02 Mar 05
Saab has launched its 9-3 estate at the Geneva Motor Show, and in the UK, it will be called the 9-3 SportWagon. A sporty five-door in the vein of the 3-Series Touring and 156 SportWagon - ie more of a lifestyle holdall than a serious load-lugger - it answers the questions of many long-term Saab devotees not keen to sacrifice the practicality of their 900s and old-shape 9-3s by buying a 9-3 saloon. Saab also expects, however, that the SportWagon will attract more buyers new to the brand, as the latest 9-3 saloon has done.
The SportWagon (to be called SportCombi elsewhere in Europe) will come with the new Holden-sourced 250bhp 2.8 V6 Turbo engine, fitted in Aero versions. This engine will also be offered in the 9-3 saloon and convertible from September. The other engines already fitted in the 9-3 range will feature, including the 1.9 TiD diesels in 120bhp and 150bhp form; a 180bhp version of this engine is also likely to feature, and this will be used in the 9-3 convertible too.
Saab says that the SportWagon will have a cargo space of 419 litres with seats in place, and 1273 litres with seats folded flat. Its boot is double-layered; the main floor can be folded to reveal a further recess. It has retained LED taillights similar to those of the original Sport Hatch concept, and Saab also claims excellent aerodynamics, with zero lift at each axle aided by an integrated rear spoiler. Saab claims that the SportWagon's body is as rigid as that of the saloon, despite the open cabin and lack of rear bulkhead to a separate boot. It will also come with new-generation ESP, and the 2.8 V6 Turbo will have ESP Plus with Hill Start Assist (manual versions). More details and UK pricing will be announced later in the spring.
