The Swedish firm now represented locally by GMSA will be increasing its local presence with a range of models. First in line is the Saab 9-3 in both four-door saloon and two-door drop-top versions.
The Swedish firm now represented locally by GMSA will be increasing its local presence with a range of models. First in line is the Saab 9-3 in both four-door saloon and two-door drop-top versions.
Spearheading the revival will be the range of 9-3 compact cars, the most notable, and desirable being the cabriolet versions.
Powered by a 2,0-litre turbocharged powerplant that delivers a maximum 154 kW with 300 N.m of torque, the vehicle is offered with five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. Paddle shifts on the steering wheel for the automatic is optional.
Using the same basic engine, the LPT derivatives offer 110 kW at 5 500 r/min, and 240 N.m at 2 000 r/min, while the T versions offer power and torque of 129 kW and 265 N.m at 5 500 and 2 000 r/min respectively.
Saab’s Trionic engine management system ensures optimal power and economy.
The car is equipped with four-wheel drive. The ReAxs chassis system co-ordinates interaction between the steering, front suspension and rear multi-link axle. There is a range of electronic driver aids, including ABS, EBS, EBA, TCS and CBC.
Safety features include front and rear crumple zones, side impact protection, and Saab’s “DynaCage” system, with pop-up roll-over bars concealed behind the head restraints. Front and side two-stage airbags are included, too.
Ergonomically, major controls are within easy reach of the driver. At the touch of a button, the “Night Panel” is activated, fading out the all instrumentation (excluding the speedometer) for reduced glare form the console. With “Profiler”, functions such as the rain sensor and parking assistance can be personalised. The fully automatic roof can be lowered into, or raised from, the boot in 20 seconds.
Prices:
Saab 9-3 Linear 2,0 LPT man – R212 750
Saab 9-3 Arc 2,0 T auto – R262 000
Saab 9-3 Aero 2,0 TS man – R300 500
Saab 9-3 Aero 2,0 TS auto – R314 ,000
Saab 9-3 conv Linear 2,0 LPT man – R366 500
Saab 9-3 conv Linear 2,0 T man – R379 500
Saab 9-3 conv Linear 2,0 T auto – R393 000
Saab 9-3 conv Vector 2,0 T auto – R409 000