The New Saab 9-3

What Car? called the New Saab 9-3 “the new face of Saab”, adding “the BMW 3 Series rival takes some of its design cues from the dramatic Aero X coupé concept car”. Autocar was even more enthusiastic, commenting: “This facelift isn't just about giving Saab's 9-3 its new corporate face though; it injects a much needed dose of adrenaline into the styling of the whole car”.

With its all-new bonnet, front bumper and wings, ‘signature’ lighting, new door panels and rear styling features, the latest generation 9-3 acquires a more focused, assertive stance, reflecting the introduction of technical advances aimed at delivering an even more rewarding experience. Most noticeable is the sharper frontal styling, which adopts grille and bonnet themes first seen on the Aero X concept, together with the welcome return of Saab’s classic ‘clamshell’ design.

Beneath the skin, the new car is packed with the safety innovations that have made Saab a byword for occupant protection, alongside new features like optional cost bi-xenon cornering headlights (available at an extra cost). They’re backed by an advanced line-up of predominantly turbocharged engines that include a new high performance diesel, using the low-emission 1.9TTiD (180 PS) unit – complete with twin turbocharger - and our innovative BioPower engines running on bioethanol (E85) or unleaded petrol.

“We are introducing significant developments across three key areas: design, performance and handling,” explains Jan Åke Jonsson, Managing Director of Saab Automobile. “The result is a major step forward in strengthening the visual and driving appeal of our core product line-up.”

The New 9-3 range comprises Saloon, SportWagon and Convertible models, all available with petrol, diesel or BioPower engine variants. It will be available in four new forms:

- Airflow
- Linear SE (Previously Linear/Linear Sport trim)
- Vector Sport (Previously Vector/Vector Sport trim)
- Aero

With prices starting from just £18,575, it offers strong appeal to company drivers looking for a stylish and individual alternative to other premium marques.