2008 New Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi - Press Release

Satisfying Wants and Meeting Needs

The 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi range is focused on delivering a unique, ‘fun to drive’ experience that places it among the class leaders for sporty performance and excellent chassis dynamics.

The coupé-like silhouette and strong, sporty stance of the Sport Sedan help convey that ‘moving when stationary’ look. And the muscular proportions of the SportCombi are a bold reaffirmation of Saab's tradition for designing cars that are sporty in character and versatile in use. Both models are positioned in the premium, mid-size segment, providing an alternative choice to natural competitors such as the BMW 3-series, Audi A4 and Mercedes C-class.

The extensive powertrain line-up offers a 'tri-fuel' choice of gasoline, diesel or bioethanol powered engines. It includes an all-aluminum 2.8-liter V6 turbocharged engine rated at 280 hp (206 kW) in combination with all-wheel- drive (Saab XWD); a powerful two-stage turbo diesel packing 400 Nm of torque and a choice of two Saab BioPower (E85) flex-fuel engines.

Attachment 777

Exterior Design
The sporty, distinctive looks of the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi are an expression of modern Scandinavian design, incorporating contemporary and classic Saab design themes. Both models have a bold and assertive stance that reflects their strong, driving appeal. The sedan’s coupé-like profile communicates its sporty character, while the SportCombi’s cohesive, five-door bodystyle inherits the 'combi-coupé' genes of the first Saab 99 Turbo.

• Saab ‘signature’ styling cues: The wedge-like profile with its rising belt-line culminating in that distinctive 'hockey stick' curve into the C or D-pillar; the clamshell hood, the single side window graphic; the shaping of the headlamps units and smoked white rear light clusters.

• Bold frontal styling. The prominent central grille with its wing motif is inspired by the Aero X concept car, as is the U-shaped pressing in that classic Saab clamshell hood. The form of the grille and headlamp units is complemented a smooth bumper molding with a deep trapezoidal air intake.

• 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.

• Excellent aerodynamics. Impressive drag coefficient of 0.28 for the sedan and 0.33 for the SportCombi. Low lift forces for good high speed stability, with SportCombi first Saab to achieve zero lift values at both axles.

Interior Design and Features
In common with all Saab cars, the 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi are designed 'from the driver outwards’. That means the cabin ergonomics, the instrumentation, the controls and the seating position are all developed from the driver’s perspective. The SportCombi adds versatility features, such as a surprisingly large cargo deck, to facilitate the active sports and leisure pursuits of owners.

• Cockpit feel. The main instrument panel arcs around the driver. Logical layout and tactile feel to controls. Steering wheel adjusts for both rake and reach.

• ‘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.

• Dual-zone Automatic Climate Control fitted as standard, allowing 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.

• 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’.

• Infotainment systems include DVD/GPS satellite navigation with large 6.5-inch color monitor, Bluetooth™ Phone Integration system (BPIS) for automatic connection to audio system with operation by voice control or steering wheel buttons. Auxiliary input socket standard with all infotainment systems.

• Additional load-carrying potential. Both the Sport Sedan and SportCombi have 60/40 split fold rear seats with a ski hatch. The SportCombi features a wide-opening tailgate with a low floor giving access to a spacious, well-proportioned cargo deck, free from intrusions. An optional folding front passenger seat-back offers further interior space.

• Innovative TwinFloor stowage in SportCombi. After pulling the aircraft-shaped handle, the middle section of cargo floor hinges upwards transversely and slots in place. This provides support for the convenient stowage of shopping bags or other items in the recessed sub-floor, easily secured by a cargo net.

• Choice of three specifications: Linear, Vector and top-of-the-line Aero. Each with ‘light room’ (parchment) or ‘dark room’ (black) color theme.

Chassis, Steering and Brakes
The outstanding ‘fun to drive’ chassis dynamics of both the Sport Sedan and SportCombi deliver a level of driving involvement and pleasure that challenges the class benchmark. An active all-wheel-drive system (Saab XWD) is offered for Aero variants

• ‘ReAxs’ passive rear wheel steer characteristic. The kinematics of the rear suspension are tuned to give a unique rear wheel steer response for optimum handling and stability.

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

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

• Saab XWD, an active all;-wheel-drive system, is available on Aero variants, together with an uprated 280 hp/ 206 kW 2.8V6 turbo engine. It offers enhanced driver involvement and control in all road conditions. The Haldex multi-plate clutch unit infinitely varies engine torque between the front and rear axles, and an optional rear limited-slip differential can transfer torque between the rear drive shafts.

• Advanced chassis electronic systems. Saab-tuned ‘user friendly’ ESP® (Electronic Stability Program), Mechanical brake assist, EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), CBC (Cornering Brake Control) and TCS (Traction Control System).

• 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.

• Minimized unsprung weight for better ride quality. Front hub carriers, brake calipers, lower control arms in front suspension and toe and lower rear suspension links in aluminum.

• ‘Shear’ bushings at top of rear shock absorber mountings for compliant ride quality and effective vibration suppression.

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Powertrain
The turbo powertrains add excellent refinement and driveability to Saab’s traditional strengths of high torque for strong, mid-range pulling power. They deliver a level of responsive performance in keeping with the chassis’s excellent dynamics, further reinforcing the car’s driver focus. The line-up comprises six gasoline engine options, including two BioPower versionsand a choice of three diesel engines..

• Sophisticated Saab Trionic engine management for all four cylinder turbo gasoline and BioPower engines simultaneously measuring and adjusting ignition timing, fuel injection, turbo boost pressure, air mass and the electronic throttle for optimum combustion.

• All-aluminum 2.8-liter turbo engine. The first six cylinder unit to be purpose-built for Saab's turbocharged application. Offering 280 hp (206 kW) or 255 hp (188 kW), it combines multi-cylinder refinement with outstanding turbo performance. Single, twin-scroll turbocharger fed by both cylinder banks. Exclusive to top-of-the-range Aero variants.

• All-aluminium 2.0-liter turbo engines. Saab developed and tuned for 150 (110 kW), 175 (129 kW) and 210 hp (147 kW) with high torque for swift overtaking. All internal components unique to Saab. Balancer shafts for greater running refinement.

• Choice of twot BioPower engines giving more power and torque when running on E85 fuel. Saab BioPower is unique in offering flex-fuel engines that give enhanced performance, as well as reduced fossil CO2 emissions.

• 1.9TTiD engine with two-stage turbocharging leads the diesel choice.. It develops 180 hp (132 kW) and exceptional torque of 400 Nm with two turbos integrated as a single unit and common rail, direct and multiple fuel injection. Two other versions, with a VNT turbo, deliver 150 hp (110 kW) with 16-valves or 120 hp (88 kW) with 8-valves. A maintenance-free particulate filter is offered as an option..

• Naturally-aspirated 1.8i engine with 122 hp/90 kW and variable length intake manifold. Available in all specifications, except Aero, for broad customer appeal.

• Wide transmission choice. Six-speed manual gearboxes standard for 2.8V6, 210 hp (155 kW) and 175 hp (129 kW) turbos and all turbo diesels. Five-speed, adaptive automatic transmission has Saab Sentronic manual gear selection and optional steering wheel controls. Six-speed units offered with the 2.8V6 turbo and the 180 hp (132 kW) and 150 hp (110 kW) turbo diesels. A '5+2' variant, with two intermediate gears on kickdown, for 210 hp (155 kW) engine.

Body structure and Electrical systems
The 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi have the stiffest four and five-door body structurest yet produced by Saab, providing solid foundations on which their exemplary handling, ride and safety characteristics are built. A multiplex digital signal network ensures the fast and efficient control of major functions.

• High torsional rigidity - 22,000 Nm/degree of deflection for the Sport Sedan and, despite the large tailgate opening, only 6.6 per cent less for the SportCombi Use of FEM design techniques and tailored blanks in construction reduces unnecessary weight and concentrates strength where needed.

• Almost 60%of body weight in high strength or ultra high strength steel, used mainly in central passenger safety cage where all main beams have closed sections for additional strength.

• Structural 'rings' around C and D-pillars in the SportCombi 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 the base of C-pillars is further reinforced.

• 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.

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 achieved a maximum five-star rating.

• Database covering more than 6,100 real-life accidents involving Saab cars in Sweden. 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.

Distinctive Styling Inspired by Aero X Concept

• Sporty, coupé-like styling for Sport Sedan
• Dynamic looks for SportCombi as alternative to conventional wagon proportions
• Blend of contemporary and classic Saab design themes
• Excellent high speed stability, low 0.28 Cd.for Sport Sedan and 0.33 Cd for SportCombi

Exterior Styling
The distinctive looks of the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi clearly positions them as products that could only come from Saab. The styling strategy brings together contemporary and classic Saab design themes in a progressive, modern expression of the brand’s distinctive character. The result is a bold and assertive stance for both bodystyles that reflects a strong, sporty driver appeal.

At the front, the deep, prominent evolution of the Saab grille adopts a theme first seen on the Aero X concept car. This is complemented by sweeping headlamp units that incorporate a thin ‘eyebrow’ lighting zone designed as a brand specific ‘signature’ feature. These units culminate in an upswept rear edge, introducing a Saab design theme from the 9-5 range and classic 900 model. The grille’s central wing motif is retained as a reference to Saab’s aircraft heritage..

The frontal styling sees the adoption of another Saab signature feature: a ‘clamshell’ hood, closing across the top of the front wings. The hood pressing incorporates a sweeping, U-shaped styling line, as first seen on the Aero X, which echoes the curvature of the windshield.

The swept-back frontal lines are complemented by a front bumper and splitter assembly with a deep, trapezoidal air intake, even more pronounced on Aero versions. This is flanked by deep black vents which are framed, like the grille, in a matte chrome finish. As with the Aero X concept, these represent a metaphor for the intakes of a jet engine.

Doors and bumpers moldings are clean and uncluttered by rubbing strips The flared, sill extensions are visually integrated front and rear with the scalloped corners of the bumper moldings. At the rear, both sedan and combi feature distinctive ‘frosted’ white light clusters, a subtle reference to the brand’s Scandinavian roots.

In profile, the gently arching roofline of the sedan flows between the steeply raked front and rear screens to create a coupé-like shape.. Classic Saab styling cues include: the combined teardrop form of the side windows with a disguised ‘B’ pillar; the wedge shape and high waistline culminating in that distinctive ‘hockey stick’ curve into the ‘C’ pillar; and a single swage line running the entire length of the car.

The SportCombi is a bold statement of Saab's tradition for designing cars that are sporty in character and versatile in use. It draws on rich design heritage that began with the first 'combi-coupé' Saab 99 Turbo, a performance car that also offered wagon-like functionality. The SportCombi's compact appearance, its steeply raked rear screen, its short rear overhang, the small glass area behind the C-pillar, and the absence of roof rails, available as an option, are all features that separate it from conventional wagon design.

Like the sedan, the SportCombi has a rising belt-line that extends along the entire length of the car, culminating in the Saab 'hockey stick' shape of the forward-angled D-pillar. All side windows are encapsulated within a single, teardrop-like graphic, with the B- and C-pillars 'blacked out'.

The dramatic rear styling features a relatively short rear overhang and distinctive, bold rear light zones with white, frosted lenses. In profile, these units are angled forward to emphasize the 'fastback' shape of the rear styling. A rear spoiler is neatly integrated at the top of the steeply raked tailgate, extending and visually lowering the profile of the roofline. The overall effect provides a sharp contrast to the extension of rear bodywork and window glazing commonly associated with competitors in the premium wagon segment.


Aerodynamics
The 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi are both designed to cleave the air as efficiently as possible, providing good high speed stability, optimised fuel consumption and low wind noise inside the car.

The aerodynamics team concentrated their efforts on achieving a smooth airflow over, around, through and under the car. Advanced CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) modeling played a vital role in the visualization of airflow and facilitated optimization work in the wind tunnel. CFD was also the main tool for analyzing internal airflows: in the engine bay. It was important to look at flow separation at the rear in order to reduce turbulence and minimize the size of the car’s wake.

The shaping of the side sills, rear body panels and the radius and curvature of the rear corner of the C-pillars in the Sport Sedan and the D-pillars in the SportCombi all play a part in helping to reduce drag. The result is an impressive drag coefficient of 0.28 for the Sport Sedan and 0.33 for the SportCombi

At the front, the rear edge of the hood lid ‘kicks up’ to smooth the passage of air on to and around the windscreen and A-pillars, helping to reduce wind noise as well as easing airflow. The traditionally deep curvature of the windscreen reduces the acceleration of the airflow as it approaches the A-pillars, which have a flattened radius where they connect to the windscreen to minimize airflow disturbance. The door mirror casings even have a small spoiler-like profile in the bottom surface to reduce the possibility of wind noise and grime build-up on the side windows.

On the sedan, the team also worked hard to reduce disturbance where the bottom of rear window joins the trunk deck, a particularly sensitive area in ‘notchback’ shapes. The subtle upturn of the rear edge of the trunk lid is, in effect, an integral ‘lip’ spoiler which helps reduce the size of the car’s wake, the area of turbulent air that trails behind the car at speed.

High speed stability, including pitch sensitivity under braking and yaw responses to cross-winds at different speeds and angles, was a main priority. The SportCombi is the first Saab to achieve a zero level of lift at both axles, 0.00Clf and 0.00Clr. This has been achieved by utilizing the longer roofline of the SportCombi to speed up airflow, including the aerodynamic performance of the rear spoiler. . For the Sport Sedan a value of 0.11 Clr (coefficient of rear lift) is on a par with best in class.

Driver in Focus

• 'Profiler' customization function
• 'ComSense' driver safety function to minimize distraction
• Dual-zone ACC (Automatic Climate Control) standard
• Advanced ‘infotainment’ systems
• Adaptable, cargo handling with ‘TwinFloor' rear stowage in SportCombi

Driver’s Environment
The Saab 9-3 is designed to provide a near perfect driving position for the vast majority of drivers, almost irrespective of size, through a multi-adjustable driver’s seat and a steering wheel that adjusts for both rake and height.

The main instrument panel gently arcs round the driver, an evolution of the same theme in the previous model. In typical Saab fashion, the controls are all logically grouped, those most frequently used bring nearest to hand and closest to the driver’s natural field of vision. The short gearshift lever is just a hand span away.

The main dials - a large speedometer, with a compressed scale above 140 kph, is flanked by a smaller rev-counter and a combined fuel/water temperature/turbo boost gauge - are recessed in traditional Saab fashion. They are white on black and continue to be softly illuminated in green as Saab believes this is the most restful color choice for night driving.

Also located in the main instrument panel are twin adjustable air vents and audio or infotainment system controls with, according to specification, a 6.5 inch, high resolution color monitor screen displaying particularly clear graphics.

The ‘Profiler’ facility, offering driver pre-sets for a wide range of functions is operated via steering wheel buttons, with on-screen prompts and selections shown in the main instrument display. Automatic climate control modes, the clock/alarm, speed scale illumination and, where fitted, the anti-theft alarm, parking assistance, rain sensitive wipers and heated seats can all be tailored in this way.

Saab has been seeking to minimize potential driver distraction for many years and the Saab 9-3’s ComSense safety function includes the use of a 'dynamic workload manager', introduced with the first generation Saab 9-5 sedan in 1997. This enables the brief suppression of dashboard warning messages, or the interception of an incoming phone call, when a moment of high driver workload is detected by the operation of the indicators or heavy braking.

In the same way, the 'Night Panel' feature on all Saab cars, allows the driver to minimize distraction by switching off, or dimming, all the main instrumentation illumination at night (expect for the speedometer). The development of steering wheel controls for the audio system and telephone, as well as voice activation programs, are seen as further means of keeping the driver's attention on the road.

The three-spoke steering wheel is slimmer and sportier than previous Saab designs. Adjustable for height and rake, it can carry buttons for the 'infotainment' system, telephone, telematics or gear shifting with automatic transmission.

A substantial central console below the main instrument panel is inclined slightly towards the driver and sweeps elegantly down between the front seats. It accommodates the automatic climate controls, more minor switchgear, the gearshift lever, ignition switch and handbrake. The main storage compartment can be specified to incorporate coin slots, a 12-volt outlet for a battery charger and a smaller roll-top compartment with a cup-holder below the central arm-rest.

A particularly neat innovation is the ‘disguised’ handbrake, which is beautifully integrated in the edging trim of the console. It is a Z-shaped lever, self-adjusting and with a positive, easy-to-use action.

In true Saab tradition, the ignition switch continues to be located alongside the handbrake. It is now entirely electronic in operation and the previous mechanical reverse gear lock is replaced by an automatic, electronic steering column lock.

Seating comfort
Saab has earned an enviable reputation for class-leading seating comfort and the Saab 9-3 continues that tradition. All four seating positions are upholstered to be comfortable and supportive, without being too firm. The front seat squabs and backrests are well bolstered where it matters to give excellent under thigh and lateral back support. The rear of each front seatback is also fully upholstered, including a large storage pocket, and carefully shaped to optimize rear seat leg room.

All four seating positions offer similar standards of comfort, rear seat passengers benefiting from with their own adjustable air vents, reading lights, cup-holders, a centre armrest and generous storage facilities.Saab’s new generation active head restraints (see Safety section for details) are fitted to both front seats and the rear head restraints can be folded flat without compromising seat comfort.

Heating and Ventilation
Saab engineers are constantly seeking to raise the efficiency of air conditioning systems, often balancing conflicting needs, such as ensuring quick engine warm up in cold conditions while also providing an adequate supply of warm air for the passenger cabin. For more consistent performance, Saab favors ‘energy balanced’ rather than sensor-controlled automatic systems. This means there are no sudden eruptions of the fan, of example, when a door or window is briefly opened

All variants are fitted with a highly efficient automatic climate control (ACC) system, which is designed to function in a range of conditions from - 20º C to + 40º C.In-car air circulation is optimized by CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) modeling and the system operates on a ‘dual zone’ basis, allowing different temperatures to be selected for the left or right hand side of the car. This can be useful when the driver, for example, may wish to keep alert by having a slightly cooler setting. The system includes an automatic airflow balance function which compensates for temperature changes if one side of the car is in direct sunlight. Rear passengers also benefit from adjustable, twin air vents at the rear of the central console, as well as outlets under the front seats

Optional heated front seats are linked to the automatic climate control, which can switch on and progressively lower the seat heating as the interior warms up. This function and other ACC settings, such as the fan and air distribution, can also be selected through the Profiler customization menu.

Infotainment
The Saab 9-3 benefits from one of the most powerful electronics systems to be installed in a series production car (see Electronics section for full details). Fiber optics are used to provide a high speed platform for the car’s extensive ‘infotainment’ (communication and entertainment) functions and are capable of handling all likely future requirements in the fast-developing field of infotainment and driver communication, making it easy for owners to fit upgrades.

The passenger cabin sets new standards for Saab in terms of interior refinement and noise suppression. It has also allowed technicians to take interior acoustics to a new level, providing excellent sound reproduction for occupants irrespective of their seating position.

A choice of three 'infotainment' systems is offered, each of which includes a CD player compatible with MP3 music discs. Also fitted as standard is an auxiliary audio input.

The standard 'Saab Infotainment' system includes an RDS radio and single-slot CD player, 'Saab Infotainment CD Changer' adds an in-dash 6-disc facility and 'Saab Infotainment Plus' includes a GPS satellite navigation system with a large, 6.5 inch color touch-screen and voice control. In addition to a 'bird's eye view' map selection, direction arrows shown on the touch-screen.

All three 'infotainment' systems can be combined with a hands-free mobile phone facility, the Bluetooth Phone Integration System (BPIS). After an initial 'pairing' set-up procedure, a Bluetooth-enabled phone will automatically connect wirelessly to the audio system whenever the user enters the car. The phone is then operated by voice control or steering wheel buttons, with call information shown in the main instrument display. For recharging and connection to the car's external antenna, a phone dock in the center console is available as an accessory.

The audio range includes a new tailor-made Bose Centerpoint surround sound system, delivering five audio channels from CD, XM digital radio or MP3 inputs.. With twin amplifiers and 11 (sedan) or 10 (combi) speakers, its performance is optimized for the acoustics of the cabin, giving an impressive, expanded 'concert hall' sound reproduction. Surround sound quality is automatically provided even if a CD is not encoded for it. This system is identified by Bose branding embossed on the outer front speaker grilles.

Storage and Load-carrying
Both the Sport Sedan and SportCombi follow the tradition of all Saab products it offering excellent on-board storage and load-carrying facilities.

There are numerous places in the passenger compartment where various items can be stowed. Up front, there is a small cubbyhole in place of the optional ashtray (still with a cigar lighter as a power point), two good-sized door bins; a large air-conditioned glove compartment and two pouches at the front of the seat squabs.

Rear seat passengers are also well served. In addition to the two door bins, there are large pockets in the front seatbacks, according to specification. and a flat storage area in the center armrest. An optional double cup-holder is also spring-mounted in the front of the seat squab.

The sedan’s trunk is deep and tall with a wide opening and an ample 421-liter capacity. Two pull handles in the top of the trunk lower the 60/40 split rear seat-back, which includes a ski-hatch, to give a flexible and impressive load-carrying potential. The floor of the trunk also has two tie-down loops to safely secure heavy items.

Versatility
The SportCombi is designed to support the sports and leisure interests of its owners, as well as their desire for a rewarding driving experience. The rear cargo area, with a low floor, is surprisingly spacious and well proportioned. The compact design of the rear suspension allows a deep 'box-like' space, free from intrusions. It offers a useful rear seat up/down volume of 419/1273 liters (VDA).

The 60/40 split seat-back incorporates a 'ski-hatch' and folds down without any need to move the fixed seat cushion. A folding front passenger seat-back is available as an option with the Linear and Arc interior, further increasing the overall 'load through' length to 2.65 meters.

The fully carpeted rear load space is illuminated by two interior lights mounted on the inside of the D-pillars. It is accessed by a lightly weighted tailgate that opens down to bumper level, its damper rods completely hidden in the roof to allow a clear, uncluttered opening. Two recessed handles in the bottom edge of the tailgate allow easy closing whether the user is right or left-handed. The flush-fitted, black molded floor plate will not become marked or scratched in heavy use.

The main cargo deck, with chrome-finished cargo tie-down loops at each corner, echoes Saab's aviation heritage by featuring a chrome, aircraft-shaped handle. This reveals the SportCombi's innovative TwinFloor stowage facility. The middle section of the floor hinges upwards transversely when the handle is pulled, the front edge fitting into two retaining slots. The recessed sub-floor provides a convenient location for shopping bags, which can be easily secured by fitting a cargo net between the top of the floor, in its raised position, and attachment points at each corner of the recess. A bag holder for this feature is available as an option, together with a load divider and cargo net.

There is also a 12-volt power socket in the main load area (for a hot or cool box) and a separate storage compartment at either side of the floor, one fitted with a molded holder for large bottles.
A retractable load cover slots into position behind the rear seatback and can be pulled out to keep items out of sight. When deployed, it is ergonomically designed to slide up the inside of the D-pillars for easy access to the load space.

A two position, retractable cargo retaining net also provides protection against shifting loads. When the rear seat is in position, it can be fitted into slots behind the seat-back and hooked up into carriers in the roof, separating rear passengers from the cargo deck. Alternatively, when the rear seat-back is folded down, the holder and its net can be relocated across the floor of the cabin, behind the front seats, from where the net and can be pulled up into carriers near the top of the B-pillars.

For the top-of-the-line audio system, Saab is unique in fitting a large, 10-inch sub-woofer unit in the spare wheel well, giving outstanding acoustic performance.

Interior decor
There are two interior specifications or forms, Linear and Vector. Both can be specified in a ‘light room’ (parchment) or ‘dark room’ (black) color scheme for the seats, door panels, the main interior trim and carpets. However, the door cappings are always presented in anthracite, as part of their integration with the fascia and main instrument panel, and the interior headlining is always parchment.

‘Linear’ is intended to communicate a Scandinavian, understated and modern environment. The seats and door panels are upholstered in a combination of black textile and leatherette. The door trim inserts and the center console molding for the gear lever are presented in a complementary dark grey, ‘shark’ finish.

‘Vector’ is more progressive and performance orientated. The main instrument display adopts a black on white theme and the sports seats are trimmed with leather and textile panels, including more bolstering to the seat squabs and backrests. The door trim and glove box inserts, center molding and steering wheel spokes are finished in matte chrome.

‘Aero’ is, of course, the ultimate performance expression of the Saab 9-3 and this interior adds a sports steering wheel with distinctive matt chrome inserts in the leather rim, a design inspired by the control column of an aircraft - hinting at Saab's aviation heritage.
A superb premium leather interior is offered as an option on all variants, including seats, door trims and armrests. The soft, luxurious feel of this leather is a result of its semi-aniline quality. The seats are bolstered further and available in parchment, black or a black/shark combination.

Sporty Dynamics come as standard

• Sporty handling to challenge class benchmark
• Saab ‘ReAxs’ - unique rear wheel steer characteristic
• All-wheel-drive (Saab XWD) offered on Aero variants
• Three brake sizes according to engine power

The Sport Sedan and Sport Combi fulfil their roles as fun-to-drivecars by displaying exceptional handling characteristics that not only set new standards for Saab but also challenge class benchmarks. They are the result of a rigorous development program, the most exhaustive ever undertaken by Saab, designed to combine the benefits of front wheel drive - predictability and excellent driver feedback - with new levels of chassis control for a more rewarding driving experience.

An exceptionally stiff body provided Saab engineers with a solid foundation on which to achieve outstanding chassis dynamics, exemplary ride refinement and impressively low levels of noise, vibration and harshness.

The chassis’s innate talents are backed up with a full arsenal of electronic driver aids, including ABS (Antilock Braking System), TCS (Traction Control System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and an optional ESP® (Electronic Stability Program).

Sporty Handling with Saab ReAxs – passive rear wheel steer
The top priority of the Saab 9-3 chassis development program was to achieve best-in-class handling characteristics. This was an essential requirement as the car, in either sedan and wagon format, is targeted at owners who value the enjoymnent of a satisfying, high performance driving experience.

Anyone who drives the Sport Sedan or SportCombi will immediately appreciate its quick responses to steering, throttle and braking inputs, together with its impressive levels of grip, driver ‘feedback’ and body control. A low center of gravity and the exceptionally stiff bodyshell also play an important role.

The adoption of a four-link rear suspension layout, with toe-links and the use of ball joints instead of rubber inboard and outboard suspension bushings, has allowed engineers to dial in a unique, passive rear wheel steer characteristic, Saab ReAxs.

When cornering, the elasto-kinematics at the rear axle induce a very slight deflection of both rear wheels in the opposite direction to the steering input, i.e. toe-out for the outer wheel and toe-in for the inner wheel.

Depending on the radius of a bend and the consequent loadings at the rear axle, one degree of movement at the front wheels would typically produce a small but significant response of about one hundredth of a degree at the rear.

This is sufficient to prevent excessive understeer, where the driver is forced to apply progressively more steering lock to turn the front end of the car, increasing the scrub angles of the front tyres. The ReAxs characteristic overcomes this ‘crabbing ‘ effect, helping the tail of the car follow the direction of the front wheels, instead of its nose. For the driver, this gives the car a better balance, helping it turn in and respond more closely to steering inputs.

Suspension Design
The front suspension is by MacPherson struts with de-coupled top mountings, separating the damper and spring loadings, gas shock absorbers and a direct-acting anti-roll bar. The lower control arms are attached to a hydroformed (hollow section) front sub-frame, including a hydraulic bush on the rearmost mounting each side for optimum damping. For good directional stability and ride comfort, the layout is designed to be largely impervious to lateral forces and compliant longitudinally.

The independent rear suspension is also mounted on an isolated sub-frame and incorporates three transverse and one longitudinal link with an anti-roll bar. This layout allows a high degree of wheel movement control with good longitudinal compliance. Like the front suspension, bushings are stiff for lateral forces and relatively soft longitudinally. There is great scope for optimizing both handling and ride characteristics, as well as helping to prevent road noise entering the cabin.

Shear bushings are used in the rear shock absorber top mountings. These effectively dissipate vibrations from the road by absorbing small vertical up and down movements before they are transmitted directly into the mounting and the structure of the car. This feature improves ride quality and also plays an important role in further attenuating road noise.

To deliver the high standard of ride quality expected in this class of car, unsprung weight is reduced by using aluminum for the front wheel hubs and brake calipers, the lower control arms in the front suspension and the toe and lower links in the rear suspension.

Saab XWD
An active all-wheel-drive system (Saab XWD) is designed to optimize handling and stability in all driving conditions. It is offered as an option on Aero variants, together with an uprated 280 hp, 2.8V6 turbo engine. This state-of-the-art system includes innovative developments in wheel slip management the use of an electronically-controlled, rear limited-slip differential. It comes with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Saab XWD is a fully automatic, on-demand system capable of sending up to 100% of engine torque to the front or rear wheels whenever necessary. While offering sure-footed handling in low-grip conditions, its sophisticated operation also adds a further sporty dimension to the driving experience in all road conditions. Fine balancing of the drive torque between the front and rear axles raises the threshold at which ESP throttle and braking interventions are triggered, providing more scope for closer driver involvement.

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.

At take-off, the TTD is initially activated when the clutch plates are forced together under hydraulic pressure, thereby engaging the RDM. This pre-emptive function is a valuable improvement in current technology, which requires the detection of wheel slip before the TTD is activated. For the driver, the enhanced functionality gives maximum traction immediately for smooth, strong acceleration from rest without the possibility of any initial hesitation.

On the open road, drive torque is seamlessly and continuously varied between the axles by the control of a valve in the TTD, which increases or reduces the pressure on the wet clutch plates. When cornering, Saab XWD rewards the driver by providing enhanced, more finely balanced chassis dynamics. Data from the vehicle’s ABS/ESP sensors - measuring wheel speed, yaw rate and steering angle – is utilized and careful programming of Saab XWD enables the application of rear drive to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics,, improving stability and roadholding.

In highway cruising conditions, when traction or optimum grip is not an issue, only 5% to 10% of engine torque is typically transmitted to the rear wheels. This helps provide the driver with a measure of greater stability, while helping to save fuel.

The ultimate ‘icing on the cake’ with Saab XWD is the eLSD option. In this segment of the market, it is the first application of an electronically-controlled, multi-plate limited slip differential in combination with all-wheel-drive. It is installed alongside the RDM and operates via pressurized clutch plates on a principle similar to the larger TTD. In icy or wet split-friction conditions, for example, it uses input from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40% of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip.

The eLSD also gives the driver enhanced control when cornering hard or completing a high speed maneuver, such as a lane change, by momentarily applying more or less torque to either of the wheels to help the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels. In this way, the eLSD can keep the car better balanced and more tightly controlled without requiring ‘outside’ intervention from electronic stability aides.

Installation of Saab XWD includes the fitment of a new rear sub-frame to carry the RDM, revised rear suspension geometry and new wheel hubs for the drive shafts. The three piece prop-shaft runs through two bearings with constant velocity joints for smooth running with minimal ‘wind-up’. Wheelbase and rear track dimension are unaltered.

Braking System
In EU specification, three brake sizes are fitted according to engine power. For all four cylinder engines, except the 210 bhp version, 285 mm front (ventilated) and 278 mm solid rear discs are fitted. For the 210 bhp engine they are 302/292 mm (both ventilated) and for the Aero 2.8V6 turbo and 1.9TTiD engines these are increased to 314/292 mm

High speed braking stability sets new standards for Saab thanks to the ReAxs control of the rear suspension geometry. This effectively ‘preloads’ the rear tyres by applying some lateral force through toe-in as braking commences.

A four channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a Traction Control System (TCS), is standard fitment for all variants. An automatic brake boost feature, Mechanical Brake Assist (MBA), increases braking pressure from the master cylinder when the driver stamps hard on the brake pedal, stopping the vehicle quicker and activating the ABS more effectively.

Other electronic brake control functions also utilize the ABS wheel speed sensors and variable valving at each wheel. Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) ensures an optimum braking force is always applied at both axles simultaneously for maximum stability under heavy braking.

Cornering Brake Control (CBC) is activated when the car is cornering under heavy braking. Brake pressure is individually varied between all four wheels in order to keep the car stable, minimizing any snap oversteer or understeer characteristics.

All four brake discs have full size dust shields. These help to ensure braking performance is not impaired by large amounts of snow, mud or dust jamming the calipers.

Advanced Electronic Stability Program®
The fine chassis dynamics of the Saab 9-3 can be supplemented by a new generation Saab-tuned ESP® system, which is designed to gently counteract over-exuberance or misjudgements from the driver.

The latest, driver-selectable ESP® has been recalibrated and honed using dedicated software to match the behavior of the chassis. The 'intelligent' system is extremely progressive in use and is designed to function almost imperceptibly, avoiding harsh interventions when the chassis has already reached the limits of adhesion.

A yaw sensor in the center of the car detects movement around the vertical axis and a sensor on the steering column measures the steering angle being applied. Inputs from these sources are then correlated with the speed of the car.

The system is extremely flexible and it is programmed to execute whatever actions will most effectively prevent the onset of a loss of control. Depending upon the chassis's disposition, it is possible for braking to be applied via the ABS system to one, two or three wheels at once, or, if necessary, for the electronic throttle opening to be reduced.

Precise Steering
The power steering on Saab cars is widely acknowledged for achieving just the right balance between assistance and ‘feel’. In the straight ahead position there is virtually no assistance, in order the give the driver as much direct control as possible, and even at low speeds the driver’s feel for the road surface is never impaired

For variants with 1.8i naturally-aspirated gasoline and turbo diesel engines, an electro-hydraulic power steering system is fitted, which uses a pump driven by a computer-controlled electric motor as a further contribution to improved fuel consumption.

As a general indication of the tautness of the chassis, tests show its lateral acceleration response time – the speed at which all chassis response to a steering input is completed – is about 30 per cent faster than average for this size of car.

The hydraulic pump for the rack and pinion system is camshaft or belt-driven, depending on the engine variant, and the rack is mounted low down at the back of the front sub-frame. The geometry and tuning of the front and rear suspensions also combine to give the steering its distinctive feel, linearity and responsiveness. At just 2.97 turns from lock to lock, it is the quickest steering yet fitted to a Saab car.

Unique ‘Tri-fuel’ Engine Line-up

• Choice of 6 gasoline, 3 diesel and 2 Saab Biopower (E85) options
• Range-topping all-aluminum 280 hp/206 kW 2.8V6 Turbo with Saab XWD
• New 180 hp/132 kW two-stage turbo diesel: class-leading performance/economy
• Aluminum 2.0 turbos offering 150 hp/110 kW, 175 hp/129 kW or 210 hp/155 kW

All aluminum 2.8-liter V6 Turbo
This sophisticated engine has a 60º vee-angle between its cylinder banks for perfect balance and combines excellent multi-valve refinement with outstanding performance. Exclusive to Aero variants, it develops 280 hp/206 kW and exceptional torque of 400 Nm, when offered with Saab XWD, and 255 hp/188 kW and 350 Nm in front-wheel drive applications. The all aluminum construction provides a light and compact architecture, well suited to its transverse installation.

The cylinder heads, each with double chain-driven overhead camshafts operating four valves per cylinder, are of high specification aluminum. The design ensures enhanced heat resistance under 85 bar cylinder pressures, as well as minimum maintenance costs. The pistons have hard anodized ring grooves for durability and under-skirt oil jet cooling. The steel con-rods are strengthened by sinter-forging, a process that involves molding metal in a powered form. The exhaust valves are filled with sodium to further enhance cooling. The cylinders have cast iron liners and a bore/stoke of 89.00 / 74.8 mm.

For improved engine breathing, variable cam phasing on the inlet side is electronically controlled and hydraulically actuated, allowing continuously variable adjustment through 50º of crankshaft rotation. On the road, this translates to a more flexible power delivery and better fuel economy under different engine loads.

A die-cast aluminum oil sump is designed to increase structural stiffness and the strong, four-bearing crankshaft is made from micro-alloy forged steel, a specification more commonly seen in competition performance or diesel engines. Together with a dual-mass flywheel, these elements further reduce unwanted noise and vibration, ensuring smooth and refined performance.

The twin-scroll, water-cooled Mitsubishi TDO4-15TK turbocharger, operates at 0.6 bar maximum boost with intercooling and an integral by-pass valve. It is mounted centrally above the transmission and fed by both banks of cylinders. The use of two separate inlet tracts, one for each cylinder bank, separates the exhaust gas pulses, improving gas flow, reducing energy losses and raising turbocharger efficiency. The turbine wheel is made from a special high-grade steel alloy, commonly used in the turbocharged engines of world championship rally cars, which is resistant to erosion, cracking and creeping under high temperatures and centrifugal forces.

Also unique are double-skin exhaust manifolds, which are hydroformed with stainless steel liners to improve cold start emissions by minimizing heat absorption to the manifold. Air injection into each manifold for up to 30 seconds after a cold start also helps the central pre-catalyst, positioned upstream of the main catalytic converter, achieve 'light off', its effective working temperature, as early as possible.

The 32-bit engine management system, with software calibrated specifically for the Saab 9-3 application, utilizes a torque-based engine control strategy and direct coil-over-plug ignition with a robust engine-mounted control unit. Ignition timing, fuel injection, turbo boost pressure, air mass measurement and the throttle setting are all key engine functions controlled by the software.

The sophisticated control strategy is designed to deliver smooth performance in all driving conditions. For two-wheel drive, it can modulate engine torque in low-traction conditions, helping provide confident, sure-footed driving. Variable fuel pressure further contributes to smooth idle and driving characteristics.

For driving comfort, control of the electronic throttle through the movement of the accelerator pedal is programmed to be sensitive to different driving conditions, with greater pedal movement introduced at lower vehicle speeds, such as when maneuvering or parking. At low engine speeds, the engine control system also brings the turbo in quickly by momentarily opening the throttle slightly more than requested by the driver.

In 280 hp/ 206 kW or 255 hp/ 188 kW specification, maximum torque is generated from just 1,800 rpm all the way to 5,000 rpm, with 90 per cent of this value available from an exceptionally low 1,500 rpm. Under a full throttle load at take-off or low engine speeds, 90 per cent of maximum acceleration is delivered within one second.

The fast, but controlled, torque build-up immediately above the 720 rpm idle speed is delivered with a turbine-like smoothness, giving impressive on the road performance. The 9-3 Aero Sport Sedan can accomplish the zero to 100 kph dash in a rapid 6.7 seconds (FWD) or 6.3 seconds (projected) with Saab XWD, new performance benchmarks for Saab. 80-120 kph acceleration in fifth gear is even more impressive, taking just 7.9 seconds (FWD) with the same figure projected for Saab XWD. Careful tuning of the Aero's twin sports exhausts downstream of the main catalyst adds a distinctive, exhilarating engine note.

New Two-stage Turbo Diesel Sets Class Benchmark
The new 9-3 range features the introduction of a powerful new four cylinder diesel engine with a unique two-stage turbocharging system, a world ‘first’ in the premium segment, giving class-leading levels of efficiency.

The 1.9-liter, 16-valve engine, 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 5.9 l/100k projected in the Sport Sedan, this engine also offers excellent economy, together with in-gear performance on a par with the 2.8V6 turbo gasoline engine

The two-stage turbocharger housing is integrated with the exhaust manifold and contains two turbochargers of different sizes. The pair of turbine/compressor wheels are sequentially mounted and each is able to by-pass the input and output feeds of the other, while also being able to operate in tandem

This arrangement provides a driver with ‘the best of both worlds’: good, instant torque at low engine speeds - via the low-inertia small turbo when the exhaust pressure is light - and strong ‘top end’ power at higher revolutions, when the bigger turbo is engaged.

Saab’s two-stage turbocharging uses a system of by-pass valves that directs the exhaust gas stream between the two turbine wheels and also separates the air intake charge from the compressors. From tick-over to 1,500 rpm the exhaust feeds only the small turbo. Between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm the flow is split between both turbines, giving stronger boost and ensuring a smooth transition phase to full power operation, above 3,000 rpm, when only the larger turbo is engaged.

The compact design provides more efficient packaging than systems using two separate turbochargers linked together externally in series. It ensures that the complex control and regulation of gas flows on both the exhaust turbine and intake compressor sides is achieved with a minimal number of seals and connections.

The TTiD engine is a substantial development of the current 16-valve 1.9TiD unit, using common rail, direct and multiple fuel injection. It operates with a maximum boost pressure of 1.8 bar (1.4 bar for the current engine) together with a slightly lower compression ratio of 16.5: 1 (17.5:1). The cast-iron block, alloy cylinder head and all internal components are strengthened as necessary to withstand the higher thermal pressures.

The exhaust gas re-circulation (EGR) system is characterized by extremely efficient cooling and now includes an electronically controlled by-pass for improved emissions. This feature, together with the fitment of a maintenance-free exhaust particulate filter, is expected to ensure compliance with more stringent future Euro 5 emissions.

Other technical enhancements include the adoption of a larger air-to-air intercooler, for better cooling of the intake charge; the introduction of more efficient pre-heating elements inside the cylinder head for faster starting in cold conditions; and the use of a weight saving plastic intake manifold.

The Saab TTiD engine meets a growing demand from drivers unwilling to sacrifice performance in the interests of fuel economy. With power characteristics typical of a much larger engine, it is an example of Saab’s commitment to ‘right-sizing’, the achievement of ‘big’ engine performance without the usual drawbacks, such as extra weight, bulk and higher fuel consumption.

In recognition of its outstanding performance, the Saab TTiD engine is available in Aero specification, as well as Linear and Vector. It comes with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions,

This new engine is offered in addition to current single turbo versions, configured for 150 hp/110 kW (16 valves) or 120 hp/88 kW (8 valves). These also offer strong torque of 320 Nm or 280 Nm, between 2,000 and 2,750 rpm, with 90 per cent of these values generated between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm.

A variable geometry (VNT) turbocharger is used for good low-end response, together with a dual-mass flywheel for greater running refinement. The weight-saving intake manifold is in pressure cast aluminum and electronically-controlled exhaust gas re-circulation (EGR) is used for quick warm-up and low emissions. A maintenance-free exhaust particulate filter is also available.

The 150 hp (110 kW) version is focused more on performance. In-gear acceleration, the most important feature for everyday driving, is on a par with the 210 hp (155 kW) gasoline engine and the zero to 100 kph dash in the sedan is accomplished in a brisk 9.5 seconds. The 120 hp (88 kW), 8-valve version majors on the cost of ownership, returning 5.4 liters/100 km over the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 147 gms/km.

An electro/hydraulic power steering system is fitted with the all three diesel engines. This helps to further optimize fuel consumption by utilizing electric power during low-speed maneuvering, when more steering assistance is required, as well as minimizing mechanical losses.

Lightweight 2.0-liter Turbo, choice of three power ratings
The compact, all-aluminum, four cylinder 2.0-liter gasoline engine has a block perfectly ‘square’ in configuration, with a bore and stroke of 86 mm, and carries a unique Saab four-valve cylinder head, maintenance-free chain-driven camshafts, counter-rotating balancer shafts, for improved refinement, and an integrated oil cooler. It is controlled by the latest Trionic 8 version of Saab’s own, in-house engine management system, among the most sophisticated of its kind in commercial production.

All main internal components are unique to Saab's turbocharged application. These include a five-bearing forged steel crankshaft, strengthened con-rods, redesigned pistons and gudgeon pins, piston oil cooling jets and reprofiled camshafts. The cylinder head is a unique alloy casting optimized for turbocharging, with substantially revised inlet porting, modified inlet valves and sodium-filled exhaust valves.

A major innovation for Saab is the in-board location of the turbocharger, behind the transversely installed engine. This position allows an even quicker warm-up for the front exhaust catalyst, giving improved fuel consumption and lower cold start emissions, as well as benefiting weight distribution.

A Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger, with an integrated by-pass valve, is used together with intercooling in all applications. It operates at 0.5, 0.7 and 0.85 bar maximum boost pressures, respectively, for the 150 hp (110 kW), 175 hp (129 kW) and 210 hp (155 kW) engines. The latter also has altered valve timing.

The power characteristics of all variants help set new Saab standards for four cylinder engine refinement, throttle response and progressive torque delivery, as well as yielding competitive fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions. In common with all Saab engines, outstanding levels of torque are generated at low engine speeds, with at least 90 per cent of peak values available from just below 2,000 rpm.

Maximum power and torque figures are as follows:
150 hp (110kW) at 5,500 rpm, 240 Nm at 2,000 - 3,500 rpm. (Badged 1.8t)
175 hp (129 kW) at 5,500 rpm, 265 Nm at 2,500 – 3,500 rpm. (Badged 2.0t).
210 hp (155 kW) at 5,300 rpm, 300 Nm at 2,500 - 4,000 rpm. (Badged 2.0T).

The 32-bit Saab Trionic 8 engine management system, incorporating direct ignition, is torque-based and specifically developed to meet to the needs of turbocharged engines. In common with the 2.8V6 turbo engine management system, it controls ignition timing, fuel injection, turbo boost pressure, air mass measurement and the throttle setting.

The torque delivery of the engine is noticeably ‘linear’, encouraging the driver to hold intermediate gears for longer periods. Under acceleration, Trionic will control engine torque if there is insufficient grip available at a requested throttle opening and it will also cushion the transitory effects of large accelerator pedal movements in order to maintain a smooth power delivery. As with the 2.8V6 turbo engine, the degree of required pedal movement is related to the driving situation and the control of the electronic throttle is optimized for a quick turbo response.

Saab Trionic 8 is unique in using the spark plugs as sensors to monitor ionization rates during ignition. It is able to individually control the combustion process for each cylinder, detecting any combustion malfunction before it may become critical.

Naturally-aspirated 1.8i option
The appeal of the Sport Sedan and SportCombi is broadened by a naturally-aspirated 1.8-liter engine choice in Linear and Vector specifications. The 122 hp (90 kW), 16-valve unit, with direct ignition by Bosch and an aluminum cylinder head and close-coupled catalyst, is focused on delivering excellent fuel economy, with low emissions and running costs, whilst retaining lively performance.

The use of an electronic throttle and a variable length intake manifold helpsdeliver a key Saab driving characteristic - strongly perceived low and mid-range pulling power. At least 90 per cent of maximum torque (167 Nm at 3,800 rpm) is generated between 2,400 and 5,700 rpm, while zero to 100 kph acceleration in 11.5 seconds still feels adequate.

With service intervals up to two years, or 30,000 km, and lower insurance groupings, scheduled running costs will be competitively low. An electro-hydraulic power steering system is also fitted as standard with this engine, minimizing mechanical losses and contributing to lower fuel consumption.

This engine, badged '1.8i', is available only with a five-speed manual transmission and brings the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi within the budgets of more cost-conscious drivers who still seek a premium-class driving experience.

Unique Saab BioPower Choice
Saab leads the premium segment in offering 'flex-fuel' BioPower engines, which can run on gasoline and/or bioethanol (E85), a renewable fuel with a reduced CO2 impact. As well as being kinder to the environment, Saab BioPower is also the only flex-fuel technology that uses turbocharging to deliver increased power and performance.. .

In combining the benefits of 'going green' with the enjoyment of even sportier performance, the development of BioPower reflects Saab's brand values. It also offers a very practical solution to the environmental needs of customers because a BioPower engine can run on gasoline, without adjustment from the driver, in any proportion if E85 fuel (85% bioethanol/15% gasoline) is not available. With BioPower there is no loss of luggage space or additional weight because the same standard tank is used for both fuels.

The new Saab 9-3 range now features the introduction of a 2.0t BioPower engine, in addition to the current version. Running on E85, the 2.0t BioPower engine delivers 14% more maximum power (200 hp/ 147 kW.v 175 hp/ 129 kW) and 13% more torque (300 v 265 Nm). In the Sport Sedan, this gives projected zero to 100 kph acceleration in 7.9 sec and 80 to 120 kph in fifth gear in 10.0sec, compared to 8.5 sec and 11.1 sec, respectively, on gasoline.

On E85, the current BioPower engine gives 17% more maximum power (175 hp/129 kW v 150 hp/110 kW) and 10% more torque (265 v 240 Nm). In the Sport Sedan, that translates to zero to 100 kph acceleration in 8.4 sec and 80 to 120 kph in fifth gear in 13.9 sec, compared to 9.5 sec and 15.0 sec, respectively, on gasoline.

E85 has a higher octane rating (104 RON) than gasoline (95 RON), and turbocharging with Saab BioPower allows the use of a higher boost pressure and more advanced ignition timing than is possible with gasoline. This gives more engine power, without risk of harmful 'knocking' or pre-detonation.

Saab’s 32-bit Trionic 8 engine management system controls the throttle setting, ignition timing, fuel injection, air mass and turbo boost pressure. It is a powerful platform that has facilitated software re-programming to accommodate the different ignition timing and fuel/air mixture requirements of E85. The only hardware modifications necessary to the all-aluminum engine are the fitment of more durable valves and valve seats. Bioethanol-compatible materials are also used in the fuel system, including the tank, pump, lines and connectors.

Trionic monitors fuel quality after every visit to the filling station and automatically makes any adjustments necessary for running on E85 and/or gasoline in any combination.

Bioethanol is produced from a wide range of agricultural crops and biomass. Unlike gasoline, its consumption does not raise atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), the main 'greenhouse' gas that contributes to climate change. This is because emissions during driving are balanced by the amount of CO2 that is removed from the atmosphere when crops for conversion are grown. Bioethanol is sold in Sweden, and a growing number of other European markets, as E85 fuel.

Advanced Transmissions
A six-speed automatic transmission is offered with the 2.8V6 Turbo and all three turbo diesel engines. A five-speed version is available on all other gasoline turbo engines, with an additional '5+2' transmission, exclusive to the 210 hp (155 kW) unit, introducing two intermediate gears, '2.5' and '3.5', for greater access to acceleration on kick-down.

All transmissions include ‘Saab Sentronic’, a sequential manual gearshift giving closer driver involvement. When the shift lever is moved across the gate to ‘manual’ Sentronic mode, ‘up’ and ‘down’ changes can be made with full lock-up in 3/4/5 or 6th gears. The process can be taken a step further by the option of steering wheel buttons, which bring gear shifting right to the fingertips of the driver.

A ‘Sport Mode’ can also be activated via an instrument panel button which aligns automatic gear selection more closely with the intentions of the driver. If the driver momentarily lifts of the throttle, the current gear will be held for more effective engine braking and a quicker acceleration when required. Downshifts are also more closely matched to the rate of vehicle deceleration under braking.

In automatic mode, these 'smart' transmissions from Asin AW are adaptive to driver usage patterns and prevailing road conditions, fully exploiting Saab turbo power characteristics. The transmission can sense changes in engine performance, engine load, road gradient or altitude and will quickly find the ‘right’ gear without any irritating ‘hunting’.

A close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox is standard fitment for the 2.8V6 Turbo and the 210 hp (155 kW) and 175 hp (129 kW) engines. With a wider set of gear ratios, it is also standard for the diesel engines, including a taller final drive for the 8-valve version in order to optimize fuel consumption. The gearbox has dual output shafts for compact design and lower transmission vibrations.

On all manual gearboxes, gear change quality is enhanced by the adoption of a cable linkage, instead of rods, from the gear lever. The driver enjoys a faster change with a much smoother and more positive feel. Noise resonance and vibration are also reduced.

Firm Foundations

Highlights include:
• New standards in torsional rigidity
• Stable platform for excellent noise suppression, handling and crashworthiness
• About 60 per cent of bodyweight in HS/UHS steel
• Second-generation ‘crash boxes’ help prevent body damage
• Multiplex digital signal network for fast control of all major functions
• Powerful screen washing system

The body structures of the 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi are the stiffest yet produced by Saab, providing solid foundations on which their s exemplary handling, ride and safety characteristics are built.

The use of high-grade steels, tailored blanks, laser welding, the galvanizing of all external components and advanced joint techniques has produced extremely strong and durable structures. Effective ‘crash boxes’ in the front bumper help to minimize body damage in impacts up to 15 kph.

The power of the lighting system, which includes the option of bi-xenon headlamps, is in the fine tradition of Saab cars, as is the efficiency of the windscreen wipers and washing systems.

Structural Benefits
Exceptional levels of structural stiffness were an essential requirement in the design of the 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi. It is high torsional rigidity that helps give that reassuring ‘hewn for solid’ feel, which is communicated every time a door is closed or the car negotiates a poor road surface. And it makes a major contribution to eliminating squeaks and rattles, vibrations and resonance.

A stiff body is also a prerequisite for the work of chassis engineers. The car’s handling can only be effectively honed through its suspension and steering if the structure on which all these components exert loadings is solid and predictable.

Finally, but probably most importantly, the car’s ability to withstand a heavy impact is largely due to the strength of its passenger compartment and the ability of the body structure’s crumple zones to prevent energy reaching it.

Structural Strength
The body structure of the Sport Sedan and SportCombi’ is essentially a unitary construction fabricated from steel pressings and beams, on which is mounted a front sub-frame - carrying the engine, gearbox and lower front suspension mountings - and a rear sub-frame, carrying the rear suspension. Although a high level of structural stiffness was an essential requirement, this had to be balanced against the need to reduce unnecessary weight in the interests of fuel economy and achieving responsive handling characteristics.
The Sport Sedan has an exceptional torsional rigidity of 22,000 Nm/degree of deflection, while the SportCombi’s is only 6.6 per cent less than that of the Sport Sedan, despite the extended rear roof and the addition of a large rear tailgate opening. To put these figures in perspective, the body structures are as strong as a meter long rod, fixed at one end, would need to be in order to bend just one degree under the weight of fully-laden large car placed on the other end!

About 60 per cent of the car’s body weight is composed of high strength or ultra high strength steel, most of which is concentrated in the construction of the central passenger safety cage, where all main beams have welded closed sections for additional strength.

In all, about two-thirds of the body parts in the Sport Sedan and SportCombi play a structural role, although the key to the performance of the structure is how all these elements connect and interact in sharing the load-bearing task. The strength of a good design is far more than simply the sum of its parts.

To calculate how loads can be distributed in the most efficient way, structural engineers used CAD techniques and finite element modeling (FEM) with a resolution of up to 850,000 elements, or cells, representing the car’s structure. Each body component is designed to contribute to structural integrity without being overloaded and structure-borne noise radiation from the engine, transmission and suspension is minimized.

Special attention was devoted to the location of seams and joints. It is pointless using high strength steels for different sections if the technique used to join them together is not at least as strong. For example, there are no joints at any of the corners of the safety cage, where stresses are likely to be greatest. Instead, joints between beams are carefully welded in place on straight sections with overlaps of at least 20 mm.

In order to be sure that extra strength does not necessarily mean extra weight, Saab engineers made great use of new technology in specifying ‘tailored blanks’ for large structural components. For example, the two main bearers which extend from the front of the car to the rear bulkhead are made from pressings of high strength steel. These are produced to different thicknesses, according to the localized loading demands at any point in the car’s structure. In other words, the extra strength or weight is located only where it is required.

The SportCombi was designed alongside the Sport Sedan and Convertible so engineers were able to integrate the requirements for a strong five-door body from the very beginning of the 9-3 project. To compensate for the loss of the cross bracing behind a sedan's rear seat, the SportCombi features reinforcement to the base of the C-pillars and the addition of sub-structures or 'rings', each connecting the top and bottom of the C and D-pillars with transverse beams in the roof and across the floor. These 'rings' are then linked longitudinally by two beams in the roof, two in the cargo floor and one behind each side of the rear bodywork.
On both the Sedan and SportCombi there are additional bracings above the rear wheel housings to provide a structure that is more than a match for premium class competitors, despite some potential loss of stiffness through the provision of a split/fold rear seat.

Outer Body
Large single 'monoside' body pressings accommodate inset-mounted doors for good sealing and fine gap tolerances. Substantial ultra high strength steel door beams play an important role in side impact protection. The bottom edges of the doors also overlap and interlock with the strong, reinforced side sills, allowing heavy impact forces to be spread by engaging as much of the neighboring body structure as possible.

To save weight without compromising strength, the hood, rear bumper beam and the tailgate of the SportCombi are made from aluminum

Both front and rear bumper assemblies are designed to be ‘self-repairing’, in that they can absorb impacts up to 8 kph, minimizing damage and the need for repair. The bumper ‘skin’ is simple and quick to replace after a minor collision. For higher speed impacts, Saab was first to introduce deformable ‘crash boxes’ behind the front bumper on the second generation Saab 900 in 1993. These are intended to absorb and contain relatively ‘low speed’ impact forces in order to prevent damage to more expensive bodywork components.

Other manufacturers have now adopted crash boxes but, in the in the 9-3 range, the technique is perfected still further. No less than 103 computer simulations were carried out to ensure their effectiveness; a testimony to the extreme attention to detail that went into finalizing the new structures.

The finished design is an octagon shape with a conical profile and ‘concertina’ sections that will protect the structure of the car, including its front body panels, from damage in impacts up to 15 kph. The boxes are now bolted and only lightly welded to the front beam to make their replacement even easier.

The design of the Sport Sedan’s trunk lid was also the subject of detailed research and the solution adopted is typically Saab. For owners to be able to exploit the load carrying capabilities of a 60/40 folding seat, it was important that trunk opening was as large as possible. That is why the design team chose ‘swan neck’ hinges for the once piece trunk lid

The use of a more conventional strut and multi-link pivot arrangement would have resulted in an unacceptable 15 per cent reduction in opening width, worth 10 cm. The spring-loaded ‘swan-neck’ hinges, in fact, give an even easier, almost ‘weightless’ opening and closing action.

For the SportCombi, the lightly weighted tailgate that opens down to bumper level, its damper rods completely hidden in the roof to allow a clear, uncluttered opening.

Electrical and electronic architecture
The entire electrical and electronic network uses databus transmission, often referred to a ‘multiplexing’. In this way, a CANBUS (Controller Area Network) connects groups of electrical subsystems, using just one or two wires with microprocessors, transistors and LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) to replace a complicated wiring harness and all its associated relays, switches and bulbs.

CANBUS technology offers great benefits in weight saving, reliability and data transmission capacity. It is used to connect the car’s main subsystems: powertrain, chassis, body, ‘infotainment’, telematics, navigation and climate and comfort.

A battery of sensors are the ‘nerve endings’ of the Sport Sedan and SportCombi and the data they provide is dispatched as packages of digital signals, or ‘buses’, along three information ‘highways’, stopping where required at 44 sub-stations, or microprocessors, for analysis and subsequent action. A powerful control module governs each of these highways and their sub-stations; all three integrated with each other to ensure there are no ‘traffic jams’ or conflicting requirements.

If all this functionality were to be achieved using a traditional, complex wiring harness, it would weigh twice as much, more than 40 kilos, and be twice as long, at 1,600 meters.

A single wire highway, or ‘low speed’ Bus, with a capacity of 33 Kbytes per second, connects functions within the car: the ignition switch, steering column lock, airbags, the main instrument panel, interior lighting, doors, mirrors, windows, security alarm, gear shift position and, where fitted, the sunroof, electrically-operated seats and parking assistance.

Powertrain control, the engine management system, ABS, TCS, ESP and related functions are all connected by a second, dual wire, ‘high speed’ Bus, with a transmission capacity 15 times greater at 500 Kbytes per second.

The third highway is utilized by all 'infotainment' systems, the Bluetooth™ Phone Integration System (BPIS), the GPS navigation system with DVD reader and an advanced voice recognition (AVR) function. These systems are described further in the ‘Interior Design and Features’ section.

The fast moving world of information technology is likely to place increasing demands on the ‘in-car’ time of drivers and passengers and the Saab 9-3 is configured to accommodate all likely future developments in digital communication to and from the car.

Superior Lighting
The strong lighting performance of Saab cars is almost as widely acclaimed as their reputation for safety. Hardly surprising, as good night-time visibility is, of course, an essential element of driving safety.

The Saab 9-3’s headlamps are housed within neatly integrated units, made from molded clear plastic, which is lighter and less prone to stone chips, cracking and condensation than glass.

The standard equipment headlamps use halogen bulbs behind projector units for excellent illumination. Powerful bi-xenon lights are an option for all variants. .These gas discharge bulbs give an extremely bright, much whiter light than halogen units. Saab was among the first manufacturers to offer this technology for both dipped and main beam – hence the term, bi-xenon. Where a normal halogen bulb will emit 1,500 lumens of lighting, a xenon unit will give 3,200 lumens, more than twice as much power, giving a spread of light 60 per cent better.

The effective control of such a powerful beam is essential for the benefit of fellow road users, as well as the driver, and bi-xenon lights have a dynamic, self-leveling function as standard. Under acceleration or braking, sensors detect body motion at the front of the car and electric motors in the headlamp units automatically adjust the height of the beam to compensate for any changes in the attitude of the body. As a further refinement, steering linked bi-xenon lights can also be specified to give an improved field of vision when cornering.

The performance of headlamps, no matter how powerful, is badly compromised if the lenses become caked in grime. Powerful spray jets, working at 3.5 bar pressure, keep the plastic units clean.

At the rear of the car, the single fog light automatically disconnects when the ignition is switched off, an added precaution to prevent it being inadvertently left on when no longer necessary.

The high level rear brake light is an LED unit, as tests show this illuminates more quickly than a conventional bulb, giving a more efficient warning signal.

Cleaning power
Keeping a clear windscreen is vital for driving safety and the large wipers are linked to a powerful battery of three pairs of washer jets, all working under high pressure with twice the power of other systems on the market. It is cleaning power designed to shift the most stubborn of deposits.

In true Saab tradition, the 5.0 liter washer reservoir is exceptionally large, with two liters more capacity than normal. User trials show that jets working at such high pressure do not, in fact, require more washer fluid because they are generally used in shorter bursts.
The windshield wipers are two-speed with an infinitely variable intermittent wipe. An automatic rain-sensing operation is available as an option, including driver adjustment for sensitivity.

Optimized through Real-life Experience

• Crash test configurations based on ‘real-life’ research
• Safety structure with front and rear crumple zones
• Second generation Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR) for front seats
• Roof rail airbags for side and severe frontal impacts
• Sophisticated sensing for airbag/seat-belt deployment

Saab Automobile AB (Saab) has a long tradition of successful work with vehicle safety. In surveys of real-life collisions made by the US Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) and the Swedish insurance company, Folksam, many Saab cars have scored well, several times being ranked best in their segment. In EuroNCAP crash tests, the Saab 9-5 Sedan, 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-3 Convertible have all achieved a maximum five star rating. In the United State, the 9-3 Sport Sedan is also the first car with standard safety equipment to receive a “Double Best Pick” rating in crash test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

For Saab, the pursuit of improved safety is a never-ending quest and the Saab 9-3 product program has given safety engineers another opportunity to apply the lessons of real-life safety.

Crash impact resistance benefits from a number of structural systems first seen on the larger 9-5 model and the introduction of additional occupant protection measures, including second generation Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR) and Roof Rail Airbags.

‘Real-Life’ Crash Configurations
Computer simulations and crash testing at Saab are designed to replicate what happens in real collisions on real roads, based on the findings of a database covering more than 6,100 real-life accidents, including the Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5, on Swedish roads.

During the Saab 9-3 product development program, the structural design of the car and the deployment of its occupant protection systems were evaluated not only in consumer and legally required crash tests, but also in a large number of additional in-house configurations, taking occupants of different sizes into consideration. Prototype tests were carried out in the laboratory and outdoors in a wide range of speeds and configurations.

However, advanced crash simulations, using finite element methods (FEM) and drawing on Saab's extensive experience, help to find solutions before any prototypes are built. Support by simulation is used throughout the development process in structural design, as well as for the tuning of occupant protection systems, such as seat-belts and airbags. As a result, crash tests are increasingly used as a physical means of verifying what is already known.

Body Structure
The steel safety structure of the 9-3’s passenger compartment is fabricated mainly from high strength steel. Most beam sections are completely closed for additional strength and all joints are designed to help prevent tearing under severe impacts.

The front and rear crumple zones are made of carefully shaped steel members designed to help absorb, distribute and deflect impact energy away from the passenger compartment.

Three distinct load paths on each side of the front structure are designed to help channel impact forces through the front sub-frame, along the longitudinal members and through the upper rail into the A-pillar. The longitudinal members have large sections that extend right through the floor of the car as far as the rear seat. This design is a development of the concept first seen on the Saab 9-5.

The three load paths are connected transversely via cross-members, the most important of which is the bumper beam. This helps to distribute impact forces across and through the front structure, to help provide a controlled and predictable deformation in a wide range of frontal collisions. The beam is made from boron alloy steel, up to six times stronger than plain steel with a very high yield strength of 900 Newtons per square millimeter.

To help provide side impact protection, the B-pillar, side sills and door beams behave as a single, integrated structure, increasing the likelihood of deformation in a controlled and predictable way. A key part of this strategy is the ‘pendulum’ movement for the B-pillar, a concept also used on the 9-5.

In effect, the B-pillar is ‘hinged’ from the roof rail of the passenger compartment. It has strengthened upper and middle sections so that, in an impact, it is designed to bend inwards at the bottom, helping to deflect lateral forces downwards towards the floor, away from the more sensitive occupant head and chest areas. The door beams are designed to help support this structure and the bottoms of the doors also interlock with the reinforced side sills so that the entire side structure is designed to perform a load-sharing role.

The door beams are also designed to help provide a major load-bearing function in side impacts against narrow objects, such as a tree or telegraph pole, when the B-pillar is not engaged.

At the rear, two more longitudinal members are designed to buckle and deform in a progressive manner to help protect the passenger compartment in a rear end collision. They also assist in dissipating crash energy towards the C-pillars. The fuel tank is mounted low down in front of the rear axle, away from any likely point of impact.

Second Generation Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR)
Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR) are fitted as standard to the front seats. Crash investigation findings published by the US Journal of Trauma, and comparative tests by the US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Thatcham insurance research center in the UK, have shown the SAHR to be extremely effective in helping to prevent serious neck injury to front seat occupants in the event of a rear-end collision. The Journal of Trauma published a Saab study that found a remarkable 75 per cent reduction in severe neck injuries when comparing Saab cars fitted with SAHR against older Saab models not equipped with the SAHR system.

The Saab 9-3 product line features a ‘second generation’ version for even faster activation in rear impacts at lower speeds. The head restraint is activated as soon as the occupant's lower back is pressed into the seatback by the effect of inertia during a rear impact.

The restraint is fixed to the top of the seat-back frame, which is designed to pivot at its mid-point. As the occupant’s lower back comes into contact with the bottom of the seatback, the upper half of the frame carrying the head restraint is designed to move forward and upward, towards the occupant's head. In a rear end collision, this mechanism helps prevent neck injury by reducing the amount of head movement relative to the torso.

The SAHR system is entirely mechanical and after activation the head restraint automatically springs back to its passive position, ready for future use.

Roof Rail Airbags and Front Side Airbags
Roof-mounted airbags are installed on each side, between the A and C-pillars, in the interior headlining above the side windows. These are designed to help provide head protection for both front and rear seat occupants throughout an entire crash sequence. Side airbags, mounted in the outboard edges of both front seatbacks, are designed to help provide thorax protection.

Both are activated in side impacts, together with seat-belt pre-tensioning, and also in severe frontal impacts which require stage 2 activation of the front airbags. This helps provide head and body protection in the event of any subsequent secondary impact or an eventual roll.

To improve cushion kinematics during inflation, the roof rail airbags are inflated outwards from the central B-pillar area. They remain inflated for up to three seconds in order to help prevent an occupant's head striking the A, B, or C-pillar, or intruding exterior objects, during the course of an impact sequence.

For sophisticated impact sensing and ‘intelligent’ airbag deployment, there are two impact sensors in each side of the car, one in the sill near the B-pillar and the other in the lower part of the C-pillar. These sensors measure acceleration rates, a decision on airbag deployment being taken by the central sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) in a few milliseconds.

Dual Stage Front Airbags
These are designed to help provide an 'occupant-friendly' deployment in frontal impacts.

Two sensors in the front bumper beam detect impact severity, a sensor in the seat track communicates the seating position and a switch in the seat-belt buckles indicates whether or not the belts are being worn. This data is sent to the centrally located SDM which, within milliseconds, chooses between activation of the belt pre-tensioners alone, or in combination with stage 1 or stage 2 inflation of the airbags. In a severe impact, where stage 2 of the front airbag is used, the roof rail airbag is also designed todeploy for additional head protection.

A collision with a relatively low level of impact energy would, for example, likely require less airbag pressure and, therefore, a slower rate of inflation than a more severe, high-energy impact. A short driver sitting close to the steering wheel also benefits from a softer, lower pressure inflation.

Seat-belt Load Limiter and Reminder System
Despite the use of airbags, seat-belts are still the single most important occupant restraint system and three-point belts are provided for all seating positions, including the middle of the rear seat.

For both front occupants, there are belt pre-tensioners and load limiting functions to help remove belt slack and reduce belt loads in more significant collisions. The pre-tensioner is mounted on the belt retractor and is activated by a signal from the airbag sensing system, igniting a small pyrotechnic charge that retracts the belt.

The load limiting function consists of a torsion bar inside the retractor that, at a pre-determined load level, will start to deform helping to reduce the belt load.

Saab has used a seat-belt reminder function since 1974 and, to further emphasize the importance of belt usage, the system in the 9-3 range independently informs and reminds the driver and the front passenger of non belt usage.

Occupant-friendly Interior
A great deal of experience has gone into making the interior surfaces and materials more ‘occupant-friendly’. In particular, the front areas of the cabin near the knee and lower leg are well bolstered to help prevent occupant injury. The driver’s pedals are designed to break away in a severe impact and the steering column is also collapsible.

Passenger safety is the main reason why interior door armrests and inner door handles are recessed. It is also one of the reasons why the Saan 9-3, in common with most other Saab cars, has a floor-mounted ignition switch, well away from sensitive knee and leg areas.

Driving Safety
It is, of course, preferable to be abler to avoid becoming involved in any road collision. Here the 9-3’s excellent chassis dynamics, steering and brakes helpkeep the driver in control and, therefore, less likely to be involved in, or better able to avoid, a collision.

Driving safety is also advanced by the availability of anElectronic Stability Program (ESP®), Mechanical Brake Assistance (MBA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC). These features are described in the Chassis section.

Optional cornering bi-xenon headlights provide better night vision. The steering-linked bulbs can swivel up to 15 degrees when negotiating a bend or corner above 15 kph. In highway driving above 120 kph, the low beam is also automatically raised slightly for improved illumination without dazzling on-coming drivers.

Improved driving safety also involves reducing the potential for driver distraction and the 9-3 features Saab ComSense functionality, which uses the concept of 'dynamic workload management'. This is described in the Interior Features section.

A further aid is the optional Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This warns the driver if pressure in any of the tires drops below the recommended level. Sensors in the valves initiate a radio signal and a warning message is illuminated in the main instrument display. TPMS is an option for Aero variants and comes as standard when 18-inch wheels are specified.

Secure Ownership Experience

• Most secure Saab ever
• Highly rated by Insurers
• Sophisticated immobilization, anti-theft and alarm systems
• Useful ‘comfort and convenience’ functions

The 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi are the most secure Saabs ever built, deploying an arsenal of anti-theft devices that includes all practical technology that is currently available. The security systems are intended to prevent the car being stolen or have items taken from it. There are also a number of useful operational features designed to make everyday use of the Saab 9-3 easy, convenient and rewarding.

Highly rated by Insurers
Representatives of leading insurance companies in Sweden and elsewhere were consulted throughout the development of security systems for the 9-3 product line. They were asked to suggest the most effective measures available, as well as being able to examine and assess the car’s security performance. As evidence of the success of this work, the British insurance industry’s Thatcham research center has awarded the Sport Sedan a maximum five star rating for ‘theft of the vehicle’ and four stars for ‘theft from the vehicle’.

Saab is confident that such close liaison with insurance industry experts contributes to highly competitive insurance groupings and reduced insurance costs for owners.

Anti-Intrusion Measures
The front passenger door is fitted with a ‘freewheeling’ lock cylinder, which will immediately disengage from the door unlocking mechanism if any device, other than the correct key, is inserted. Efficient ‘shielding’ of the locks inside the doors also prevents tampering with specialist ‘tools’ and deadbolts for all four doors make it virtually impossible for a would-be thief to forcibly break in.

Even if a thief were to gain entry, there would be little point in removing any of the car’s ‘infotainment’ systems. Apart from being uniquely designed to fit only a Saab car, they are electronically ‘married’ to their original ‘host’ car. They could only function in another Saab after being re-programmed at a Saab dealer.

A large number of major components also have security marking to enable the police to trace them back to the car if they are recovered following a theft.

Anti Car Theft
To prevent the car itself being stolen, the immobilizer system uses both an electrical steering column lock and disablement of the engine management system.

When the ignition key is inserted in the floor-mounted switch, a transponder sends a signal to a control unit in the module, which then communicates with all systems in the car through the central integrated control module. The ‘start’ message is encrypted in a complex, rolling code from the key’s transponder which would take an estimated eight years to ‘crack’ in the unlikely event of a would-be thief making the correct electronic connections.

Further measures have also been taken to combat the so-called professional thief, who may be stealing a car to order for resale. Barriers, or ‘firewalls’ have been put in place to protect the car’s electronic systems from digital intrusion with illegal scanning devices.

As the car’s original key is such a vital component in the chain of security precautions, confidential measures have been put in place at Saab dealers to ensure there is no fraudulent issue of a replacement or duplicate key.

Alarm system
As a further back-up to the car’s perimeter security features, an advanced alarm system can also be specified. This engages a siren and flashing lights to discourage anyone from entering or trying to move the car.

The alarm will be activated if any illegal attempt is made to open the hood, doors, trunk lid or tailgate. A ‘tilt’ sensor will also sound the alarm if the car is lifted in any direction, such as during an attempt to tow it away. Inside the car, an extremely sensitive ultrasonic beam will detect any movement, including pieces of flying glass or an arm reaching inside following a break-in. The SportCombi also has glass break sensors in all the rear windows to ensure that any attempt to reach the load space is detected.

A further refinement is the use of a separate battery to power the alarm system. This is hidden in the car to prevent illegal tampering, making it impossible for a thief to disable the alarm by disconnecting the car’s main battery.

For greater personal security, the car’s alarm can also be activated by pressing a ‘panic’ button on the car’s Electronic key, or by pressing the interior central locking button on either front door.

Comfort and Convenience
A range of features is available to enrich the experience of driving and traveling in the car. Although often small refinements, they can make a significant contribution to developing a rewarding, interactive relationship between the car and its owner.

‘Smart’ door mirrors
Ever folded in the door mirrors and then forgotten to reposition them until you are back in the car? An annoying oversight that can’t happen with the optional, electrically-foldable mirrors that are linked to a speed sensor and automatically fold out once the car exceeds 50 kph.

A typical Saab innovation is the button for tilting the mirrors down. This function normally operates automatically when reverse gear is engaged. But it can be just as useful to tilt one or other mirror when going forwards, following a kerb or low wall, for example. Standard for electrically-adjustable seats with memory.

Remote window and sunroof operation
In many circumstances, it can be useful to remotely operate the windows, or the sunroof, after leaving the car. This is can be done simply by holding down the lock/unlock button on the remote control unit.

For example, this function makes it possible to close a front window or sunroof that has been inadvertently left open. Likewise, the front windows and sunroof can be opened, or set to a desired position, to let heat out of the car. Optional feature.

Automatic disconnect/connect fog lamps
To prevent the rear fog lamp being inadvertently left on when no longer required, it is automatically disconnected when the ignition is switched off. However, both front (where fitted) and rear fog lamps do not have to be switched on again if the engine stalls because they are programmed to remain active for 30 seconds after the ignition is switched off. Standard feature.

Variable speedometer illumination
The Night Panel feature allows all main dashboard illumination - except for the speedometer - to be switched off when driving at night. The Profiler function also enables the driver to restrict illumination of the speedscale to the range, 0 - 140 kph. It will, of course, automatically illuminate if these speeds are exceeded. Standard feature.

‘Intelligent’ windshield washing
When the windshield is washed at speeds under 20 kph, the wipers will automatically make an additional sweep after an eight second delay in order to clear the windshield of residual streaks. Standard feature.

Washer fluid saver
When there is less than one liter left in the washer fluid reservoir, the headlamp washer function will automatically de-activate in order to prioritize washing of the windshield. Standard feature.

Vertical wiper parking
If you want to cover the windshield - to prevent frosting up when parking outside or to help keep the interior cool in hot weather - the wipers can be parked in a vertical position by removing the key fob and pressing the control stalk once. Standard feature.

Automatic air recirculation
To avoid the unpleasant smell of detergent from the windshield washer system entering the cabin, the automatic climate control (ACC) can be programmed (through an authorized dealer) to briefly switch to ‘recirculation mode’ whenever the driver operates the washer system via the stalk control.

‘Halo’ lighting
When approaching the car, a simple blip of the remote control will turn on the exterior and main interior lights as a ‘lead-me-to-the-car’ function. With a range of up to 20 meters, this facility can help identify the car at night in a crowded car park, illuminate its immediate surroundings or discourage anyone from attempting to enter the car when it is being opened. Standard fitment.

Welcome lighting
A warm welcome always awaits the driver courtesy of automatic footwell lighting, with ‘theatre’ dimming, and ‘puddle lights’ in the bottom of the front doors to illuminate the ground outside. Likewise, at night the main interior light will switch on when the ignition key is removed so the driver or passengers are never left completely in the dark. These features are standard for all variants, expect Linear, which has 'puddle lights' only.

‘Follow me home’ lighting
When leaving the car at night, a tweak of the lights stalk will keep the headlights on for 30 seconds. A useful aid for walking up the drive to the door or when parking in unfamiliar ground. Standard feature.

Owning and Enjoying the Saab 9-3

• Flexible service intervals
• 10 year anti-perforation warranty
• Excellent serviceability for reduced workshop times
• Low-speed accident damage protection
• Favourable insurance ratings
• Design and lifestyle-orientated accessory range

World class build standards and the use of premium quality components and materials, backed by a 10 year anti-perforation warranty, contribute to competitive ownership costs, including servicing and insurance.

Good serviceability, reducing the cost and improving the convenience of ownership, was an important priority for the 9-3 project development team. This is backed by a range of exclusive accessories, giving owners greater scope to enjoy the full potential of their car.

Lower Servicing Costs
The excellent quality of major mechanical components, due to better machining and finer tolerances, has allowed Saab to move away from rigid time and distance restrictions for scheduled servicing. It is now more important to monitor how the vehicle is actually used by its owner.

In all variants, the engine management system logs key usage parameters, such as the number of cold starts, journey distances and engine speeds used, and applies an algorithm to inform the driver when an oil change is due. The maximum service interval on most markets is now every two years, or 30,000 kms for both gasoline and diesel engines. At any time, the driver can also request notification of when the next change is due.

With the engine coolant filled and sealed for life, the only other major service items for the Saab 9-3 are spark plugs, the air filter and the engine drive belt.

Quicker repairs, lower insurance
Saab engineers have worked closely with representatives of leading insurance companies to introduce ways of minimising accident repair bills, as well as improving vehicle security and anti-theft protection. This close liaison is intended to achieve highly competitive insurance groupings and lower premiums.

A number of design elements in the outer body are intended to make accident and other repairs easier and faster. For example, electrical wiring and connection points are located away from areas more vulnerable to crash impacts and there is just one single connection point between the engine and main wiring harness, which is located in a well-protected position.

Low speed frontal collision protection, through ‘self-repairing’, energy absorbing bumpers (for impacts up to 8 kph) and deformable ‘crash boxes’ (for impacts up to 15 kph), helps protect the body structure from serious damage that would require expensive reinstatement. The front wings are also bolted to the main structure to make removal and replacement easier and less time-consuming.

Anti-perforation warranty
The warranty period covering body perforation is 10 years, a result of Saab’s confidence in under-body joint and sealant treatments and new electro-galvanizing procedures.

The body-in-white is prepared, sealed, galvanized, primed and painted at one of the most modern paint shops in Europe, where quality standards are considered to be class-leading. All primer and paints are water-based, except for the final clear lacquer finish.

Accessories tailor-made for individuality
A range of accessories that include sporty design enhancements, as well as more practical and lifestyle-orientated items.

For a more distinctive look, inside or out, there are a number of sporty accessory options. Exterior items include a front lip spoiler and, for the sedan, a rear trunk lid spoiler. in addition to fog lights; a sports exhaust and a selection of alloy wheels up to 18 inches in size. For the interior, there are metallic and wood veneer trim inserts for the doors and the gearshift mounting, and a leather/wood steering wheel.

Useful additions to support leisure pursuits include : roof racks suitable for use with or without roof rails; ski, snowboard, surfboard, canoe, kayak and bike holders; a roof cage and roof boxes. Removable or fixed tow bars include a hitch-mounted bike holder. The rear load space of the SportCombi can be equipped with a moveable load protection net, a cargo floor net, a bag holder net for the TwinFloor stowage featureand a space divider and a fold-out rear bumper protector.

Pre-wiring facilitates the addition of entertainment and navigation equipment. Also available are a hands-free phone kit, Smart Slot accessories, a CD changer, a pedal extension kit and an extensive range of engine heaters.

Saab Parking Assistance and the Saab Anti-theft Alarm can be fitted as accessories. A first aid kit, spare bulb kit and towing line are also available.

Gasoline engines:
2792cc. V6. Aluminum cylinder heads and block. Twin-scroll turbocharger, intercooled. DOHC, 24-valve. Variable valve timing (inlet). Dual-mass flywheel. Bosch Motronic ECM
1998 cc. 4 cylinders in-line. Aluminum cylinder head and block. Turbocharger, intercooled. DOHC, 16-valve. Balancer shafts.
Saab Trionic 8 ECM
1796 cc. 4 cylinders in-line. Aluminum cylinder head, cast iron block. DOHC, 16-valve. Naturally-aspirated. Siemens ECM.

Diesel engines:
1910 cc. 4 cylinders in-line. Aluminum cylinder
head, cast iron block. DOHC 16v / SOHC 8v.
Common rail, direct and multiple injection.
Turbocharged: VNT/ 2-stage turbo, intercooled
Dual-mass flywheel. Bosch ECM
Maintenance-free particulate filter.

BioPower:
1998 cc. 4 cylinders in-line. Aluminum cylinder head and block. Turbocharger, intercooled. DOHC, 16-valve. Balancer shafts. Saab Trionic 8 engine management. Fuelled by bioethanol (E85)/gasoline in any proportions

Installation:
All engines front, transversely-mounted, Hydraulically-damped. Front wheel drive.
Saab XWD (AWD option for Aero)

Transmission
5/6 speed manual gearboxes.
5/6/5+2 speed automatic transmissions
with Saab Sentronic manual selection

Suspension
Front: MacPherson struts and gas shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Hydroformed sub-frame.
Rear: Indep, four link, incl. toe-link. Coil springs. Gas shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Sub-frame.

Steering
Rack and pinion, hydraulic power assistance.
Electro-hydraulic for 1.8i, 1.9TiD variants
Turning circle (curb to curb): 10.8 m (V6, 11.4 m)
Lock to lock: 2.75 turns (4-cyl turbo, 2.97 turns)

Wheels, Tires
15 x 6.5˜, 195/65, 215/60
16 x 6.5˜, 215/55. 17 x 7.0˜, 225/45
17 x 7.5˜, 235/45. 18 x 7.5" , 225/45

Brakes
Hydraulic, dual circuit, vacuum booster. ABS,TCS, MBA, EBD, CBC.
Discs: All 4 cyl.engines (except 2.0 Turbo/1.9TTiD Aero):
285 mm (f) ventilated / 278 mm (r) solid.
2.0 Turbo/1.9 TTiD Aero: 302/292 mm, both ventilated
2.8V6 Turbo: 314/292 mm, both ventilated
All US models: 302 mm ventilated / 278 mm solid

Weights
Kerb: 1410-1690 kg (EU)
Distribution: 60%(F) / 40% (R)
Max. towing weight:
1400-1600 kg (braked), 750 kg (unbraked)

Capacities
Luggage (VDA): 425 dm3
Fuel tank: 58 liters (US, 61 liters)
Washer reservoir: 5.2 liters

Attachment 775

Attachment 776