26 Jul 04
Turbo strong, but diesel still noisy
Like all 2005-spec 9-3 models, the 1.9 TiD benefits from some new equipment and options. These include a voice-activated control system for the integrated hands-free phone, radio, CD player and sat-nav (being polite and Swedish, it actually demands that you say 'please' with each command) and new options packs. The Arc specification level has been dropped in favour of Linear Sport (adding dual-zone climate control, a trip computer, cruise control, front fog lamps, 16-inch alloys, upgraded upholstery and parking sensors to basic Linear kit at an extra £1000) and Vector Sport (ESP, upgraded entertainment/info system, new 17-inch alloys and parking sensors, an extra £650 over Vector spec). New paint colours are also on offer and all Aero models gain bi-xenon headlamps as standard. The range now starts from £16,995 (1.8i).
The 150bhp diesel we tested goes head-to-head with the highly-desirable BMW 320d, and is priced to match. It isn't quite as quick; with a torque output of 232lb ft, 90 percent of which is available over the wide range between 1,750rpm and 3,250rpm, it produces 0-60mph acceleration of 9.5 seconds compared to the BM's 8.8 seconds. But more importantly for everyday driving, in-gear acceleration is strong, with good flexibility. This 150bhp version is tuned to be sporty, with low-ratio gears up to the relaxed-for-cruising sixth speed, and Saab has specifically modified the Garrett turbocharger to replicate the power delivery of its turbocharged petrol engines. It's been effective: with a strong, progressive delivery and clear on-off-boost delineation, the measure might be contrived but it serves to give the 9-3 a very different feel to, say, the rather lumbering, nose-heavy Alfa 156 1.9 JTD with the same basic engine.
9-3 1.9 TiD cruises easily sixth gear
Sadly, it does share with the Alfa a tendency to be noisy, clattery and lumpy, at least in comparison to the ultra-smooth, sophisticated 320d. This is particularly noticeable in the automatic versions, although these are otherwise refined and the transmission is responsive in either fully-auto or sequential-shift modes (steering wheel-mounted paddleshifts optional). The manual can be worked to better advantage both in terms of smoothness and quick getaways, yet remains calm to cruise in at motorway speeds with its overdrive-style sixth gear. It is thoroughly pleasant and even rewarding to drive, but just not as civilised as the BMW. Saab deserves to achieve its aim of attracting aspirational owners of mainstream medium saloons, but the 9-3 1.9 TiD is unlikely to give the German manufacturers cause for concern.
