Hirsch officially launch their Saab 9-3 2.8 XWD tuning package

Posted by swade on July 1st, 2008 9 Comments Printer-Friendly

Hirsch have finally lifted the covers of their upgrade package for the Saab 9-3 2.8 XWD. This tuning package will suit the Turbo X as well as Aero models with XWD. This tune is obviously for 2008 models, but I’m told that it will be the same package for 2009 models as well.

Using UK prices, the Hirsch tune comes in at GBP1,733.00, which includes VAT but doesn’t include installation. That’s definitely at the high end of the market, but it’s also at the highest end of the quality spectrum, too.

The Hirsch XWD upgrade includes new software as well as a new intercooler and air filter housing. The output of you engine goes from 280hp to 300hp and torque rises from 400Nm to 430Nm. Top speed is still governed, but is lifted from 250km/h to 260km/h.

The tuning packages from Hirsch make for a very, very entertaining Saab. 20hp and 30Nm look like modest gains on paper, but (as always) it’s the way the car delivers the power that matters. With a Hirsch tune, the car becomes more responsive and aggressive when called upon. It’s not just the numbers at the upper limits that change, it’s the way it’s delivered.

Have a look at that dyno chart. The factory XWD tuning delivers maximum torque at 2500rpm. With the Hirsch tune, you get your response much quicker. The old torque max of 400Nm comes online at around 1750rpm and the new maximum of 430Nm kicks in at 2,000rpm, and it’s still carrying more than 400Nm right through to around 5200rpm. It’s a much more effective power band, making for a truly exhilarating drive.

Of course, the biggest thing about tuning your Saab via Hirsch is that you retain your original Saab factory warranty. I’ve heard good things about other tuners and know a lot of people that use their modifications, but only Hirsch allow you to keep your warranty.

If you’re fortunate enough to be in a market where Hirsch can sell you something, then check out their stuff for yourself. It’s the best there is in terms of both performance and support.

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Joel said:

That’s an awesome package, especially the warranty retention bonus!

-July 1st, 2008 at 10:15 am
turbin said:

And Aussies and Americans have to resort to BSR… not that it’s a bad choice. The Turbo-X really needs one of these tunes anyway.

-July 1st, 2008 at 10:28 am
Kroum said:

Sucks Hirsch is not available here.

But on the other hand, the BSR tune looks like a much better bargain overall: for half the price, you get the same horsepower and 480 Nm of torque. The curves don’t look too shabby either. In fact, it’s better than the Hirsch tune.

-July 1st, 2008 at 11:49 am
turbin said:

Kroum, you can bet that the BSR tune is more agressive also. When do you get yours??

-July 1st, 2008 at 11:56 am
jc7222 said:

Question: If I bought one of these a shipped to U.S. would Saab USA cover it also?

-July 1st, 2008 at 11:59 am
turbin said:

jc7222, nope.

-July 1st, 2008 at 12:00 pm
swade (Author) said:

Turbin’s correct, there, jc.

In fact, Hirsch won’t even sell it to you once they know you’re in the US as they don’t have an agreement in place with SaabUSA so they can’t sell to US customers.

If you’d like to get Hirsch access in the US, then SaabUSA are the people you need to hound. I’ve been on their backs for a couple of years now.

-July 1st, 2008 at 12:02 pm
Kroum said:

Turbin, unfortunately my lease payment on the Turbo X is pretty steep as is. I certainly don’t want to ruin the warranty on a $60K car. So the BSR chip - as desirable as it is - is out of the question for me at this point.

-July 1st, 2008 at 1:04 pm
Jörgen Trued said:

You Americans, have a european delivery and drive down to st. Gallen CH and have it done.
Hirsch stuff is great. Be sure to Bring Cash since hirsch Do not take creditcards.
Strange in the banking country of switzerland.

-September 23rd, 2008 at 10:19 pm