The latest edition of Saab 9-3 get new highly efficient diesel engines with different power levels and astonishing Co2 emission ratings. all 9-3 diesel engines have more advanced twin turbocharged engines and, in the saloon, all three engines give CO2 emissions of just 119 g/km and great fuel consumption of 62.8 mpg.
Even the SportWagon and Convertible variants deliver great results with 61.4 mpg and low CO2 emissions of 122g/km and 54.3 mpg and 137g/km receptively. The 1.9-litre diesel line-up now comprises a 130 hp TTiD unit (replacing the previous 120 hp TiD engine), a 160 hp version (replacing the 150 hp TiD engine) and a range-topping 180 hp/400 Nm variant.
To achieve this class-leading fuel consumption and emissions standards, Saab engineers have implemented a number of tricks including:
- Recalibrated engine management with improved fuel injection and combustion control
- Revised gear ratios to match new power and torque characteristics
- Improved electrical power management, including sophisticated alternator control when battery charging is not required and more efficient electro-hydraulic power steering assistance
- Low rolling resistance tires for reduced road friction
- Improved aerodynamics, with rear underbody deflector blades
- Reduced weight through lighter construction and sound-deadening materials
- Revised torque converter for automatic transmission with optimised shift programming.
Standard Equipment Enhanced for MY11
In addition to the significant powertrain improvements, standard equipment levels have been increased for MY11. All 9-3 models now come with Bluetooth phone integration and heated front seats as standard. Other model year enhancements include the introduction of a ‘change-up’ indicator in the instrument cluster to encourage economical driving; a clutch interlock system on manual transmissions; child seat top tether anchorage points and a perforated leather sport steering wheel on Aero models. Two new exterior paint colours have been added to the range – Diamond Silver and Java and rear engine badging has been changed to follow the same style as used on the new 9-5 saloon.
