New Saab 9-3 Diesels Set 119 g/km CO2 Class Benchmark

Source: Saab September 7, 2010

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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.

For Model Year 2011, all diesel engines have more powerful two-stage turbocharging and, in the Sport Sedan, the 180 hp 1.9 TTiD unit gives CO2 emissions of just 119 g/km and exceptionally low, combined cycle fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100 km. In terms of CO2 per unit of horsepower, this combination now delivers the most efficient performance in the compact segment.

Other model year enhancements include: the continuation of the TX Edition for all bodystyles; the introduction of a 163 hp gasoline turbo engine with Saab XWD; and the addition of a ‘change-up’ indicator in the instrument cluster to encourage economical driving.

CO2 reduced to 119 g/km
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 Sport Sedan models, the result is emissions below 120 g/km, a key vehicle taxation threshold in many European markets.

By introducing two-stage turbocharging across the diesel range, Saab engineers remapped the engine management system to harness more power and torque in the interests of fuel consumption and lower emissions.

The 1.9-liter 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, Linear and Vector Sport Sedans deliver outstanding combined cycle fuel economy of 4.5 l/100 km and 119 g/km CO2 emissions. For the SportCombi, the respective figures are 4.6 l/100 km and 122 g/km. And for the 9-3 Convertible, available with the 160 and 180 hp engines, 5.1 l/100 km and 134 g/km.

To optimize emissions and fuel consumption, a slightly taller final drive is fitted to the transmission of the Sport Sedan and SportCombi, without affecting standing start acceleration or top speed. The shorter final drive ratio is retained for the Convertible.
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
• More sophisticated torque converter for automatic transmission with optimized shifting strategy
• The all-turbo gasoline line-up, which features an average reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of 7percent, also benefits from some of these measures.

TX Edition continued
All Saab 9-3 Vector and Aero models continue to include a ‘TX’ edition, inspired by the success of the black 9-3 Turbo X limited edition. TX variants are distinguished by a titanium-like finish to the grille, front bumper insert and other exterior detailing, together with 17 or 18-inch split-spoke alloy wheels. The cabin features carbon fiber trim, a thick-rimmed leather steering wheel and unique carpet mats. Six exterior colors are available.

In Linear specification, the TX edition is offered in all colors, together with front fog lamps, 16-inch split-spoke alloy wheels, carbon fiber cabin trim and a sports leather steering wheel.

Other Model Year improvements

• Expanded all-wheel-drive choice: New entry-level 163 hp, 2.0-liter gasoline/BioPower engine added for 9-3 SportSedan, SportCombi and 9-3X models with Saab XWD.
• Updated identity: New rear badging in line with all new Saab 9-5 sedan.
• Eco-driving aid: With manual transmission, a ‘change-up’ indicator is added to the instrument cluster to facilitate fuel saving.
• E85 fuel indicator: For Saab BioPower flex-fuel engines, a read-out in the car computer menu shows the proportion of E85 in the fuel tank.
• Return of Saab classic, three-spoke alloy wheel: This 16-inch design is part of an expanded 16 to 18-inch wheel choice.