Saab 9-3
| Company type | Subsidiary |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | June 1, 1945 in Trollhättan, Sweden |
| Headquarters | Trollhättan , Sweden |
| Products | Automobiles, including Saab 9-3 |
The Saab 9-3 (pronounced nine-three) is a compact executive car originally designed and produced by the Swedish automaker Saab.
The initial generation of the 9-3 (1998–2003) was built upon the GM2900 platform, transitioning to the GM Epsilon platform with the release of the second generation (2003–2012). This platform was shared with models such as the Opel Vectra, Chevrolet Malibu, and Cadillac BLS.
Following Saab’s ownership, its then parent company, National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS), briefly resumed production of several 9-3 sedans during the years 2013 and 2014.
Overview
Beginning with the 1998 model year, Saab adopted the 93 badge to align with its larger sibling, the 95.[1] Marketed as 9-3, pronounced “nine three,” this vehicle debuted in 1998 for the 1999 model year essentially as a refreshed second-generation iteration of the Saab 900 (produced from 1994 to 1998). A redesigned version replaced it for the 2003 model year. It is distinct from the earlier Saab 93 ("ninety-three"), which was manufactured between 1955 and 1960.[2]
First generation (1998–2003)
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The inaugural generation of the Saab 9-3, essentially an updated version of the Saab 900 (NG), was introduced in late ’98 for the ’99 model year. Often called the 'OG' or original generation internally designated as body style '9400,' its manufacture ceased on May 8, 2002 at Trollhättan and April 25, 2003 at Valmet’s facility in Finland.
According to Saab, over a thousand modifications distinguished this model from its predecessor—the NG 900—including suspension tuning that allowed greater wheel travel and enhanced steering responsiveness.[3] Exterior updates featured refreshed styling elements with some variants equipped with rear spoilers, while underbody snow and gravel flaps were eliminated. The lineup consisted of three or five-door hatchbacks plus a two-door convertible. Safety enhancements encompassed reinforced A-pillars for improved crash protection, sturdier door sills and frames, reengineered pendulum-style B-pillars, standard dual-stage side airbags for torso and head protection, and inclusion of Saab Active Head Restraints. Additional upgrades included a larger capacity air conditioning compressor, an improved cabin ventilation system with higher airflow, adoption of a CAN bus electrical system resembling that used in the Saab 9‑5, and replacement of the electric convertible roof mechanism with a hydraulic one.
Engine options introduced included an updated variant of the B204 unit—the B204E low-pressure turbocharged engine derived from the last NG 900’s B204L. For North American markets, all units were fitted with turbocharged petrol engines featuring a "full pressure turbo" B204L rated at 185[convert: needs unit name] as standard, alongside a "HOT" performance version B204R delivering [convert: needs a number] found in SE trims during model year ’99. In ’00, engine management transitioned from SAAB’s Trionic T5.5 system to Trionic 7 technology powering engines such as B205E, B205L producing [convert: needs a number], and B205R HOT rated at [convert: needs a number]. Notably, this generation marked Saab’s first introduction of a diesel powertrain—a turbocharged inline-four also utilized by Opel models including Vectra and Astra.
A unique feature carried over from previous models is the 'Night Panel,' which dims all dashboard illumination except critical gauges to minimize driver distraction during nighttime operation.
Cumulatively, production reached approximately 326,370 units for this first generation. Convertible assembly took place exclusively at Valmet’s plant in Uusikaupunki, Finland—a facility also responsible for manufacturing all body styles of the high-performance Viggen variant.[4] After Trollhättan ceased production operations, Valmet continued assembling non-Viggen hatchbacks until final closure in ’03. In total, Valmet produced around seven thousand seven hundred eighty-nine hatchbacks across all variants.[5]
Saab 9-3 Viggen
From 1999 until 2002, Saab released a limited-edition, performance-enhanced variant of the 9-3 known as the Viggen (meaning Thunderbolt in English). This model takes its name from the Saab 37 Viggen fighter jet and was created in collaboration with the Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) Group.
The design of the Viggen production model is based on the earlier 230 bhp (172 kW; 233 PS) Saab 900 Concept Coupe, developed by Saab's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division. The project team included Peter Leonard and John-Gustav Gudmundsson. In total, just 4,600 units of the 9-3 Viggen were manufactured.[6]
Mechanical features
Under the hood, the Viggen is equipped with Saab’s 2.3 L B235R engine, featuring a compression ratio of 9.3:1 and fitted with Nimonic valves.[6] Originally delivering 225 PS (165 kW; 222 bhp), its output was later raised to 230 PS (169 kW; 227 bhp) thanks to a boost pressure of 1.0 bar (15 psi) from a Mitsubishi TD04-HL15-5 turbocharger.
The vehicle includes an upgraded intercooler with greater capacity, a performance-calibrated ECU, a flow-through muffler and exhaust tip, a reinforced gearbox casing along with a more robust output shaft, heavy-duty clutch and pressure plate assemblies, lowered and stiffened springs with adjusted rates, firmer shock absorbers, plus strengthened CV joints and driveshafts.
The Viggen is exclusively paired with a five-speed manual transmission featuring an electronic torque-sensing mechanism designed to protect the gearbox from damage.[6]
In 1999, this was the first 9-3 model to incorporate Saab’s Trionic 7 engine management system. The 2001 update introduced a Traction Control System (TCS), which was subsequently offered in the SE trim as well.
Exterior and interior features
Visually, the Viggen stands out with an enlarged rear spoiler that also houses the radio antenna at the rear roof edge, aerodynamic bumpers and side skirts unique to this model, specific 17-inch alloy wheels, and enhanced braking components. Available paint finishes include Black, Metallic Silver, Steel Grey, Monte Carlo Yellow, Laser Red, along with the exclusive Viggen shade called 'Lightning Blue'.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
Inside, occupants benefit from specially designed leather seats and door panels available in four color combinations: black with black inserts ('Charcoal'), black with blue inserts ('Deep Blue'), black with orange inserts ('Flame Ochre'), and tan with matching tan inserts.
Additional cabin features comprise a CD player accompanied by options for four or six speakers plus an amplifier and CD changer, a power-operated moonroof, as well as heated and motorized leather seats initially exclusive to the Viggen bearing an embossed Viggen delta logo on their backrests. These seats were later offered in the Aero trim (known as 'SE' in the U.S.) without the embossed emblem. Between 1999 and mid-2001 model years, some interiors were fitted with carbon-fiber trim; subsequent models received a more cost-effective printed grey pattern across the dashboard and standard trim.
For new buyers in the U.S., Saab provided two days of advanced driving training at Road Atlanta, along with an exclusive dining event hosted by Saab USA executives based nearby in Norcross, Georgia.
Production overview
In total, Valmet Automotive in Finland manufactured 4,600 Viggen units before production ceased in June 2002. Among these, 500 were designated for the UK market. In 1999, the U.S. received imports of 426 three-door Viggens, predominantly blue (420 units), with two each in silver, Monte Carlo yellow, and black.
| Summary of Viggen Production | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Produced Models | Models Imported to the U.S. | ||||
| Model Year | Annual Production | Cumulative Total | Convertible | 3-door | 5-door |
| 1998 | 14 | ||||
| 1999 | 1,099 | 426 | 426 | ||
| 2000 | 1,621 | 804 | 245 | 138 | 421 |
| 2001 | 1,251 | 1,152 | 738 | 129 | 285 |
| 2002 | 615 | 550 | 322 | 71 | 157 |
| Total | 4,600 | 2,932 | 1,305 | 764 | 863 |
Critical response
The Viggen has faced criticism from certain automotive journalists, particularly regarding pronounced torque steer at low gear settings. Notably, Britain's Evo Magazine included it among its list of the ten worst cars ever tested. Conversely, some reviewers have hailed the Viggen as a 'classic'. In 2000, Motor Trend praised its sharp handling and traction. Additionally, Jalopnik has referred to the Viggen as "The Last Great True Saab".
Engines of the first generation 9-3
All petrol powertrains available for the initial generation 9-3 were variants of the Saab H engine. Both the Saab 9-5 and first-generation 9-3 represent the final Saab models utilizing this proprietary DOHC 16-valve fuel injection architecture. Naturally aspirated versions employed a distributor system supplying each spark plug individually, whereas turbocharged variants incorporated Saab’s Trionic engine management coupled with a Direct Ignition Module mounted atop the engine for direct spark plug connection. The B204 engines utilized Trionic 5 technology, while Trionic 7 debuted with the B2x5 engines. These technologies were later integrated into various GM vehicles during GM’s decade-long stewardship of Saab. Except for the naturally aspirated and low-pressure turbocharged models, all engines delivered high specific output figures; for instance, the B205R produced 102.5 horsepower (76.4 kW) per litre alongside 210 lb⋅ft (285 N⋅m) torque.
| Engine | Displacement | Power Output | Torque | Compression Ratio | Boost Pressure | Production Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B204i: | 2.0L (1985cc) | 130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) at 5500 rpm | 177 N⋅m (131 lb⋅ft) at 4300 rpm | 10.1:1 | N/A | 1999–2000 |
| B204E: | 2.0L (1985cc) | 154 PS (113 kW; 152 hp) at 5500 rpm | 219 N⋅m (162 lb⋅ft) at 3600 rpm | 9.2:1 | 0.40 bar (5.8 psi) | 1999–2000 |
| B204L: | 2.0L (1985cc) | 185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp) at 5500 rpm | 263 N⋅m (194 lb⋅ft) at 2100 rpm | 8.8:1 | 0.73 bar (10.6 psi) | 1999–2000 |
| B204R: | 2.0L (1985cc) | 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) at 5500 rpm | 280 N⋅m (207 lbf⋅ft) at 2200 rpm | 9.2:1 | 1.00 bar (14.5 psi) | 1999–2000 |
| B235R: | 2.3L (2290cc) | 230 PS (169 kW; 227 hp) at 5500 rpm | 350 N⋅m (260 lb⋅ft) at 2500 rpm | 9.3:1 | 1.08 bar (15.7 psi) | 1999–2002 |
| Engine | Displacement | Power Output | Torque | Compression Ratio | Boost Pressure | Production Years |
|---|
- Turbochargers applied include Garrett T25 on B204E and B204L; Garrett GT17 on B204R, B205E & B205L; and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries MHI TD04-HL15T with a five-centimeter exhaust port on B205R & B235R.
- The main distinctions between B204E and B204L are found in boost pressure control valve implementation and ECU calibration.
- Differences between B204L and B204R involve intercooler design and ECU tuning.
- Upgrades from GT17 to TD04-HL15T turbochargers and ECU adjustments differentiate B205L from B205R.
- The automatic transmission variant of B204L produces 185 hp at 5500 rpm with torque of 250 Nm at 1900 rpm.
- For B205R equipped with an automatic gearbox, output is rated at 205 hp at 5750 rpm and torque of 250 Nm at 1900 rpm.
Second generation (2003–2014)
The debut of the Saab's second-generation model, previewed by the concept car named the 9-3X at the January 2002 North American International Auto Show, was initially planned for October 2001 alongside the Opel Vectra at the Frankfurt Motor Show. However, General Motors announced a delay in July 2001 that postponed the launch. Eventually, this generation officially entered production in July 2002 as a model year 2003 vehicle. The convertible variant was introduced with the MY04 update, while the SportCombi estate became available starting with MY06.
At its initial release, the updated Saab remained exclusively equipped with a front-wheel-drive system. A notable design shift from its predecessor was the removal of the hatchback body style. This generation offered three body formats: a four-door sedan, a wagon — marketed variously as SportWagon, SportCombi, or Sport-Hatch depending on region — launched in late 2005 for the 2006 model year, and a two-door convertible introduced in 2004. Safety enhancements included Saab Active Head Restraints II to mitigate whiplash injuries and ReAxs rear suspension bushings designed to adjust toe angle under heavy braking to reduce understeer.
Saab 9-3 Linear 1.8t convertible prior to facelift, Australian market Pre-facelift Saab 9-3 sedan, European version
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Departing from the previous use of Saab's H/EcoPower engines, this generation adopted General Motors' new Ecotec inline-four engines for petrol variants. Three turbocharged versions were available differentiated by their boost levels and power outputs: a base 1.8t producing approximately 112 kW, a mid-level 2.0t delivering around 131 kW, and a high-performance 2.0T rated at about 157 kW. Transmission options included a standard five-speed manual or an automatic 'Sentronic' five-speed gearbox — a conventional automatic distinct from Saab’s earlier clutchless semi-automatic 'Sensonic' system which used hydraulic clutch actuation but retained an H-pattern shifter. In models from 2003, a six-speed manual was optional and became standard on US-specification Vector trim models equipped with the more powerful two-liter turbocharged engine.
Trim levels were organized into four tiers: entry-level Linear, mid-range Vector and Arc emphasizing sportiness and luxury features, and the premium Aero variant at the top of the range. Outside of North America, customers could pair any trim with any available engine except for the Aero which was exclusively fitted with the high-output two-liter turbocharged unit developing approximately 210 horsepower. In contrast, within the US market Linear trims came solely with the mid-level two-liter turbocharged engine; Arc and Vector trims were limited to the high-output two-liter turbocharged powerplant; while Aero models offered additional features such as sunroofs, larger wheels, and a six-speed manual gearbox but retained this same high-performance engine until it was replaced by a turbocharged V6 of displacement 2.8 liters in 2006. Diesel-powered variants along with smaller displacement petrol engines such as the 1.8T and BioPower alternatives were not offered in the United States.
This generation shared its underpinning with the Opel Vectra as part of General Motors’ global Epsilon platform architecture. The platform was later extended to accommodate additional models including Chevrolet Malibu/Malibu Maxx, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura derivatives. Exclusive to Saab’s implementation were features such as an advanced fiber-optic electrical system, availability of all-wheel drive from 2008 onward under the name Saab XWD, and ReAxs rear suspension technology.
Production of these second-generation vehicles concluded on February 22, 2012 with a final batch of forty-seven units assembled—all being convertible models known as 'Independence Edition'—completed by one of Sweden’s largest dealerships, AB Nyköpings Automobilfabrik (ANA) in Trollhättan. Among these last cars produced, twenty-one were left-hand drive while twenty-six were right-hand drive configurations. The very last car manufactured was a Saab 9-3 Aero Independence Edition TTiD convertible.[7]
2004
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In the United States, the Vector trim was discontinued and replaced by the Aero model. The Arc trim switched from a six-speed to a five-speed manual transmission. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, the 9-3 Aero 2.0T was offered with a six-speed manual gearbox.
2005
The previous 2.2 TiD engine was succeeded by a Fiat-sourced common rail 1.9 TiD diesel powerplant. This engine came in two variants: an 8-valve version producing 120 PS and a 16-valve version delivering 150 PS. The 8-valve option was paired solely with a six-speed manual transmission, whereas the 16-valve could be matched with either a six-speed manual or automatic. For the 2005 model year, the diesel particulate filter was standard on the 16-valve engine and optional on the 8-valve. Similar to its predecessor, the 1.9 TiD was not available in the US market.
In American models, standard wheel size increased to 16 inches (with Aero trims equipped with 17-inch wheels), replacing the former Linear's 15-inch wheels. The year 2005 marked the final availability of Linear and Arc trims in the United States, though these remained elsewhere. Additionally, the six-speed manual transmission was discontinued in the US, with both Arc and Aero trims adopting a five-speed manual.
2006
Saab introduced a new turbocharged V6 engine for the Aero trim—a 2.8-liter unit designated as the 2.8T. In the US market, this V6 replaced the previous four-cylinder 2.0T engine as the sole Aero powertrain option. Conversely, other regions offered both the four-cylinder 2.0T and six-cylinder 2.8T engines for the Aero model. The smaller engine delivered 210 hp (157 kW) with a maximum turbo boost of 12.3 psi, while the larger V6 produced 250 hp (190 kW) at an 8.7 psi boost level. In select markets like Switzerland, a Vector trim featuring a detuned six-cylinder variant rated at 230 hp was also available.
In America, the Linear trim and its associated 175 hp engine were discontinued; consequently, all four-cylinder versions featured the more powerful 210 hp unit. The Arc trim name was retired and replaced by a "2.0T" trim that closely resembled the previous Arc but utilized wheels from the Linear model. To commemorate two decades since launching the Saab 900 convertible, Saab unveiled a "20 Years Edition Aero Convertible" at January’s Los Angeles Auto Show in metallic electric blue exclusively for the US market.
2007
The interior saw notable updates for this model year: the Saab Information Display was relocated from its elevated position above to within the main instrument cluster binnacle. The previously button-intensive climate control system was replaced by one derived from the Saab 9-5. Additionally, OnStar returned to North American models and became mandatory when navigation was selected. A new corporate GM head unit debuted, featuring satellite radio support and MP3 CD playback capability. Exterior color Steel Gray was phased out in favor of Titan Gray. Furthermore, Biopower versions of both the 1.8t and 2.0t engines were introduced in certain markets, capable of running on E85 ethanol fuel as well as gasoline.
For US buyers, only two engines were offered: a turbocharged four-cylinder 2.0 L with 210 hp and a turbocharged V6 2.8 L producing 250 hp. The manual transmission available on the 2.0T model transitioned from five to six speeds.
To celebrate Saab’s sixtieth anniversary, a special edition package was made available on sedan, wagon, and convertible variants equipped with the 2.0T engine for model year 2007. This package included unique five-spoke alloy wheels measuring seventeen inches, sport seats finished in black leather with grey inserts featuring SAAB embossing on front seats, dark walnut interior trim, black floor mats with grey edging, front fog lamps, and an upgraded BOSE sound system equipped with a six-disc CD changer and satellite radio capability. Sedan and convertible versions also received trunk-lid spoilers as part of this edition’s features. An exclusive Ice Blue metallic paint option complemented standard SAAB color choices for this package.
2008 Refresh
Saab announced that more than 2,000 modifications were implemented for the 2008 model year vehicles. Unveiled at the Saab Festival held in Trollhättan, Sweden, on 10 June 2007, these models featured redesigned front-end styling influenced by the Saab Aero-X and Saab 9-2X. This update marked Saab's inaugural incorporation of LED "signature" lighting within the revamped headlamp assemblies. Additional changes included redesigned door panels, a new clamshell-style hood, an updated rear bumper, and transparent tail lamps referred to as "ice block." Inside, black replaced charcoal gray as an available interior shade, while Snow Silver was introduced as a fresh exterior paint option. The 2.8T V6 engine saw a slight power increase from 250 to 255 PS (184 to 188 kW; 247 to 252 bhp). Exclusive exterior enhancements were offered on the limited-edition XWD 280 PS (206 kW; 276 bhp) 9-3 Turbo X, which debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007. The Turbo X made its first appearance in the North American market at the New England Auto Show later that November. In March 2008, Saab launched an all-wheel-drive version of the Aero trim, featuring the "XWD" drivetrain system.
A newly introduced twin-turbo diesel engine producing 180 PS, named the 1.9 TTiD, became available. This engine option was also offered in Aero specification, marking Saab's first use of a diesel powerplant in an Aero-badged model.
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2009 (MY08) Saab 9-3 Aero 2.8T SportSedan
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Rear perspective
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2008 (MY08) Saab 9-3 BioPower 1.8T SportCombi
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2008 (MY08) Saab 9-3 Vector 1.9T convertible
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Saab Turbo X
Available as either a Sport Sedan or Sportcombi (wagon), the Turbo X commemorated SAAB’s three decades of turbocharged engines. All Turbo X units were finished exclusively in metallic jet black with matte grey accents. This model represented SAAB’s first production vehicle equipped with the XWD all-wheel drive system developed by Haldex Traction, incorporating an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD). Under the hood sat a 2.8 L V6 engine delivering 280 PS (210 kW), paired with a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox option. Upgrades included larger braking components along with firmer springs and shock absorbers. The interior featured carbon fiber-style trim on the dashboard, shift lever, and door panels, while the turbo boost gauge design drew inspiration from the classic Saab 900.
2009
The 2009 model year for the 9-3 lineup introduced a broader range of trim options while discontinuing the limited-edition Turbo X saloon and wagon. Both the 2.0T and Aero variants, available in saloon and estate forms, now offered Saab's all-wheel-drive system (XWD), although this feature was not extended to the convertible models. Compared to the 2008 version, the 2009 Saab 9-3 remained largely unchanged; however, the Aero trim gained standard equipment of the XWD system, electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), and an enhanced output of 280 horsepower—features previously exclusive to the phased-out Turbo X. During this year, Saab unveiled the 9-3X at the Geneva Motor Show. The 9-3X is a four-wheel-drive crossover utility vehicle (XUV) variant based on the 9-3 SportWagon. It was offered with two engine configurations: a 1.9 L diesel delivering 180 bhp and a 2.0 L petrol engine producing 210 bhp. Notably, only the petrol-powered version came equipped with XWD, while the diesel model remained front-wheel drive.
2010
In 2010, Saab discontinued the turbocharged V6 engine option in the 9-3 Aero lineup, resulting in all models being powered solely by the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Saab 9-3 Aero Carlsson
The year 2010 commemorated the fiftieth anniversary of Erik Carlsson’s inaugural victory for Saab at the RAC Rally driving a Saab 96. To honor this milestone, Saab produced a limited run of 96 Aero Carlsson editions of the 9-3. This special model featured Saab’s XWD system paired with a turbocharged 2.8 L V6 engine generating 280 hp and delivering 400 Nm of torque through a six-speed "Sentronic" hydraulic automatic transmission.
Saab 9-3 ePower
At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Saab introduced the 9-3 ePower as its electric vehicle concept. This prototype, derived from the 9-3 SportWagon, features a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, achieves a maximum speed of 150 km/h (93 mph), and offers an anticipated driving range of approximately 200 km (120 mi). Saab had planned to conduct a two-year pilot program involving 70 ePower demonstration units in Sweden by late 2011. Following Saab's acquisition by National Electric Vehicle Sweden, the new proprietors announced intentions to commence production of the fully electric 9-3 ePower, targeting a launch primarily for the Chinese market between late 2013 and early 2014.
The finalized production model was expected to debut at the 2014 Frankfurt Motor Show, with commercial availability slated for 2015. In April 2014, NEVS initiated manufacturing of an initial batch of 200 vehicles intended for testing in Qingdao, China, with plans to introduce sales in Sweden during 2015 after completing the evaluation phase.
2011
For the 2011 model year, Saab replaced its single-turbo TiD diesel engines with twin-turbo diesel (TTiD) variants. This upgrade raised the power output of the 8-valve engine from 120 PS to 130 PS, while the 16-valve version increased from 150 PS to 160 PS.
2012
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In preparation for the 2012 model year, the Saab 9-3 underwent updates introduced during late 2011. These included revisions to the engine lineup resulting in fuel consumption reductions of approximately 12% for diesel engines and around 7% for petrol variants. Additionally, a new entry-level gasoline/BioPower engine producing 163 hp from a 2.0 L displacement was made available across the saloon, estate, and 9-3X models equipped with Saab's XWD system. Exterior enhancements featured rear badging aligned with that of the updated Saab 9-5 saloon, redesigned front bumper styling, and 'ice block' style headlights. Interior upgrades included titanium metallic-effect accents on the instrument panel, gearshift surround, door trims, and glove compartment. The Aero trim offered graphite fiber-effect detailing combined with contrasting stitching on leather seats.
In most markets, this refreshed model carried the 'Griffin' designation. The three-spoke alloy wheels returned as options ranging from 16 to 18 inches in diameter. To celebrate the first anniversary following Saab's acquisition by Spyker Cars, an "Independence Edition" convertible was released in a limited run of 366 units; however, only 37 vehicles were ultimately completed.
Safety
Motorsports
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Following Saab Automobile's closure and the subsequent withdrawal of the 9-3 from commercial availability, extensively modified versions of the 9-3, built to meet TTA – Racing Elite League specifications, competed in the 2012 TTA season and continued to race from 2013 through to the 2016 STCC season.
Second-generation 9-3 engines
Note: Certain petrol variants, diesel, and biopower engines were not offered in the North American market. From late 2004 onwards, diesel powertrains were sourced from Fiat and featured common-rail technology.
| Model | Years | Engine and type | Displacement | Power output | Torque output | Turbocharger type | Manufacturer reported 0–100 km/h acceleration (manual/automatic) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8i | 2004–2009 | I4 16V | Ecotec Z18XE | 1796 cc | 122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp) @ 5800 rpm | 167 N⋅m (123 lb⋅ft) @ 3800 rpm | Naturally aspirated | 11.5 s[8] |
| 1.8t | 2003–2006 | I4 16V | Ecotec B207E | 1998 cc | 150 PS (110 kW; 150 hp) @ 5500 rpm | 240 N⋅m (180 lbf⋅ft) @ 2000–3500 rpm | Garrett GT2052s Low-pressure 7.3 psi (0.50 bar) |
9.5 s / 10.7 s[8] |
| 1.8t | 2007–2012 | I4 16V | Ecotec B207E | 1998 cc | 150 PS (110 kW; 150 hp) @ 5500 rpm | 240 N⋅m (180 lbf⋅ft) @ 2000–3500 rpm | MHI TD04-11TK Low-pressure 7.3 psi (0.50 bar) |
9.5 s / 10.7 s[8] |
| 2.0t | 2003–2006 | I4 16V | Ecotec B207L | 1998 cc | 175 PS (129 kW; 173 hp) @ 5500 rpm | 265 N⋅m (195 lbf⋅ft) @ 2500–4000 rpm | Garrett GT2052s Mid-pressure 8.7 psi (0.60 bar) |
8.5 s / 9.7 s[8] |
| 2.0t | 2007–2012 | I4 16V | Ecotec B207L | 1998 cc | 175 PS (129 kW) @ 5500 rpm | 265[convert: needs unit name] @ 2500–4000 rpm | MHI TD04-11TK Mid-pressure 8.7 psi (0.60 bar) |
8.5 s / 9.7 s[8] |
| 2.0T | 2003–2012 | I4 16V | 'Ecotec' B207R | 1998 cc | 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) @5300 rpm | 300 N⋅m (221 lbf⋅ft) @2500–4000 rpm | 'MHI' TD04-14T High-pressure 12.3 psi (0.85 bar) |
7.9 s / 8.8 s[8] |
| 1.8t BioPower | 2007–2012 | I4 16V | 'Ecotec' B207E | 1998 cc | 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) @5500 rpm (Petrol) 172 PS (127 kW; 170 hp) @5500 rpm (E85) |
240 N⋅m (177 lbf⋅ft) @2000–3500 rpm (Petrol) 265 N⋅m (195 lb⋅ft) @2000–3500 rpm (E85) |
'MHI' TD04-11TK Low-pressure 7.3 psi (0.50 bar) |
|
| 2.0t BioPower | 2007–2012 | I4 16V | 'Ecotec' B207L | 1998 cc | 175 PS (129 kW; 173 hp) @5500 rpm (Petrol) 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) @5500 rpm (E85) |
265 N⋅m (195 lb⋅ft) @2500–4000 rpm (Petrol) 300 N⋅m (221 lbf⋅ft) @2500–4000 rpm (E85) |
'MHI' TD04-11TK Mid-pressure 8.7 psi (0.60 bar) |
|
| 2.0t BioPower | 2012 | I4 16V | 'Ecotec' A20NFT | 1998 cc | [convert: needs a number] @5300 rpm (E85) | {{convert 320 Nm lb.ft abbr = on }} @ 2500 rpm | Borg Warner KKK K04 | |
| 2.0t BioPower |
2012 |
I4 16V |
1998 cc |
{{ convert 220 PS kW hp abbr = on }} @5300 rpm (E85) |
{{ convert 350 Nm lb.ft abbr = on }} @2500 rpm |
Borg Warner KKK K04 |
||
| 2.8T V6 |
2006 |
V6 engine 24V |
2792 cc |
{{ convert 250 PS kW hp abbr = on }} @5500 rpm |
{{ convert 350 Nm abbr = on }} @1800–4500 rpm |
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries MHI TD04-15T |
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| 2.8T V6 |
2014 (NEVS)National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) recommenced manufacturing the 2014 model year Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan on 2 December 2013 at the former Saab facility in Trollhättan. The only visible exterior change for the MY14 version was the removal of the Griffin emblem, as NEVS did not hold the rights to this symbol. Instead, a badge featuring the Saab logotype was installed, alongside redesigned seats.[9] Powered by a 220 PS (162 kW) 2.0-liter direct-injection twin-scroll turbocharged Ecotec engine, the 9-3 Aero was launched in Sweden on 10 December. Initial deliveries were scheduled for spring 2014, branded as a "Limited Edition" with only two paint options: black and silver.[10] Due to non-compliance with the latest Euro NCAP pedestrian safety standards, European sales were restricted to a maximum of 1,000 units per body style under low-volume manufacturer regulations. The vehicle's other market was China, where an electric variant was planned for release in spring 2014.[11] Automotive publications responded positively to the updated model.[12] Vi Bilägare described it as feeling contemporary while maintaining a sporty yet comfortable driving experience.[13] Automobile production ceased in May 2014 after Qingbo Investment, a NEVS shareholder, failed to secure necessary financing.[14] Later that year, India's Mahindra & Mahindra agreed to acquire a majority stake in NEVS.[15] In February 2015, it was confirmed that the final batch of approximately 100 vehicles left unfinished since production halted in May would be completed.[16] Production of the electric version commenced in China beginning in 2017.[17][18] Third generationDevelopment of a third-generation Saab 9-3 commenced in 2007, with design teams located at General Motors facilities in Rüsselsheim and Detroit initiating a design study. Under the guidance of Simon Padian, the team succeeded in creating a clay model along with several digital renderings before General Motors declared the Saab brand to be "under review" in December 2008. Following the unsuccessful attempt to sell Saab to Swedish sports car maker Koenigsegg in 2009, General Motors reached a deal with Dutch automaker Spyker N.V. in January 2010. The transfer of ownership to Spyker was finalized by late February 2010, prompting an immediate restart of the 9-3 successor’s development. Saab’s new leadership, led by CEO Victor Muller, believed that introducing a fresh design direction was essential to differentiate the independent Saab from its former GM association. In June 2010, Muller appointed Jason Castriota to develop a versatile vehicle platform intended as the foundation for upcoming Saab models, starting with the new 9-3. By October 2010, multiple prototypes were produced and assessed against those created in 2007. Ultimately, Castriota’s design was selected, and the team received instructions to create a five-door combi coupé, a convertible, and a crossover based on this platform. The culmination of this effort was showcased at the March 2011 Geneva Motor Show with the debut of the Saab PhoeniX concept car. Despite facing significant financial difficulties by that point, Saab continued development on both the PhoeniX platform and the new 9-3 replacement until bankruptcy proceedings were initiated late in 2011. By then, the forthcoming 9-3 model—renamed as the 900—was planned to feature a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine supplied by BMW, which would also provide the start-stop technology. The vehicle was designed to include a hybrid powertrain and be available in both an upscale Aero trim and a more economical Vector version. When Saab declared bankruptcy in December 2011, Castriota and his team had largely completed the car’s exterior design and engineering components, with only interior development remaining. The project aimed for completion by autumn 2012. Subsequently, the primary assets of the insolvent company were acquired by National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS), which considered revisiting the PhoeniX platform while concentrating efforts on producing an electric version of the second-generation 9-3. Awards and recognition2010
2009
2008
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See alsoNotes
External linksWikimedia Commons has media related to Saab 9-3.Template:Preview warning |
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