Saab, who came very close to extinction earlier this year, will bring an updated 2011 Saab 9-3 model to the Paris Motor Show later this month. The 2011 9-3 has been given a subtle revision prior to the launch of an entirely new model in 2012. Changes include minor tweaks to the front bumper and tail lights. The 2011 Saab 9-3 also sees a return to the manufacturers ‘old-school’ design in the form of 3-spoke alloy wheels, which will be available in either 16- or 18-inch.
The biggest changes to the 2011 9-3 have been made under the sheetmetal. Saab has announced the addition of a new automatic transmission in combination with more powerful and fuel efficient engines.
The three diesel engines benefit from more advanced twin-turbocharging technology, which not only helps reduce fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions, but also adds a few more ponies. The 1.9-litre turbo diesel unit is available in three states of tune, ranging from 95 kW (previously 88 kW), a 118 kW version (previously 110 kW) and a range-topping 132 kW variant.
Resulting fuel economy for diesel-powered models is 4.5 l/100km and 119 g/km of CO2 for the 9-3 Saloon, 4.6 l/100km and 122 g/km of CO2 for the 9-3 SportCombi and 5.1 l/100km and 134 g/km of CO2 for the 9-3 Convertible.
According to the Swedish automaker, the all-turbo petrol line-up also benefits from some of these measures (no specific details were released) resulting in an average reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of 7 percent.
Further efforts to maximise efficiency include, recalibrated electric power management, revised gear ratios, low resistant tyres, improved aerodynamics with rear underbody deflector blades and reduced weight through lighter construction and sound-deadening materials.
