More info in Delta.

From German magazine Autozeitung comes snippets on the new Astra due release end of 2009.

First up lets get the platform sharing out of the way and it is reported that Delta will be used for future Chevrolet models and an extended wheel-base version for the next generation Saab 9-3. Don’t expect any rebadges on these three brands as like the 9-4x all future products are now designed from the ground up with their own suspension setup, sheet metal and interiors.

From this article I’ve highlighted a few synergies that could find there way into any sub compact Saab whether 9-1 or 9-3. What did strike me as most interesting is that in Astra form, the overall length of the car will increase from 4.25m to 4.83m despite the very short overhangs. The current 9-5 in comparison is the same size. An extended Delta version could see a future 9-3 exceeding 5m in overall length.

Automatic Start-Stop function will help reduce fuel consumption and electronic continuous damping control will also be added for better driving dynamics. No less than 11 engines will be offered to most market areas.

One being the all new 1.4 Turbo Direct Injection with variable camshaft phasing.
Injection nozzles are positioned centrally in the combustion chamber for the direct injection (up to 200 bar) to make sure that a homogeneous mixture is produced. To ensure that the design will not become outdated, it will be suitable for other future developments such as HCCI. A further feature is the turbo integrated into the exhaust manifold itself. Power output will vary from 120 – 140hp and 148lb ft. torque. A similar 1.6 will also be offered that will vary in output of between 150 and 180hp. Both will be EuroV compliant. On the diesel front we will see the 150hp 1.9TID replaced with a smaller, cleaner but frugal 1.7TID capable of the same power delivery.
The good news for our natural gas lovers will be the introduction for an all new 1.6 Turbo Charged CNG engine which will first debut in the 2009 Zafira and will also produce 150hp / 155lb. Ft. Torque.

Reading deeper into this news is that it gives more credit for moving the 9-3 onto Delta. There is no doubt that a future 9-3 will out-excel the current version, whether it be weight, size or performance. It stands more reason as to why Saab desperately requires another model in their range however; With a similar length to the new Astra, the 9-1 will more than likely leave the current 9-3 in the same position as the 9-5 today; Outpaced by its younger sibling.

As OPEL have almost given the green light to a new Calibra Coupe built on Delta. What if Saab had a 2 door Coupe/Targa with a 300hp 2.8 V6 planted in it with XWD? Would that give a nice alternative to a BMW 135 Coupe? If you think it might be a bit small, bear in mind that the new astra will be just 17cm short of 5m when it’s launched.

I’d consider only the 3 door for myself: It’s the only way to make a “halo” entry car, like Ovlov’s C30.

But business-wise, having both might be best…

The only concern I have is that making it a “volume” car instead of a “halo” car will force a compromise and result in loosing a radical iconic design, and I don’t think Saab needs a Golf right now. (Specially because people aren’t ready to look for a Golf in a Saab dealer.)

Right now, what Saab needs is to make heads turn it’s way, and capitalize it on sales volume afterwards, IMHO.

This might be the most important car for Saab since the NG900: a turning point!