is not required and more efficient electro-hydraulic power steering assistance
* Low rolling resistance tires for reduced road friction
* Improved aerodynamics, with rear underbody deflector blades
* Reduced weight through lighter construction and sound-deadening materials
* Revised torque converter for automatic transmission with optimised shift programming.

The all-turbo petrol line-up, which features an average reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of 7 percent, also benefits from some of these measures.

Standard Equipment Enhanced for MY11

In addition to the significant powertrain improvements, standard equipment levels have been increased for MY11. All 9-3 models now come with Bluetooth phone integration and heated front seats as standard. Other model year enhancements include the introduction of a ‘change-up' indicator in the instrument cluster to encourage economical driving; a clutch interlock system on manual transmissions; child seat top tether anchorage points and a perforated leather sport steering wheel on Aero models. Two new exterior paint colours have been added to the range - Diamond Silver and Java and rear engine badging has been changed to follow the same style as used on the new 9-5 saloon.

February 2011

The new SAAB 9-3 MY12 range, announced, features refreshed exterior and interior styling, backed by a more powerful, fuel-efficient engine range. Replacing the current Saloon, SportWagon, Convertible and 9-3X specifications, the 9-3 MY12 range is distinguished by new front bumpers and signature Saab ‘ice block’ headlamps. Inside, the instrument panel, cabin décor and seat upholstery are all given a fresh look. Two specifications are offered in the UK, SE and Aero.

Under the bonnet, new 2.0-litre petrol engines give 163hp and 220 hp and include direct injection, variable valve timing and twin scroll turbocharging. Combined cycle fuel consumption and emissions are reduced on average by 4% across the range.

These new engines join the current 130/160/180 hp 1.9-litre TTiD twin turbo diesel line-up which offers very competitiveemissions of just 119 g/km in both the Saloon and SportWagon - class-leading efficiency in terms ofper unit of horsepower for the 180 hp variant. Further fine tuning has now also delivered 119 g/km for the SportWagon, together with equally impressive 62.8mpg combined cycle fuel consumption.

Externally, the 9-3 MY12 range adopts the ‘ice block’ headlamp effect introduced on the new 9-5 Saloon. Inspired by the Aero X concept car, the units have a distinctive blue/green hue in daylight. The grille also features a more prominent, wing-shaped central bar carrying the SAAB wordmark, again like the 9-5 Saloon.

Re-profiled front bumpers include a deep, trapezoidal air intake finished with black, ribbed bars, or a mesh insert for Aero variants. Front fog lamps are fitted as standard, with Aero models featuring a matt chrome surround.

At the rear, the SAAB wordmark replaces badging on the chrome trim and all Saloon variants receive a trunk-mounted aerodynamic spoiler. New 17- inch and 18-inch wheel designs are also offered on SE and Aero respectively.

The cabin also receives a makeover. Titanium metallic-effect trim is introduced around the instrument panel, gearshift molding, doors and glove box, and as an option for the instrument panel fascia. The Aero interior features a graphite fibre-effect for all these items, including the fascia.

SE models are fitted with Leather appointed comfort seats, while Aero models features new Leather sports seats with contrasting stitching, inspired by the Aero X concept car. In both specifications, a useful storage pocket for small items is fitted to the side of the front seatbacks.

Further fine tuning for 9-3 MY12 SportWagon fitted with 130/160/180 hp TTiD engines has further improved emissions and fuel consumption to 119 g/km and 62.8mpg, respectively, over the combined cycle. Like the Saloon, the 180 hp SportWagon clearly leads its class in terms of low emissions and fuel consumption per unit of horsepower, making it the most powerful zero VED estate car available.

More efficient petrol engines deliver an average combined cycle improvement of 4% in fuel consumption and emissions. This is in addition to a 10 hp increase over the current 210 hp top-of-the-line offer. With power ratings of 163 hp (120 kW)/ 320 Nm and 220 hp (162 kW)/ 350 Nm, both new engines are available with front-wheel drive and XWD, Saab’s advanced all-wheel-drive system.

The use of variable valve timing and direct injection improves fuel consumption, emissions and performance. Hydraulically operated vane-type cam phasers enable both the inlet and exhaust valve timing to be adjusted independently, according to varying engine speed and load. The many benefits include a broader spread of torque, higher maximum power and improved fuel consumption.

Direct injection delivers fuel under high pressure directly into the combustion chamber. This enables the separation of air and fuel delivery, allowing improved scavenging of the combustion chamber to give substantially more low-end torque and reduced engine knocking.

A twin-scroll turbocharger is also used, which virtually eliminates turbo lag at low engine speeds. Each scroll on the turbine is fed by a separate exhaust passage from a pair of cylinders, enabling a throttle response comparable to that of a naturally-aspirated engine. Other features include twin counter-rotating balance shafts for smooth running and a forged steel crankshaft for added strength.

March 2011

SAAB GB announced prices and specifications for the new, improved 9-3 model range, on sale in the UK from April 2011.

Standard features across the range now include alloy wheels, leather trimmed interior, heated front seats, park assist and Bluetooth phone integration system along with safety systems including electronic stability programme, six airbags and SAAB Active Head Restraints . All MY12 9-3 models come with automatic dimming mirrors inside and outside the vehicle, electric folding mirrors and automatic rain sensor wipers as standard, a customer saving of £400.

There are two levels of specifications, SE and Aero. The MY12 9-3 range receives a fresh face, distinguished by new front bumpers, ‘ice block’ headlamps and a new grille. At the rear, the SAAB wordmark replaces badging on the chrome trim and all Saloon variants receive a boot-mounted aerodynamic spoiler.

Inside, the cabin features titanium metallic-effect trim around the instrument panel, gearshift moulding, doors and glovebox. SE models are fitted with Leather Appointed comfort seats, while Aero models feature new graphite-fibre around the instrument panel, gearshift moulding, doors and glovebox and Leather Sport seats with contrast stitching.

Under the bonnet, two new 2.0-litre petrol turbo engines produce 163hp and 220hp and include direct injection, variable valve timing and twin-scroll turbocharging. Both of these engines will be available with a six-speed manual and automatic transmission. In terms of CO 2 per unit of horsepower, the new manual 220hp 2.0-litre petrol 9-3 Aero Saloon and SportWagon raises the bar for efficient performance and is the most powerful sub 160g/km petrol engine vehicle on sale in the UK.

Like its sibling, the 9-3 1.9-litre manual twin turbo diesel line-up also offers class-leading CO 2 emissions of just 119g/km in both the Saloon and SportWagon. The MY12 9-3 SportWagon can now claim the title of being the most powerful zero first year VED estate car available in the UK and is a perfect choice for company car users, and a cost-effective option for customers keen to reduce fuel consumption and their carbon footprint.

January 0001

Saab MY12 Saloon Prices

January 0001 Trim	January 0001 Fuel	January 0001 Engine	January 0001 HP	January 0001 Transmission	CO 2 (g/km)	On-the-Road January 0001 Price (OTR)
SE	Diesel	1.9 TTiD	130	Manual 6-speed	119	£22,495
		1.9 TTiD	160 160	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	119 153	£22,995 £24,530
		1.9 TTiD	180 180	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	119 153	£23,495 £25,030
	Petrol	2.0t	163 163	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	155 185	£21,495 £22,875
Aero	Diesel	1.9 TTiD	180 180	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	129 153	£26,995 £28,530
	Petrol	2.0T	220 220	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	155 185	£27,245 £28,770
		2.0 T XWD	220 220	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	194 206	£29,255 £30,760

January 0001

MY12 Saab 9-3 SportWagon Price List:

January 0001 Trim	January 0001 Fuel	January 0001 Engine	January 0001 HP	January 0001 Transmission	CO 2 (g/km)	On-the-Road January 0001 Price (OTR)
SE	Diesel	1.9 TTiD	130	Manual 6-speed	119	£23,620
		1.9 TTiD	160 160	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	119 159	£24,120 £25,655
		1.9 TTiD	180 180	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	119 159	£24,620 £26,155
	Petrol	2.0t	163 163	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	159 190	£22,620 £24,270
Aero	Diesel	1.9 TTiD	180 180	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	135 159	£28,230 £29,655
	Petrol	2.0T	220 220	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	159 190	£28,370 £30,020
		2.0 T XWD	220 220	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	195 209	£30,380 £31,885
9-3X	Diesel	1.9 TTiD	180 180	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	135 159	£26,495 £27,920
	Petrol	2.0 T XWD	220 220	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	195 209	£27,620 £29,125

January 0001

MY12 Saab 9-3 Convertible Price List:

January 0001 Trim	January 0001 Fuel	January 0001 Engine	January 0001 HP	January 0001 Transmission	CO 2 (g/km)	On-the-Road January 0001 Price (OTR)
SE	Diesel	1.9 TTiD	160 160	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	137 162	£27,495 £28,920
		1.9 TTiD	180 180	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	137 162	£27,995 £29,420
	Petrol	2.0t	163 180	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	173 199	£27,495 £29,050
Aero	Diesel	1.9 TTiD	180 180	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	137 162	£31,745 £33,170
	Petrol	2.0T	220 220	Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed	173 199	£31,995 £33,550

September 2013

SAAB 9-3 back in pilot production. National Electric Vehicles Sweden (NEVS) that now owns SAAB has confirmed that the first car since the company was declared bankupt in 2011, has rolled off the line in Trollhatten.

The car, which is the first 9-3 to be built at the factory after a hiatus of more than years is a pre-production model to calibrate the factory's assembly line. Visually, it's identical to the old model, and this first batch won't be sold to the public, but the promised facelift will follow in due course, once production capapability is back up to speed.

The post-Spyker and GM Saab 9-5 will be powered by an as-yet unnamed four-cylinder petrol power unit, and will spearhead the company's relaunch over the next couple of years. NEVS won't be drawn on whether the convertible and estate models will go back into production, although it's a good bet that they will, especially considering the latter's popularity.