The sportier new 9-3 has changed designation to saloon, finds Michael McAleer
Swedes are not renowned for making rash decisions so it should come as no surprise that, despite the major changes made to the new 9-3, the first phase of Saab's redevelopment under the wing of General Motors, is unmistakably from the Swedish stable.
Perhaps the most significant change to the new 9-3 is its more wedge-like lines presenting a sportier profile .
For regular Saab fans, however, the most important difference is the move to saloon. Previously this model was presented as a three or five-door hatchback.
The move is understandable and brings the 9-3 in line with its main competitors, such as the BMW 3-series and Audi A4, both saloons.
Despite a shared basic platform, the 9-3 feels significantly different to its GM relative, the Opel Vectra. Saab is positioning the 9-3 Sport Saloon (to give it the full title) further upmarket than before, hence the "executive" saloon body style rather than a hatchback.
Away from the bodywork, the new Saab comes with a choice of three new aluminium 2-litre engines, ranging in output from 150 to 210 bhp, and a 125 bhp 2.2 litre turbo diesel.
And, in line with competiors such as BMW, Saab has chosen to confuse us with their badging. The 150 bhp 2-litre will, in fact, be badged as 1.8t, while the 175bph 2-litre will have the 2.0t moniker.
The high perfomance 210 bhp variant, here next spring, will go under the badging 2.0T. All very confusing for those outside the inner circle.
Saab's target market for the 9-3 is the young premium car buyer - a popular segment with many of Saab's competitors.
To its benefit, Saab has long been able to cultivate a strong image of cars for alternative, independently minded consumers, although it sometimes comes across as rather stuffy and a bit too sensible.
This new version should go some way to dispel those links to middle-aged doctors and dentists and gain more kudos with younger motorists.
The new 9-3 has been enhanced with a wider track, longer wheelbase and shorter overhangs, all adding up to more cabin space.
Overall the ergonomics are very impressive, giving a feel of a car much larger than it is (remember these people build fighter cockpits as well). The cabin is airy, and for the driver everything is at hand.
The short test drive we had in the 1.8t (that's the 2-lite 150 bhp variant) was very comfortable, and the automatic offered a nice steady powerflow and good responses.
As is expected from Saab, we found the car very solid and the handling secure, though the sports chassis was a little low to the ground for the numerous speed bumps we encountered.
According to Doug McCoy, general manager for Saab in Ireland, sales are expected to be in the region of 1,000 per calendar year. The 9-3 150 bhp in the base form starts at €33,900, with the 175 bhp at €35,400 and the 2.2 litre turbodiesel at €35,400.
He estimates that Saab's retained market to be in the region of 25 per cent, quite a strong loyal following.