2005 Saab 9-3 in Woolwich, ME - $2,995

Sporting major exterior enhancements inspired by the automaker's Aero X concept vehicle, the dynamic 9-3 range makes waves for Saab in 2008. The dramatic new look is supported by a more powerful engine designed to maintain Saab's driver focused image and a new model, the 9-3 TurboX.

Offered in both sedan and SportCombi body styles, design cues incorporated into the 9-3 from the Aero X concept include a larger grille, smaller side grilles, semi-overwrap V-shaped hood, new front fenders, new front and rear bumpers, new headlamps, new fog lamps and tail lamps, color-matched Aero rocker panels on all models, new door handles and flat wiper blades to reduce noise and improve vehicle aesthetics.

Power for the TurboX is provided by the 2.8L turbocharged V6 prime mover, which receives five more horses for 2008. Torque is transferred to the street via the standard six-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic is an available option.

A newly available pre-emptive Active-on-Demand all-wheel drive system is optional. The Haldex Gen 4 cross-wheel drive (XWD) technology brings additional functionality while preserving the fun-to-drive attributes that characterize Saab vehicles.

The XWD system is activated only when required, improving fuel efficiency and giving the car a rear-wheel drive feel. It electronically engages the clutch before take-off, avoiding wheel spin and achieving immediate maximum traction. No front wheel slip is required before the rear wheels are engaged.

On the road equipped with the XWD system, the TurboX sedan delivers a uniquely Saab mix of comfort and performance. Handling and control are firm and reassuring but not to the typical German European extreme. The sedan has a seamless well of energy that responds almost intuitively to the driver's inputs.

Additional hardware upgrades and enhancements for the TurboX include: power performance disc brakes, limited slip differential and tire repair kit (the compact spare tire is deleted).

The 9-3 interior was extensively redesigned last year. Enhancements for 2008 include the addition of XM Satellite radio and OnStar communications system to the standard equipment roster.

The Saab 9-3 model line-up is built from "the driver outward". That means that cabin ergonomics, instrumentation, controls and seating position are all developed from the driver's perspective. As a result, the advanced safety features benefit all who use these vehicles.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 105.3; overall length: 182.5; width: 69.0; height: 56.4.

SportCombi

Wheelbase: 105.3; overall length: 183.2; width: 69.4; height: 60.6 -- All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.8L V6 turbo -- 255 hp at 5,500 rpm and 258 lbs-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm (FWD); 280hp at 5,000 rpm and 295 lbs-ft of torque at 2,150 rpm (XWD).

Transmission: six-speed manual or six-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 16 city/26 hwy. (manual); 15 city/24 hwy. (automatic).

Cargo capacity: 15.0 (sedan); 72.3 cu. ft. (SportCombi).

Parts content -- country of origin

Final assembly point: Trollhattan, Sweden.

US/Canada: 1.0 percent.

Sweden: 19.0 percent.

Germany: 33.0 percent.

Engine: Australia.

Transmission: Japan (automatic); Germany (manual).

Safety features

Dual front airbags, dual roof mounted head curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, OnStar communications system, engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry, front/rear fog lights, daytime running lights, central locking system, electronic stability control, traction control, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, limited slip differential, tire repair kit. Optional safety features include a navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Free scheduled maintenance: 3-year/36,000 mile.

Corrosion: 10-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Saab 9-3 TurboX start from $41,765 for the sedan and $42,565 for the SportCombi. Destination charges add $745.

#####