This must be the perfect Saab. I have never, as a motor journalist, ever encountered a Saab that is so fun to drive and so stable and well-balanced. We have tested the new, upgraded, Saab 9-3 which is currently being released for the world automotive media. The test drive also included a tour with the top model Saab XWD, the first four-wheel-drive Saaben in series production.
The new 9-3 has changed on just over 2000 points compared to the previous model. What they say in detail yesterday cannot be said, but what is visible is definitely from the A-pillar onwards. The new look you say from Saab “is a result of modern Scandinavian design linked to both today’s and yesterday’s special Saab design.
The four-wheel-drive Saab is truly a hit. It shines away like a scalded rat with its 280 hp and torque of 400 Nm from the V6 at 2.8 l. That engine is reserved for Aero versions of 9-3. Combined with Saab’s four-wheel drive XWD it delivers 280 hp / 400 Nm. In front-wheel-drive versions, the power output is 255 hp / 188 kW and the maximum torque is 350 Nm.
400 Nm is also what hugs from the 1.9 liter diesel engine. By introducing a two-stage turbocharger with two turbochargers, you get 180 hp and, as I said, 400 Nm between 1,850 – 2,750 rpm from the relative little engine.
Between idle and 1500 rpm, exhaust gases flow exclusively to the smaller turbo. From 1,500 to 3,000 rpm, the flow is distributed between both turbines and provides a smooth transition to the high-power stage above 3,000 rpm, when the large turbine is alone about the job.
