Saab 9-3 gets final refresh
03.03.2011 - Richard Dredge
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The Saab 9-3 has been given a nip 'n' tuck, with an updated interior and exterior, while more efficient engines offer more power despite using less fuel.
A revised front bumper is joined by refreshed headlights, while the grille gets a tweak with more prominent Saab badging.
Saloons get a rear spoiler as standard, with the SE and Aero now featuring a new design of alloy wheels, at 17- and 18-inches in diameter respectively.
The interior features a redesigned instrument panel plus new fabrics and different colour schemes.
Fine tuning of the TTiD twin-turbo diesel engines means there's 180bhp on tap yet the unit is below the 120g/km free tax threshold - it's rated at 119g/km.
Revised petrol engines offer a typical reduction in fuel consumption of four per cent, despite power increases of up to 10bhp.
Two versions of the 2-litre petrol engine are offered, with either 163bhp or 220bhp - both can be specified with front- or four-wheel drive. Prices haven't yet been announced, but the first cars will be with dealers by May.
Meanwhile, there's a new special edition 9-3 convertible. Called the Independence and limited to 366 examples, 80 will come to the UK at £34,495 apiece.
Offered only in 180bhp 1.9 TTiD form, the Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence features a six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels and leather trim.
Also included are carbon fibre-effect interior trim details along with orange stitching and grey piping. The only colour offered is metallic orange, a colour unique to this model.
