* Saab XWD cross-wheel-drive system available on 2.0T models (as of October 2008)
* More powerful 280-horsepower (209 kW) engine on Aero models
* Electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD) standard on Aero V-6 XWD
* Aero-type appearance and performance package available on 2.0T “Sport” FWD models
* Carbon-fiber interior finish trim on Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi
* OnStar 8.0 hardware with Turn-by-Turn Navigation* and Bluetooth hands-free calling
* Matte chrome finish roof rails available on Aero SportCombi model
* Sleeker roof rail design for SportCombi model
* New 17 x 7-inch wheel on 2.0T XWD-equipped models
* Newly designed 17 x 7.5-inch, five-spoke alloy wheel, standard on 2.0T 1SD, Aero Convertible models
* Available additional convertible top color: Grey
* Exterior colors: Carbon Grey Metallic, Glass Grey Metallic (all models) replace Parchment Silver, Smoke Beige (all models)

2009 SAAB 9-3 RANGE expands XWD CROSS-WHEEL-DRIVE TECHNOLOGY to 2.0T Sedan AND SPORTCOMBI, MORE POWERFUL V-6 Engine on AERO MODELS AND NEW 2.0t ‘sPort’ MODEL

Fresh from the major exterior redesign it received for the 2008 model year, the Saab 9-3 range broadens its customer appeal for 2009 with available XWD cross-wheel-drive technology on 2.0T Sport Sedan and SportCombi models, a more powerful, 280-horsepower (209 kW) engine on all V-6 Aero models, and a new, available Aero-look exterior appearance package for 2.0T Sport models.

Other enhancements include interior trim, roof rail and wheel changes, as well as new, standard OnStar 8.0 hardware that enables Turn-by-Turn Navigation (available in late 2008) and Bluetooth hands-free calling capabilities.

For 2009, the Saab 9-3 range includes the 9-3 Sport Sedan, 9-3 SportCombi and 9-3 Convertible in 2.0T and Aero models. XWD technology is standard on Aero Sport Sedan and
SportCombi models.

Intelligent all-wheel drive

Originally available in the 2008 model year only on the V-6-equipped Turbo X or Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi models, Haldex Gen 4 XWD cross-wheel-drive technology brings additional functionality to four-cylinder 2.0T models while preserving the fun-to-drive attributes and Scandinavian sensibilities that characterize Saab vehicles.

9-3 2.0T models equipped with XWD technology (production begins in October 2008) are available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission and feature a more comfort-focused chassis setting than V-6 Aero XWD models.

Saab’s XWD cross-wheel-drive is a pre-emptive, active-on-demand system that is activated only when required, minimizing the impact on fuel economy while giving the car a sure-footed, dynamic feel that enthusiasts embrace. Developed in Sweden with Haldex of Stockholm, Saab’s available XWD cross-wheel-drive system is designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions.

This state-of-the-art, all-wheel-drive system includes two innovative features: pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels to optimize traction at take-off; and an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD is standard on Aero XWD models and not available on 2.0T models) that allows variable torque transfer between the rear wheels.

The system is governed by its own electronic control unit, which functions with the engine, transmission and ABS/ESP control modules. The hardware consists of a Power Transfer 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, on Aero models, an electronically controlled limited slip differential (eLSD). Both are wet, multi-plate clutch units manufactured by Haldex.

The eLSD 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 inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40 percent 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. This yaw-damping effect can keep the car better balanced and more tightly controlled, without requiring outside intervention from electronic stability technology.

Progressive design with Scandinavian values

The 2009 9-3 range incorporates the award-winning, eye-catching design cues of the Aero X Concept, with a powerful front end including a larger grille, smaller side grilles and semi-overwrap-style hood.

The headlamp design wraps around to the flanks of the vehicle and accommodates the available Xenon cornering headlamps (standard on Aero), which adjust horizontally in conjunction with the vehicle’s steering for greater visibility. This distinctive headlamp design element, as well as the clean, monochromatic doors and bumpers, give the 9-3 a longer, sleeker, cleaner and faster look. For 2009, SportCombi models receive a sleeker roof rail design, while matte chrome finish roof rails are available on Aero SportCombi .

For 2009, Saab 9-3 “Sport” Sport Sedan buyers can choose an Aero-type appearance and performance package that includes dual bright-finish tailpipes, sport-bolstered seats, metallic interior decor, upgraded brakes, a sport-tuned chassis and new, sportier-looking 17 by 7.5-inch five-spoke alloy wheels.

2.0T XWD-equipped 9-3 models feature new, standard 17 by 7-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. The new, sportier 17 by 7.5-inch five-spoke alloy wheel is standard on the Aero FWD Convertible. Eighteen-inch wheels with performance-rated tires are standard on Aero XWD models.

Carbon Grey Metallic and Glass Grey Metallic join the exterior color choices for 2009. Grey also is offered as an additional convertible top color choice.

Inviting cockpit

The 9-3 interiors use premium materials and are generously equipped, with standard features such as dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power driver’s seat, front side window de-misters, rain-sensing windshield wipers, cooled and illuminated glove box, plush carpet floor mats and plenty of storage.

2.0T models are equipped with leather-appointed seats and wood-effect trim, while Aero models receive leather-appointed sport seats with two-tone upholstery. For 2009, Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi XWD models receive carbon-fiber interior trim inspired by the Turbo X model.

Turbocharged engine leadership

Saab has been recognized for its turbocharging technology leadership for more than 30 years. Two turbocharged engines are available on the 9-3 range, the 210-horsepower (157 kW) 2.0L inline four-cylinder (2.0T models), and the more powerful 2.8L V-6 turbo (Aero models), which delivers 280 horsepower (209 kW). The 2.8L V-6 also produces more torque, 262 lb.-ft. (355 Nm) for the FWD Aero Convertible and 395 lb.-ft. (400 Nm) for the XWD Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi.

Saab developed the 2.0L I-4 turbo to balance high fuel efficiency with high torque (221 lb.-ft / 300 Nm) for confident passing. Precise, highly sensitive throttle control, adaptive torque delivery and smooth power-on/power-off characteristics are benefits of its Trionic-8 engine-management system.

The 2.8L V-6 Turbo, named one of the “10 Best Engines” by Ward’s AutoWorld Magazine in 2006, delivers excellent responsiveness through low-speed torque and high-rpm power as well as exceptional refinement. It features a technologically advanced 60-degree, dual overhead-cam architecture designed to produce power and excellent fuel economy to meet different needs in markets around the world.

All Saab 9-3 models can be equipped with a standard six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed automatic is available on 2.0T 9-3 FWD models and a six-speed automatic is available on Aero and 2.0T XWD models.

Safety is a Saab priority

The Saab 9-3 lineup has been recognized by insurance and consumer groups for its occupant protection attributes. 2008 model year Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, SportCombi and Convertible models earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick Award in the midsize category, the fourth consecutive year that the 9-3 Sport Sedan brought home top IIHS honors.

The 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible earned the IIHS’ Top Safety Pick Award – one of two convertibles and the only soft-top convertible to earn a top spot.

Saab 9-3’s long list of standard safety and security features includes:

* Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR) in the front seats
* Pendulum B-pillar side-impact structure
* OnStar 8.0 (includes Turn-by-Turn Navigation (available in late 2008), Bluetooth hands-free calling, automatic air bag notification, stolen vehicle location, emergency services, AccidentAssist, roadside assistance and remote door unlock)
* Anti-lock brakes and traction control
* Electronic Stability Program
* Adaptive driver and front passenger air bags
* Head/torso side-impact air bags in the front seats (Convertible)
* Torso side-impact air bags in the front seats
* Front seat safety belt pretensioners and load-limiters
* Halo remote lighting feature
* Tire pressure monitoring system
* Headlamps with delay (“follow-me-home”) feature

Premium audio

The top-of-the-line Bose Centerpoint surround sound system complements Saab’s turbocharged driving experience. Bose engineers worked with Saab designers to develop the system, using special design and analysis tools to take more than a thousand measurements inside the vehicle to assess the acoustic environment of the cabin.

While surround sound typically requires specially engineered recordings, the Centerpoint signal processing circuitry is based on the surround decoding technology in Bose home theater systems. As a result, Saab owners receive five independent audio channels of surround sound experience from their existing CD collection or any other digital music source.

The Bose Centerpoint surround sound system is standard on the Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi, and available on the 2.0T models. Standard on 2.0T Sedan and Convertible models is a 150-watt premium audio system with seven speakers, CD player and MP3-compatible auxiliary input jack; a 300-watt premium audio system with 10 speakers is available on the Convertible.

XM Satellite Radio is also standard, and comes with a three-month free trial.

Saab ownership

Topping the list of Saab owner benefits is Saab’s five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty including courtesy transportation and roadside assistance; no-charge scheduled maintenance for three years/36,000 miles and a four-year/50,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper New Car Warranty.

So, without basketball tonight, on to the Saabs. I saw several cars in the “artsy” category, so I went with the theme. Prehaps except for the last one.

First, an oft-ignored goody, the Saab 9-2x in a magnificent shot with a strong background color from RyanMcLaughlin:

Next, a neat little vintage Saab pic from Spain for all of you two-digit fans out there. This one is from grismarengo and is sporting a great interpretation of the Catalan flag on the roof.

This shot is such high art that it’s really not even a picture of the Saab, it’s just using the Saab to take an artistic picture of a building. That’s Andrew Burrows taking a picture of King’s College Chapel using the hood (bonnet in this case) of a black Saab. Appears to be a 9-5?

Finally, a Saab that has art work on it, this is a Saab 9-3 with those amazing wheels — these should be mandatory for all 9-3 owners. I really like these wheels on this car! Anywho, our friend Goran Aničić (thank goodness for control-c), presumably from Serbia, is proving to all of us that diesels are great cars even if some of us can’t have them (thanks, EPA!!).

Today’s topic: the GM 2.8 liter V6 in turbocharged form as in the upcoming Saab TurboX.

Oy, this is one smooth engine. After all, it’s won awards from people who really know a thing or two about engines, so you expect some refinement. This engine, as I’ve said before, has power and torque available from the minute that you stomp on the gas pedal. So, you really want to know how that power is made so quickly and smoothly, don’t you? Of course you do!

Well, here’s the secret: it has six cylinders.
And here’s the other secret: the turbocharger has two scrolls.

Now, I’m not advocating a wholesale change, and I’m not saying that everyone needs a 2.8 liter turbocharged V6, but I am saying that it’s nice to have in your product line because some people, myself included, will want the performance that it offers.

While at the Saab TurboX Media Drive, I studied the display V6 for a few minutes. After orienting myself and studying the airflow and the layout, the first thing that struck me was the additional piping and routing required to make a V arrangement work. On the four-cylinder Saabs, everything is easily routed from the same side of the inline bank of cylinders, while the V6 has to route exhaust to and inlet air from a single point on one side of the engine: the turbocharger. The well-sculpted inlets of the Saab V6 are a testament to both design and manufacturing prowess, but what a tangle it appears to be.

While we’re on the subject of metals, take a good look at the engine block and the cylinder heads. Casting technology has come a long way in just the past ten or twenty years. The detail and specialized shaping of each component is truly amazing and most certainly adds efficiency and performance.

The two-scroll turbocharger by Mitsubishi enhances the driver experience by allowing a workable variable inlet arrangment that gets the turbocharger impeller spinning at operating speeds with even a small change in exhaust flow. That is, turbo “lag” is greatly reduced. I can tell you first-hand that it works. With thirty years of turbocharging experience, Saab certainly made good choices with this one.

Not only is it easy to see the air and exhaust routing with this cutaway, it’s also to easy to see the 60 degree angle that helps to balance the engine and make the whole assembly a little shorter from top to bottom.

Notice that the exhaust manifolds are lined with stainless steel to keep the aluminum alloy from being heat worked over the life of the engine. That’s reliability, folks. Kudos to Trollhattan.

Here are a few shots of the fleet of TurboX cars at the dealership prior to our departure. I’ve also thrown in a couple of shots of the 9-3 cars on display in the showroom there. Beautiful.

I apologize in advance for the lighting — the sun was bright and high in the sky. Great for driving, but it plays havoc with photography, especially the digital stuff.

I think that this is a very good way to display the SportCombi — with the accessories that show how versatile the car can be. I think that such things may be missed by a three-brand dealership — the small differences that can display Saabs in the best light.

Much like The Most Glowing Saab 9-3 Review I’ve Ever Seen, this review is very positive about the 2008 Saab 9-3. Actually, it’s incumbent upon me to remind you all that around 90% of the reviews of the Saab 9-3 have been very positive, but I digress.

Here’s a few selected quotes:

The Europeans tend to put forward models that are just one step ahead of the pack, and the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan is no exception. This is one of the most driveable and nicely engineered four-door “saloons” you’ll find….

….As far as drivetrain refinement is concerned, the new six-speed transmission is superbly designed: unbelievably light clutch action, well-spaced gear ratios and reverse located to the left, out of the shift pattern, so there is no ambiguity during gear changes. I’ve rarely driven a manual gearbox sedan with this level of refinement.

Now that’s something you don’t read everyday!

Not far from where I live there’s a freeway access ramp that is basically a huge circle, with a slight elevation change and a sneaky little decreasing-radius turn at its end. Although it’s part of the highway system, it wouldn’t be out of place on a racetrack….. I can hustle around it in a Porsche 911 Turbo at about 100-odd km/h before things start to go hinky. Although it’s a four-door sedan, the 9-3 Sport would be right on the 911′s tail. It was comfortable at 85-90 km/h time and again.

In terms of all-round handling and balance, the 9-3 Sport Sedan is on equal footing with the likes of the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4.

And therein lies the source of my shame.

You see, I’ve driven the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and I’ve driven BMWs and Audis and whilst I regard the Saab higher than either of them, I just put that down to me being some sort of freak. We read from every publication not named Globe and Mail that the Saab handles like a wet sponge compared to the German competition and therefore we assume it must be so.

But I still rate the Saab higher. I still rate it as a more interesting drive, if not quite as well finished. And yet I find it hard to trust this review because he’s put the 9-3 on a par with the Germans. I should be waving flags and shouting it from rooftops and instead I’m suspicious. Shame on me.

The Saab isn’t as precise as those cars. That’s my recollection. But I’d still prefer to drive one eight days a week.

——

Interestingly, our author finds the styling to be a major flaw in the vehicle. And yet he loves it. Just goes to prove my theory that you can do one thing badly, earn forgiveness and even more loyalty and love for the things you do well.

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Dan from Lehman Saab (the music “off” button is to the left) dropped a note in comments a few days ago to mention that his dealership had just received two Aero XWD Saab 9-3′s. Yep, Aeros before the Turbo X.

Now there’s pictures as well, over at Saab Central.

Turbo X deliveries should start pretty soon. I know site sponsor Saab of Hunterdon has at least one customer itching to get his Black Turbo but I’ve not heard if XWD Aeros have arrived there, yet. Dan from Lehman Saab mentions that both their Turbo X’s are sold, so the interest in XWD is definitely there.

I’m sure Saab dealers are going to be fielding a lot of calls about XWD in the next few months, and more than a few test drives. Who isn’t at least curious about how it drives?

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Thanks Mo!

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I don’t know.

But this is one very, very positive review of the Saab 9-3. We run that car pretty hard here because we’re familiar with it and even more, because we want so much for it to do well.

The fact is, though, that it’s a pretty darn good machine. I could live with a 2.0T with no complaints at all. Would I like a better interior? Yes, but I could live with it and not complain. Quite happily.

This review is from some a program called Miles Around. I don’t know where it shows, but it tells me two things. 1) you’re never too tubby for television, and 2) there’s some people out there who really like what the 9-3 brings to the table. And so they should.

One thing that rings true from this – not enough people take the chance, or the time, to put the Saab to the test. That’s a strong message to Saab’s marketing arms, if you ask me.

Enjoy.

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This was revealed in Beijing overnight. Bear in mind that it’s a concept vehicle, but it is said to be pretty close to the final product. One would suggest that the rear roofline might be a tad higher and slightly less glassy on the road-going version.

This Buick is for China only at this stage, though I can well imagine some in the US saying why don’t you sell it here?

This comes hot on the heels of the official pictures of the Opel Insignia being let loose late last week. Again, the Insignia will be built on the new Epsilon II platform, the same architecture that will be used for the Saab 9-5 next year.

The big question is whether or not either of these can tell us anything about what’s coming in the next Saab 9-5. I guess they can hint at proportions and sizing. GM’s penchant for sharing parts (check out the similar grille openings on those two, for example) might suggest that the Saab could be similar in some areas, though hopefully the sheetmetal is completely different and the only common touches are hidden away.

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I heard from one Saab dealer over the weekend that the 9-5 could be due for a September 2009 release – and that’s here in Australia! If so, that would indicate a sooner-than expected arrival in other parts of the world.

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Albert has sent through a translation of an AutomobileWoche article, once again talking about the uncertainty surrounding the next Saab 9-3.

I’ve written about this before and it seems this story just won’t go away. I think some questions for Saab are in order here.

Exclusive: OPEL plant worries over utilization

The OPEL plant in Rüsselsheim worries over its utilization. The until 2018 contract (wherein GM assures the existence of the factory) has not been ratified. Among other things the GM management has not committed itself whether the next SAAB 9-3 will use the architecture of the Insignia.

Contrary to earlier statements of the works council, the utilization of the Opel factory in Rüsselsheim has not been secured yet. There is still no definite decision whether the Saab 9-3 will be built in Rüsselsheim, so say GM-sources to “Automobilwoche”.

With that it is just before the ratification of the “Standortsicherungsvertrages” uncertain whether the 6.000 employees can keep their jobs in the long run. “Some details are still open” a manager from GM Europe confirmed to the newspaper.

The 9-3, the best sold Saab-model, could be built on the Global Compact Architecture from GM. The Rüsselsheim plant is not laid out for this architecture. Because of this could not only the Saab entry-level model 9-1, but also the originally planned for Rüsselsheim 9-3, been built in the Swedish Trolhättan. With that, about 80.000 units would lack to the full utilization of the German mother-plant. Until now only the production of three variants of the Insignia, of which about 140.000 a year are planned, is sure. The maximum capacity in Rüsselsheim of 275.000 cars cannot be reached by that.

Long decision process.

Another battle point is the outsourcing-possibilities in areas that are not directly linked to car production, said a GM-employee. In the German facilities there are about a 1.000 jobs in danger by this. It is discussed for instance to outsource the security service ore the works fire brigade.

The long taking decision process around the 9-3 could also mean that the Swedish middle class limousine will come late to the market. Originally the production start was determined for 2010. “By now it will nearly be 2012” a GM employee said. The chairman of the works council, Klaus Franz, told already in November 2007 that the future of the plant was secure until 2018 but took this back later on. According to Franz the successors to the 9-3 and 9-5 as well as a crossover as a substitute for the wagons of the Swedes would be built alongside of the Insignia – all on the basis of the new Global Midsize Platform.

The 9-3 could well be headed for a 9-5-like timeframe, a decision that would surely hurt the brand in the next five years.

The answer: it’d look very sexy indeed.

Last week I broke the news that Saab Australia would be selling a limited number of special edition vehicles that they’re calling Black Turbo. These have been devised to celebrate the release of the Turbo X to the market, and they add around $6,000 value to the car.

Check out the look!!

As per the details from last week’s post, here’s what you’re looking at:

It’s based on a 2.0t BioPower Linear Sport Sedan, will be Black in color (as opposed to Jet Black metallic) with either a black or parchment interior, and will offer around $6,000 worth of stuff for just $2,000. There’s going to be a limit of just 50 of these vehicles here in Australia and you can expect to see them marketed in May and June.

The extra features include:

Rear spoiler
Front spoiler
Front fog lamps
18-inch wheels (ALU65)
Metallic finish mirrors
Sentronic paddle shifters on steering wheel
Sports chassis
Unique interior mats
unique sill badging

The price for this will be A$48,900 and that’s a pretty decent value when you consider the base model Linear (auto) without all that stuff is just $2,000 less.

Saab Australia has udpated their website and included an offer page for the Black Turbo. My initial information indicated that there would be a limited quantity of fifty of these, but I don’t see anything about that on the mini-site, so I assume it’s limited time only until 30 June.

There’s a test drive offer as well, which looks mighty inviting…..

Saab are also offering an accessories pack on Saabs sold up to May 31st that aren’t Black Turbos.

Check out the web page for all the details.

Se-xy.

I first met Hawkeye over dinner last year when I went to pick up my 900 Aero in Sydney. At the time he had a pristine OG9-3 auto in white with barely any miles on the clock. He was telling me all about how he’d just configured his future 9-3 and his order could have been one of the first in Australia.

That car finally arrived last week and Hawkeye couldn’t help but take it to one of the few E85 filling stations in Sydney to fill it up.

I picked up my 93 on Friday afternoon and let me tell you, this is one hell of a car! Am very, very happy.

The first 04/ 2008 model, built date (Jan 08) on the road in Australia I believe.

I couldn’t resist filling up with ethanol yesterday afternoon on my way to SaabTech to show them my new 93 BioPower. Note: Aus ethanol is made in Australia. I am the first Saab 93 to fill up there. They have a 95 that comes in also.

They tell me at the service station that they have everything from a Hyundai to a Ford Territory fueling up on the stuff. All private conversions. The word must be spreading.

Here’s the new ride, looking resplendant in Snow Silver in a fledgling Sydney sunset, or is that smog filtering the light? I can never tell with Sydney

The ethanol price is agreeable. I haven’t seen a fuel price that close to $1 for some time now.

And of course, wearing its night-vision goggles.