All-New SAAB 9-3 Sport Sedan

New Saab 9-3 Model to Fuel Expansion Plan

World Premiere: All-new Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan

New Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan:Technical Specifications and performance

The first sketch: Saab engineer creates marketing image

2002-05-14

New Saab 9-3 Model to Fuel Expansion Plan

The announcement of the all-new 9-3 Sport Sedan is backed by the biggest investment program in new models and production facilities in Saab's history. It also signals the Swedish manufacturer's entry into the largest segment of the premium car market, going head-to-head for the first time against sedans from BMW, Mercedes and Audi, who dominate the sector.

Saab's all-new Sport Sedan, announced May 13, replaces the current range of three and five-door hatchbacks and is the first step in a carefully phased five year growth plan targeted at raising annual sales and production figures to over 200,000 units, virtually double current levels.

In recent years, "downsizing" has become an international consumer trend in automotive sales. In the premium sector, it has fuelled the sales of smaller, "compact" cars at the expense of their larger counterparts. Over the last 10 years, for example, global sales of such smaller, "D" segment premium cars have grown by almost 50 per cent, to 1.4 million units last year. In contrast, sales of larger, mid-size cars, such as the Saab 9-5, have remained largely static, declining marginally to 0.8 million units last year.

Almost alone among the world's premium manufacturers, Saab has continued with its traditional, hatchback formula. However, the 9-3 premium segment is dominated by sales of sedans, which account for almost 60 per cent of the total, the remaining 40 per cent being wagons, convertibles and coupes. Now with a new 9-3 sedan model available, instead of a hatchback, Saab is positioned for the first time to compete on a like-for-like basis in this large and growing marketplace.

Research also shows that if versatility is an important requirement, customers now prefer a wagon, or estate car, rather than a hatchback. Hence, the significance of the 9-3 Sports Sedan as the first, core product in the roll-out of a number of distinct variants.

A sporty, "fun-to-drive" focus is also an essential "qualifier". Customers in this segment are younger on average, aged 35 to 45 years old, and place a higher priority on a sporty, performance-orientated experience. In this respect, the positioning of the new sports sedan draws more strongly on Saab's tradition for fine chassis dynamics and turbo-inspired performance than in any previous model.

Whilst the arrival of new 9-3 initiates the first phase of a product-led growth plan, Saab has already laid the foundations to deliver higher production volumes and quality levels: the completion of a massive SEK 4.5 billion plus investment in new facilities and machinery at its Trollhattan plant, 80 kilometres north of Gothenburg. Saab has, in effect, built the equivalent of a new factory.

Production of the new 9-3 in July will see a 21,000 square meter extension to the Assembly Shop come on line. The biggest investment in this area for more than 40 years, it allows highly flexible working with the assembly of different models on the same line.

Last year, a 12,500 square meter extension to the body shop was completed, again allowing different body parts for different models to be produced simultaneously. And a new, fifth press line has also been added to the Press Shop, as well as more efficient procedures giving a 30 per cent increase in productivity. Include the addition of an entirely new Paint Shop, among the most modern and cleanest in the world, and all the main production processes at Trollhattan have been enlarged and modernised.

"We have the tools to do the job," says Saab Automobile's President and CEO, Peter Augustsson. "We have the products we need under development and we have the capacity we need to meet our goals, including the highest levels of quality assurance.

"It is fair to say that Saab is raising its game. For the first time, we have what we need to consistently build our market share year on year."

The investment in new products and production facilities is the largest in Saab's history and has been planned and resourced with the full co-operation of owners, General Motors. It is a clear statement of GM's commitment to the expansion of Saab as the leading European premium brand in its portfolio of auto manufacturers.

"We have also done a great deal of work in identifying and clearly defining the key characteristics of the Saab brand," says Vice President-Sales and Marketing, Mikael Eliasson.

"We have examined how we should best communicate the brand. Apart from more tightly focused marketing, that also means taking the Saab brand out to locations where our customers work, socialise and travel. For example, there are innovative "shop windows" for Saab, such as brand centers at airports and railway stations, and new retail outlets at prestigious, metropolitan locations around the world.

"This has all been a pre-requisite in the build up to the successful launch of our new 9-3 product."

For further information, please contact Christer Nilsson, phone +46 (0)520 854 86, mobile, +46 (0)70 603 2412

2002-05-13

World Premiere:
All-new Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan

• First Saab positioned in premium, compact Sport Sedan segment
• Best-ever chassis dynamics for close driver involvement
• Long wheelbase and wide track for good handling and spacious interior
• New powertrain includes lightweight, aluminum turbo engines
• New five-speed automatic transmission and six-speed manual gearbox
• In-house Saab electronics for sophisticated powertrain behavior
• Fiber optic electronics for advanced, modular "infotainment" systems
• Exceptionally strong bodyshell for good handling, refinement and safety
• Second generation Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR)
• Load-limiting seat-belts, dual stage front airbags and roof rail airbags
• "Profiler" customization program and choice of three specification levels

The all-new Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan is the first step in the biggest product development program in Saab's history. It spearheads the arrival of an entirely new family of cars, each focused on meeting the particular requirements of a different niche in the market.

As Saab's first contender in the premium, compact Sport Sedan segment, the focus for the new 9-3 is dedicated to delivering a unique, "fun to drive" experience that promises to set new standards for the class.

The coupe-like silhouette, with steeply raked windshield and rear window and short front and rear overhangs, communicates a strong, sporty stance, which is reinforced by negative wheel cambers. The overall look is designed to convey a sense of movement even when the car is stationary. The shape of the windows and the wedge-like profile also combine with the integrated headlights and grille to give the car its distinctive Saab identity.

Excellent aerodynamics including a high competitive 0.28 drag coefficient, result in low lift forces at the rear axle, improving high speed stability and braking. Careful airflow management also benefits the driver by helping to prevent road grime building up on the rear windows and lights.

The new model comes with a choice of three new, 2.0-liter, all-aluminum turbocharged engines, ranging in power from 150 (110 kW) to 210 bhp (155 kW), and a 125 bhp (92 kW), 2.2-liter turbo diesel. The front-wheel-drive transmissions include five and six-speed (option) manual gearboxes and a five-speed automatic with Saab Sentronic manual selection and the option of steering wheel controls. There are three "Forms", or specification levels: Linear, Arc and Vector, plus an Aero high performance variant.

Compared to its predecessor, the new 9-3 offers more spacious accommodation, particularly for rear passengers, within the same overall length. Front and rear width is increased by 55 mm and the wheelbase is 71 mm longer.

It is price-positioned to compete with the BMW 3-series, Audi A4 and Volvo S60. Sales commence from September and Saab dealers can already take customer orders.

The main features of the new 9-3 contribute to an enriched, sporty driving experience in four key areas: driver involvement; refined performance; driver adaptability and driver-centered design.

Driver Involvement
The new 9-3 is the product of the most exhaustive development program in chassis dynamics undertaken by Saab. The handling of the car, its sensitivity to driver inputs and a high degree of feedback all combine to deliver a level of driving involvement and pleasure that challenges the class benchmark. The main highlights include:

• "ReAxs" passive rear wheel steer characteristic. The kinetics of the rear suspension are tuned for a unique rear wheel steer response for optimum handling and stability
• Four-link independent rear suspension. High lateral stiffness for stability and grip; longitudinal compliance for ride comfort
• Low mounted steering rack gives excellent feel and precision with progressive power assistance and fast responses
• Front suspension is by McPherson struts with lower A-arms mounted on a hydroformed (hollow), rubber-isolated sub-frame. High lateral bushing stiffness for good steering response and precision; high longitudinal compliance for ride comfort
• Advanced chassis electronic systems. Saab-tuned "user friendly" ESP (Electronic Stability Program). Mechanical brake assist, EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), CBC (Cornering Brake Control) and TCS (Traction Control System) all standard features.
  
• Optimized braking power. Front and rear brake discs in three and two sizes respectively, depending on specification
• Minimized unsprung weight for better ride quality. Hub carriers and toe and lower rear suspension links in aluminum. Anti-roll bars in hollow section steel
• "Shear" bushing at top of rear shock absorber mountings for compliant ride quality and effective vibration suppression

Responsive Performance
Saab is a center of expertise within General Motors for the development of turbocharged gasoline engines and the new powertrain adds enhanced refinement and driveability to Saab's traditional strengths of high torque for strong, mid-range pulling power. It also delivers a level of sporty performance in keeping with the chassis's dynamics, further reinforcing the new car's driver focus. The main highlights include:

• New all-aluminium 2.0-liter turbo engine. Saab developed and tuned for 150 bhp/110 kW (badged 1.8t), 175 bhp/129 kW (badged 2.0t) and 210 bhp/147 kW (badged 2.0T) with high torque for swift overtaking. All internal components unique to Saab. Balancer shafts and dual-mass flywheel for greater running refinement
• Sophisticated powertrain performance. Highly sensitive and precise throttle control, adaptive torque delivery and smooth power on/power off characteristics from new Trionic 8 engine management, latest version of Saab's own 32-bit in-house system
• More transmission choice. Uprated five-speed and all-new six-speed Saab manual gearboxes. Five-speed, adaptive automatic transmission with Saab Sentronic manual gear selection and optional steering wheel controls
• Unique "pendulum" engine mounting. Engine noise and vibration is reduced by installation of rods at the base of the engine for optimal torque control

Driver Adaptability
In addition to its driver-focused chassis dynamics and powertrain performance, the new 9-3 is also designed to adapt to a wide range of driver needs, establishing a close interaction with its owner. Main highlights include:

• "Profiler" customization. A wide range of functions can be pre-set according to personal preference including: anti-theft alarm, parking assistance, rain sensitive wipers and automatic climate control
• Advanced electronics. Most extensive automotive systems use of fiber optics. With a signal capacity 50 times greater than conventional wire circuitry, fiber optics provide a high speed platform for advanced in-car "infotainment"
• Dual zone air conditioning with automatic balance control. Senses changes in sunlight or shade outside the car and automatically adjusts airflow to keep interior temperature constant
• Satellite Navigation. Designed by Saab with tailor-made software, including voice instruction, location and route storage and dynamic route guidance, avoiding traffic jams, for example
• First vehicle-integrated Bluetooth™ application. Bluetooth wireless technology enables short-range communication between devices such as telephones, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) and computers. The new 9-3 supports hands-free voice control and calling via a Bluetooth headset, as well as wireless dial-up networking functionality using a Bluetooth PDA or laptop
• Three specification levels. "Linear" includes understated interior with fabric upholstery and anthracite trim. "Arc" adds 16-inch alloy wheels and ruched leather interior with poplar wood trim. "Vector" has 17-inch alloy wheels and a sports leather/fabric interior with matt chrome trim. The "Aero" variant is the performance flagship of the range with lowered, sports tuned chassis and bodystyling, available only with the 210 bhp engine
• Additional load-carrying potential. A standard 60/40 split fold rear seat with ski hatch allows occasional extra cargo to be effortlessly carried
• Lower running costs. Longer service intervals and reduced workshop times minimize inconvenience for the owner and reduce scheduled servicing costs by 30 per cent, compared to previous model. On-board algorithm adapts oil change cycle to how car is used
• Host of comfort features. Designed to make living with the new 9-3 as convenient as possible, these include: door mirrors that automatically reposition after being folded; a remote window and sunroof operation and "halo" perimeter lighting at night

Built Around the Driver
In common with all Saab cars, the new 9-3 is built from "the driver outwards". That means the cabin ergonomics, the instrumentation, the controls and the seating position are all developed from the driver's perspective. Its safety functions are, of course, shared by all who use the car. Main highlights include:

• Cockpit feel. The main instrument panel arcs around the driver. Logical layout and tactile feel to controls. Steering wheel adjusts for both rake and reach. Green instrument illumination and Night Panel function for restful night driving
• High position display. Saab Information Display (SID) located on top of the fascia near the base of the windscreen, close the driver's natural field of vision. Screen shows satellite navigation directions, as well as radio settings and warnings
• Structural strength. With a torsional rigidity of 22,000 Nm/degree of deflection, the bodyshell is more than twice as stiff as its predecessor's. This contributes to outstanding ride and refinement, handling and safety properties
• Designed for Real-life Safety. 75 crash configurations carried out during development, utilizing Saab's 6,000-strong database of real-life road accidents. Tests include truck-to-car side impacts, car-to-car frontal impacts with a closing speed of 120 kph and replica moose impacts
• Second generation Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR). Pioneered by Saab, these help prevent neck injury for front seat occupants in rear-end impacts. Now improved for even quicker action
• Integrated safety features. Seat belt pre-tensioning and load limiting for all outer seating positions, combined with dual-stage front airbags, seat-mounted side airbags and side roof rail airbags

Announcing the arrival of the new model, Peter Augustsson, Saab Automobile's President and CEO, said: "This car offers a level of driver involvement and responsive performance never seen before from Saab. The integration of a fine-handling chassis with the new, refined powertrain delivers a true "fun-to-drive" package.

"It is a formula designed to appeal to young, premium car buyers who place a priority on a rewarding driving experience but who also want to express their individuality through choosing a distinctive, less commonplace brand."

2002-05-13

New Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan:
Technical Specifications and performance

Engine
Gasoline:
1988 cc. 4 cylinders. In-line. Aluminium cylinder head and block.
Turbocharged, intercooled. DOHC, 16-valve. Balancer shafts. Dual-mass flywheel. Front, transversely-mounted, hydraulically-damped. Front wheel drive.
Diesel: 2171 cc. 4 cylinders. In-line. Aluminium cylinder head and cast iron block. Turbocharged, intercooled. SOHC, 16-valve. Balancer shafts. Dual-mass flywheel. Front, transversely-mounted, hydraulically-damped. Front wheel drive.

Transmission
5/6 speed manual gearbox. 5 speed automatic transmission, Saab Sentronic manual selection.
Steering wheel buttons selection, automatic (option).
Clutch:
Single, dry-plate, diaphragm spring.

Suspension
Front:
McPherson struts and gas shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Hyrdoformed sub-frame.
Rear:
Independent, four link, including toe-link. Coil springs. Gas shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Sub-frame.

Steering
Rack and pinion, hydraulic power assistance. Turning circle: 10,8 m (kerb to kerb)
Lock to lock: 2,97 turns

Weights
Kerb:1440 - 1490 kg (EU)
Max. gross:1970 - 2020 kg (EU)
Max. towing weight: 1600 kg (braked)
750 kg (unbraked)
Distribution:60% f /40% r

Capacities
Fuel tank:62 liters
Trunk:425 dm3
Washer Reservoir: 5.0 liters

M5 = five-speed manual gearbox
M6 = six-speed manual gearbox
A5 = five-speed automatic gearbox
* preliminary figures

2002-05-13

The first sketch:
Saab engineer creates marketing image

During the early development stages of the new 9-3 Sport Sedan, Saab's chief chassis engineer, Ekkehard Schwartz, was asked to describe the car's core appeal. Instead of sketching anything from the car itself, his immediate response was to draw the image of an exhilarated driver.

The whole idea, he explained, was to build the car around the driver, focusing on achieving an interactive experience behind the wheel. Every element of the design of the new Saab 9-3, therefore, aims to improve communication to and from the car, involving rather than insulating the driver. That includes the design of the chassis, the powertrain, the steering, all controls and the immediate driver's environment, the cockpit of the car.

Rounding off the sketch, he added a big grin to the driver's face. The pure joy of driving is, ultimately, what it's all about, he concluded.

Ekkehard's original sketch has now been adopted as a key image in the international marketing campaign to announce the arrival of Saab's first compact sports sedan. "My artistic abilities may be rather limited, but it is clearly the message that counts," he said. "although I think I shall be staying with my career in chassis development work."