Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Saab devotees rally to save last 9-3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/saab-devotees-rally-to-save-last-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/saab-devotees-rally-to-save-last-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/02/saab-devotees-rally-to-save-last-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Saab 9-3 Griffin sedan - white - front three-quarter view

The folks over at Saabs United have been a fixture on the Swedish automobile scene for some time now, cementing themselves as the hub for all manner of Saab news and gossip as the fight to keep the brand alive has ebbed and flowed over the past couple of years. So significant was SU's bond with the automaker that its principle, Steven Wade, had the ear of buyer Victor Muller throughout the General Motors extrication process, and eventually Wade went to work for Saab itself, leaving others to run the website.

With Saab having slipped into bankruptcy and the company's Trollhättan plant idled, Saabs United now finds itself at the center of a new fight - an effort to preserve the final 9-3 - possibly the final Saab ever. An Arctic White Griffin sedan, the 9-3 exists in a state of partial build but is scheduled for final assembly at the end of this month. The car is part of a special batch of about 50 partially finished cars and a cache of spares that Trollhättan dealership group ANA purchased from Saab's bankruptcy estate, and it will be for sale. Saabs United has taken it upon itself to rally the faithful in an attempt to purchase the car for donation to the Saab Cars Museum, which was itself only recently saved.

It seems only fitting that the 9-3 Griffin would join other final examples of various models in Saab's history at the Museum, but even then, the car's fate might not be entirely secure. According to SU, "A number of cars at the museum from the history of Saab that was written in the last two years are NOT secured. They are either borrowed to the museum or are still missing."

As of this writing, the funding effort is well on its way, with Saabs United faithful and various clubs and investors having raised over 15,000 Euros (around $19,750 USD), with a goal of 28,500 Euros ($37,500) within the next 18 days. If the total amount needed is not reached, fundraiser proceeds will still go to the Saab museum, and if extra money is raised, it'll be donated, too. If you're interested in learning more or making a donation, click here.

Saab devotees rally to save last 9-3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 May 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-39-39-3 griffinsaabsaab 9-3saabs unitedsaabsunitedWed, 02 May 2012 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20229269/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/02/saab-devotees-rally-to-save-last-9-3/20229269/article-detail.xml 20229269 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/saab-9-3-griffin-white_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/saab-9-3-griffin-white.jpg <![CDATA[Saab 9-3 to live on in Swedish Touring Car racing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/saab-9-3-to-live-on-in-swedish-touring-car-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/saab-9-3-to-live-on-in-swedish-touring-car-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/saab-9-3-to-live-on-in-swedish-touring-car-racing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Saab 9-3 TTA by Flash Engineering

Saab is dead. Long live Saab?

Well, at least in the Swedish Racing Elite League. Says Jan "Flash" Nilsson, driver and Managing Director of Flash Engineering, "I have longed for 40 years to see the fight between Saab and Volvo on the race tracks. It becomes reality this summer and my biggest dream is to get all Saab fans to the TTA races to cheer us on."

In addition to the Volvo Polestar S60 TTA sedan, the Saab 9-3 fielded by Flash Engineering and Team Tidö will go up against efforts from BMW and Citroën. And, intriguingly, the team will have the support of what's left of the Saab company in Sweden - Flash will be sponsored in part by Saab Parts, the organization created to handle Saab repairs now that the automaker is in receivership, along with the Saab Dealer Organization.

Check out the complete press release below, which is chock full of historically significant Saab cars and drivers, along with the high-res gallery of the racing Saab 9-3 above.

Continue reading Saab 9-3 to live on in Swedish Touring Car racing

Saab 9-3 to live on in Swedish Touring Car racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-39-3 ttaflash engineeringflash racingjan nilssonsaabsaab 9-3swedish elite racing leagueswedish touring car championshipttaWed, 14 Mar 2012 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20193279/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/14/saab-9-3-to-live-on-in-swedish-touring-car-racing/20193279/article-detail.xml 20193279 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/saab-9-3-tta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/saab-9-3-tta.jpg <![CDATA[China's Youngman to wage new bid for Saab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/chinas-youngman-to-wage-new-bid-for-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/chinas-youngman-to-wage-new-bid-for-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/chinas-youngman-to-wage-new-bid-for-saab/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Ladies and gentlemen, those of you preparing to leave the theater because you thought the Saab opera was over, well, take a seat. After sinking a fair bit of money into the troubled Swedish automaker while chasing the deal, Youngman isn't ready to walk away. According to Reuters, the Chinese firm is ready to make a new bid for the Swedish brand as soon as next week, and it could be worth more than a billion Euros. Stay with us, because as you might expect, it's a bit convoluted.

The door appeared closed on Youngman for good when General Motors, which engineered much of the technology in the 9-5 and 9-4X, said it wouldn't do a deal that risked harming its position in China (read: they feared they might lose their intellectual property rights). As it was, the Saab deal brokered with Youngman would make General Motors compete against another company for which GM was building cars and that was using GM technology. To get around that, it appears that Youngman has proposed buying Saab and not using GM tech, which, that's right, would mean walking away from the still-new 9-5 and 9-4X. Instead, Youngman would restart Saab production with a brand-new 9-3 (said to be the car in the grainy image above) and would hope to do it in as little as 15 weeks.

The Chinese company has Saab's Phoenix architecture in mind, which is ready to go and said to be essentially free of GM intellectual property. According to Just-Auto, Phoenix-based Lotus variants for China are also under consideration, but with Proton's pending sale to DRB-Hicom that plan seems a little unsure. A group of European auto suppliers headed by Bosch has traveled to China, on Youngman's dime, to investigate the possibilities and practicalities of just such a plan. As to how aggressive GM might to safeguard whatever interests it has in the Phoenix platform, the supplier-body CEO quipped, "The 9-3 is not a big risk to GM - there has to be a limit to how nasty they can be."

On top of that, there might be questions about how many of Saab's assets are still even available for purchase. Reuters said that engineering firm Semcon SMC.ST agreed to buy key Saab technology, but a report on fan site Saabs United counters that the sale was declined over factory utilization. Saabs United also says that a Youngman-built 9-3 might only be sold in China. The Youngman CEO and his daughter Rachel Pang are apparently due in Sweden next week to further the bidding process, but we should have more word on the Bosch-led supplier trip soon enough.

China's Youngman to wage new bid for Saab originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boschclepasaabsaab 9-3saab bankruptcysaab salesemcon smc.styoungmanyoungman lotusThu, 19 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20152085/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/chinas-youngman-to-wage-new-bid-for-saab/20152085/article-detail.xml 20152085 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/next-saab-9-3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/next-saab-9-3-628.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #254 LIVE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-254-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-254-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-254-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast

We record Episode #254 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and you can drop us your questions via our Q&A module below. Check out our discussion topics or chime in to help determine what else the crew chats about this evening. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #254

[UStream] Interact LIVE at UStream - 10PM Eastern on Monday, October 11, 2011
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #254 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3autoblog podcast 254 topicscivicconsumer reportsfordft-86ft86hondahonda civicpang dasaabsaab 9-3toyota ft-86youngmanMon, 31 Oct 2011 17:11:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20095032/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/31/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-254-live/20095032/article-detail.xml 20095032 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Are you the next Saab 9-3?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/are-you-the-next-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/are-you-the-next-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/are-you-the-next-saab-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Next Saab 9-3 rendering

Assuming the Chinese government approves the sale of Saab to the Pang Da and Youngman companies (a very big "if," truth be told), the Swedish automaker could indeed have a bright future... in time. With the new 9-5 and 9-4X not in need of any dire updates just yet, it'd be smart for Saab to focus on reworking its biggest volume offering, the aged 9-3. And judging by this sketch found on Swedish site Svd.se, the next 9-3 (likely called "Ninety-Three") could be quite a rakish yet practical entry into the entry-level luxury segment. The image above is said to be taken from an internal planning document, and it depicts a handsome five-door shape, with Saab's characteristic cantilevered "hockey stick" greenhouse and turbine-shaped wheels.

We at Autoblog were very fond of the three- and five-door 9-3 bodystyles from the late 1990s and early 2000s (as well as the 99 and 900 model ranges that sired them), and with more automakers proving that dramatically sloped hatchbacks can have a place in the luxury segment (thanks, Audi A7 and Porsche Panamera), the rebirth of a proper liftback 9-3 could be a strong move for the beleaguered company. Even from this grainy image, we can see a lot of influence from the Phoenix concept that bowed in Geneva earlier this year, albeit without the showcar's flashier touches.

Still, who knows if this car will ever see the light of day based on Saab's current shaky situation. For now, we're crossing our fingers. Head over to Svd.se for the full story (and more photos).

Are you the next Saab 9-3? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-32013 saab 9-39-393ninety-threesaabsaab 9-3saab 93saab ninety-threeswedish automobilevictor mullerMon, 31 Oct 2011 12:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20094748/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/31/are-you-the-next-saab-9-3/20094748/article-detail.xml 20094748 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/next-saab-9-3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/next-saab-9-3.jpg <![CDATA[Saab may drop 9-3 name for car's successor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/saab-may-drop-9-3-name-for-cars-successor/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/saab-may-drop-9-3-name-for-cars-successor/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/10/saab-may-drop-9-3-name-for-cars-successor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Saab 9-3

Saab has said it may kill the long-standing 9-3 nameplate in early 2013. A successor to the popular model is in the works for that timeframe (assuming, you know, that the company survives for that long), but Saab brass say they haven't decided whether to kill the moniker.

If Saab does decide to switch things up, the car's new handle will likely be pulled from the automaker's heritage, and for now, that's all the company will say about the possible re-naming. Saab also said that it is looking to refire production as early as the end of this month, and finally managed to pay their white-collar workers in full this month.

Saab may drop 9-3 name for car's successor originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-39-3saabsaab 9-3Wed, 10 Aug 2011 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20014150/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/10/saab-may-drop-9-3-name-for-cars-successor/20014150/article-detail.xml 20014150 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-saab-9-3-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-saab-9-3-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Saab 9-3 ePower test fleet being assembled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/saab-9-3-epower-test-fleet-being-assembled/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/saab-9-3-epower-test-fleet-being-assembled/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/saab-9-3-epower-test-fleet-being-assembled/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

saab 9-3 epower
Saab 9-3 ePower assembly - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite Spyker's adventures in Chinese business negotiation, Saab is doing everything in its power to try and push forward. The 9-4X is reportedly the only Saab vehicle currently being produced, but it seems another is also coming to life. A fleet of Saab 9-3 ePower electric wagons are being put together for testing.

Hand-assembled in a room just off the main assembly line, the 9-3 ePower is Saab's first all-electric vehicle, and the automaker will be establishing a test fleet of 70 vehicles. The battery system is said to be good for a 124-mile range with a top speed of around 90 miles per hour. Fleet testing is scheduled to begin later this year.

Saab 9-3 ePower test fleet being assembled originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 May 2011 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3 epower9-3 epower assemblyelectric vehicleev wagonsaabsaab 9-3saab 9-3 epowersaab assemblyTue, 24 May 2011 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19948146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/24/saab-9-3-epower-test-fleet-being-assembled/19948146/article-detail.xml 19948146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/008-saab-9-3-ev-1306239753_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/008-saab-9-3-ev-1306239753.jpg <![CDATA[Saab 9-3 Sport Combi unlikely but awesome Viper V10 transplant recipient]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/16/saab-9-3-sport-combi-unlikely-but-awesome-viper-v10-transplant-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/16/saab-9-3-sport-combi-unlikely-but-awesome-viper-v10-transplant-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/16/saab-9-3-sport-combi-unlikely-but-awesome-viper-v10-transplant-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Saab 9-3 SportCombi Viper
Saab 9-3 Sport Combi Viper V10 - Click above for image gallery

Of the multiple sacred laws of hot rodding, "Thou shall put big engines in small cars" is by far our favorite. This line of thinking spans cultures and has led to the creation of many a magnificent machine. Machines like this Saab 9-3 Sport Combi with a kicking V10 sourced from the mighty Dodge Viper under its hood. This thing puts a whole new spin on the term "sport wagon." As you might imagine, shoving a longitudinally mounted lump of American engineering into the engine bay of a small Swedish long roof required significant re-engineering of the 9-3 body structure, including fabricating an entirely new transmission tunnel.

With that big lump situated behind the front axle and a set of stoppers lifted from the big snake as well, we have to imagine that this beast is an absolute terror on the track. Who do we have to bribe for a little seat time? Check out the full build over in Zatzy forums thanks to contributor mrspringer.

Saab 9-3 Sport Combi unlikely but awesome Viper V10 transplant recipient originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 May 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-39-3 sportcombi v109-3 v109-3 viper v10dodge vipersaabsaab 9-3saab 9-3 sportcombi v10sport combisport kombisportkombiviperMon, 16 May 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19941344/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/16/saab-9-3-sport-combi-unlikely-but-awesome-viper-v10-transplant-r/19941344/article-detail.xml 19941344 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/04-saab-9-3-viper-v10-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/04-saab-9-3-viper-v10-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Saab celebrates 25 years of topless motoring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/saab-celebrates-25-years-of-topless-motoring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/saab-celebrates-25-years-of-topless-motoring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/saab-celebrates-25-years-of-topless-motoring/#commentsFiled under: ,

25 years of saab convertibles
Saab celebrates 25 years of convertibles - Click above for high-res image gallery

Saab appears to have beaten its short-term cash crunch (for now), making this as good a time as any to celebrate 25 years of Saab convertibles. The Swedish automaker has built 300,000 droptops since the first Saab 900 convertible hit the scene in 1986 as a 1987 model, giving the automaker a foothold in the luxury convertible market.

The first-generation 900 convertible was an unlikely hit for an automaker best known for its foul weather prowess, iconoclastic styling, turbo expertise and sensible packaging. Despite this, the 900 droptop was popular enough that it led to a 12-month waiting list, but it was the second generation 900 droptop that really made a go of it. Saab sold over 149,000 models from 1994 to 2002, giving the Swedish automaker a much-needed boost. Team Trollhättan followed that success with the 9-3 we have today, which has sold nearly 100,000 units since 2003.

Hit the jump for a more thorough rendition of Saab's drop-top history. Saab may sit in the middle of the land of snow and ice, but the Swedish automaker can definitely make a solid convertible for those days when the sun does shine.

Continue reading Saab celebrates 25 years of topless motoring

Saab celebrates 25 years of topless motoring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 May 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25 years of saab convertiblesconvertiblesaabsaab 9-3saab 900TrollhättanWed, 11 May 2011 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19935542/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/11/saab-celebrates-25-years-of-topless-motoring/19935542/article-detail.xml 19935542 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/saab-convertibles-s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/saab-convertibles-s.jpg <![CDATA[Beijing Autos shows T60 based on Saab 9-3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/25/beijing-autos-shows-t60-based-on-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/25/beijing-autos-shows-t60-based-on-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/25/beijing-autos-shows-t60-based-on-saab-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Beijing Auto T60You never know what you'll find cruising the halls of the Shanghai Motor Show. China Car Times has discovered a true oddity of automotive evolution - the Beijing Auto T60 Sedan. What's so curious about this particular four-door? As you may recall, BAIC recently got its hands on the old Saab 9-3 platform, and word on the web is that the automaker was itching to prove that it can hone aging bones into an attractive vehicle. The result is the T60. According to the Chinese automaker, the concept will reach production by 2012.

According to CCT, the T60 received a warm welcome from the auto show crowd. Though the vehicle makes use of design elements lifted from Volvo, Honda and Lexus, the overall effect is attractive enough and as far from the aging 9-3 as you can get. Head over to China Car Times to see the full monty and to check out a complete gallery of the T60 concept.

[Source: China Car Times]

Beijing Autos shows T60 based on Saab 9-3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3baicbeijing autobeijing auto t60saabsaab 9-3shanghaishanghai 2011shanghai motor showt60Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19922622/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/25/beijing-autos-shows-t60-based-on-saab-9-3/19922622/article-detail.xml 19922622 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/beijing-auto-t60-front-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/beijing-auto-t60-front-250.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Saab 9-3 hatchback confirmed - but is a sedan?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/23/2012-saab-9-3-hatchback-confirmed-but-is-a-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/23/2012-saab-9-3-hatchback-confirmed-but-is-a-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/23/2012-saab-9-3-hatchback-confirmed-but-is-a-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab PhoeniX concept car
Saab PhoeniX Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're in Washington D.C. this week attending the embargoed long-lead event for the 2011 Saab 9-4X, but that hasn't stopped us from inquiring about other key new products from the House of Griffin.

We've already seen mules of the next-generation 9-3 range undergoing testing, but thus far, we haven't seen any production bodywork or learned much in the way of specifics. A purist's return-to-form hatchback model has been rumored for some time now, and thanks to Magnus Hillerborn, Saab's Vehicle Validation Engineer, Autoblog can now confirm that a five-door is indeed headed into production along with the expected convertible variant. Interestingly enough, what isn't yet confirmed for the 2012 9-3 is a sedan bodystyle.

The next 9-3 was nearly finalized when Spyker purchased Saab last year from General Motors, but Victor Muller and Co. felt that there was so much work to be done that new chief designer Jason Castriota set immediately to work on making the new car more 'Saabish.' The changes are so significant that Hillerborn says he imagines GM executives will be "very surprised" when they see the production car, which is tipped to take design cues from the PhoeniX concept car that debuted earlier this month at the Geneva Motor Show. Hillerborn says that the hatchback will likely be five-door only (presumably a SportCombi wagon variant will follow), though we imagine there are some three-door renderings knocking about in Trollhattan. Hillerborn promises a very sleek and unique hatchback, one that should appeal to traditional sedan buyers as well (read: not bulbous and overtly hatch-like, but more streamlined).

A modestly retouched 2011 9-3 range debuted in Geneva alongside the PhoeniX showcar, but it will only have to hang on for about a year before the all-new generation appears. A traditional 9-3 sedan is under consideration and would likely help move some units in the U.S., but it apparently has not yet been signed off on, meaning that the five-door will form the heart of the range. With Saab's sales in a slump in nearly all of its world markets, one thing is for sure: the new 9-3 can't arrive soon enough.


Gallery: Saab PhoeniX Concept: Geneva 2011

Saab PhoeniX ConceptSaab PhoeniX ConceptSaab PhoeniX ConceptSaab PhoeniX ConceptSaab PhoeniX Concept

Gallery: Saab Phoenix Concept


Live photos copyright (C)2011 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

2012 Saab 9-3 hatchback confirmed - but is a sedan? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-39-39-3 five-door9-3 hatchbackbreakingexclusivemagnus hillerbornsaabsaab 9-3Wed, 23 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19889833/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/23/2012-saab-9-3-hatchback-confirmed-but-is-a-sedan/19889833/article-detail.xml 19889833 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-saab-phoenix-concept630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-saab-phoenix-concept630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Saab to use new modular platform for next 9-3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/report-saab-to-use-new-modular-platform-for-next-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/report-saab-to-use-new-modular-platform-for-next-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/report-saab-to-use-new-modular-platform-for-next-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Saab 9-3

According to Autocar, Saab is itching to go modular. The company is apparently walking away from plans to significantly update its plan to run a much-modified General Motors Epsilon I architecture in favor of a new strategy that includes a clean-sheet design. Autocar cites unnamed sources inside the company's headquarters who have indicated that engineers are currently whittling away on a versatile platform that will form the basis of everything form a diminutive 9-2 to a lengthy 9-7 and everything in between. That includes the confirmed-for-production 9-3, 9-5 and 9-4x. Autocar believes that the rumored 9-1 will use different bones.

That all sounds good, but the news runs completely against the grain of everything we've heard about the company's production plans so far. Victor Muller, the company's CEO, has previously told Autoblog that the 9-3 successor will be based on a much-modified version of the Epsilon I architecture that's so thoroughly altered that Saab will be able to claim the chassis as its own intellectual property. As the next 9-3 is part of Saab's fully funded business plan, we have trouble seeing the Swedish automaker going to the considerable added expense of developing an all-new, from-scratch platform - particularly when global sales of the firm's current range have been slow to take off.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Saab to use new modular platform for next 9-3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-39-3epsilon irumorsaabsaab 9-3saab platformWed, 16 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19881542/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/16/report-saab-to-use-new-modular-platform-for-next-9-3/19881542/article-detail.xml 19881542 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/9-3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/9-3.jpg <![CDATA[Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition officially revealed prior to Geneva debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/saab-9-3-convertible-independence-edition-officially-revealed-pr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/saab-9-3-convertible-independence-edition-officially-revealed-pr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/saab-9-3-convertible-independence-edition-officially-revealed-pr/#commentsFiled under: ,

Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition
Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

A couple of days after reports of a special edition Saab 9-3 surfaced in celebration of the company's independence from General Motors, the automaker has confirmed its particulars and corrected a few details along the way.

The 9-3 Independence Edition celebrates not only Saab's liberation out from under the GM umbrella, but also the 25th anniversary of the company's first convertible. It's based on the Aero trim model, but while earlier reports suggested it could get the 220-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo from the 9-5, the special edition is actually driven by a 1.9-liter diesel four with 180 horses and a six-speed automatic.

Amber Orange metallic is the dominant color, coating the exterior and highlighting the cabin with trim on the parchment leather sport seats and stitching on the steering wheel. There's also grey piping on the floor mats and carbon-look leather on the instrument panel, levers and handles. And while those special 18-inch wheels may look like they've got five spokes, but actually have twenty.

Only 366 examples of the Independence Edition will be made in all - one for each day of this year and another to kick off the next. Follow the jump for the press release and check out the pair of images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition


[Source: Saab]

Continue reading Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition officially revealed prior to Geneva debut

Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition officially revealed prior to Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>saabSaab 9-3Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence EditionSaab 9-3 Independence EditionWed, 23 Feb 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19855649/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/23/saab-9-3-convertible-independence-edition-officially-revealed-pr/19855649/article-detail.xml 19855649 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/web630-63163saa-1298488682_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/web630-63163saa-1298488682.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Saab 9-3 gets styling upgrades, powertrain enhancements]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/2012-saab-9-3-gets-styling-upgrades-powertrain-enhancements/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/2012-saab-9-3-gets-styling-upgrades-powertrain-enhancements/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/23/2012-saab-9-3-gets-styling-upgrades-powertrain-enhancements/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Saab 9-3
2012 Saab 9-3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Saab has pulled back the curtain on the 2012 9-3, available once again in sedan, SportWagon and convertible variants. Across the range, buyers can now expect to be met with a new front fascia with the company's signature headlight design borrowed from the sultry 9-5. Likewise, the grille now packs a larger Saab wing across the nose of the vehicle and all models will come with fog lights as standard equipment. Out back, the new 9-3 is dominated by a redesigned valance, and sedan models all come with a standard spoiler for the first time.

In the UK, buyers can spec their 2012 Saab 9-3 with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 163 or 220 horsepower depending on configuration, as well as the tried-and-true 1.9-liter twin-turbo-diesel four cylinder. The oil-burning mill will continue to be available in 130, 160 and 180 horsepower variants. Saab says that the company has managed to increase the efficiency of the company's gasoline engines by around four percent thanks to tricks like variable valve timing, direct injection and twin-scroll turbocharging. Expect this new 2.0-liter mill to trickle over to the United States, as well. Hit the jump for the full press release.


Gallery: 2012 Saab 9-3

2012 Saab 9-32012 Saab 9-3

[Source: Saab]

Continue reading 2012 Saab 9-3 gets styling upgrades, powertrain enhancements

2012 Saab 9-3 gets styling upgrades, powertrain enhancements originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 9-32012 Saab 9-39-3saabsaab 9-3Wed, 23 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19855712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/23/2012-saab-9-3-gets-styling-upgrades-powertrain-enhancements/19855712/article-detail.xml 19855712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/saab-9-3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/saab-9-3.jpg <![CDATA[Saab 9-3 Independence Edition sneaks out ahead of Geneva debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/20/saab-9-3-independence-edition-sneaks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/20/saab-9-3-independence-edition-sneaks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/20/saab-9-3-independence-edition-sneaks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Saab 9-3 Independence Edition

The Saab 9-3 Independence Edition (based on the Aero Convertible) marks the day, February 23, one year ago when Saab left the General Motors corporate org chart to once again become an independent automaker (inasmuch as it can be called that, since it's still owned by Spyker). Expected to debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show, the Saab 9-3 Independence Edition has leaked onto the web a little early.

Unique Independence Edition touches include a new color called Sunset Red and special 18" wheels. Meanwhile, the interior gets parchment leather seats with an orange stripe down the middle, an orange needle on the turbo guage, a Super Sport steering wheel and an assortment of other interior bits from Saab specialist Hirsch. The best part, though, is that the 9-3 Independence Edition also gets the 220-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo four from the Saab 9-5.

Enamored? Try not to be, because with only 366 individually-numbered examples to be sold worldwide, the likelihood of getting your hands on one is pretty slim indeed. Thanks for the tip, Knape!

[Source: SaabsUnited]

Saab 9-3 Independence Edition sneaks out ahead of Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Feb 2011 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 geneva motor show9-3genevageneva 2011geneva motor showsaabsaab 9-3saab 9-3 convertiblesaab 9-3 independence editionSun, 20 Feb 2011 10:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19852050/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/20/saab-9-3-independence-edition-sneaks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/19852050/article-detail.xml 19852050 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/9-3orange_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/9-3orange.jpg <![CDATA[Saab hatchback concept teased ahead of Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/11/saab-hatchback-concept-teased-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/11/saab-hatchback-concept-teased-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/11/saab-hatchback-concept-teased-ahead-of-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Saab at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show

It looks like Saab is planning a party for this year's Geneva Motor Show. The Scandinavian automaker has just rolled out its invitations to the shindig, and the cards feature a whopping total of four cars covered by sheets. According to the company, the public at large will get its first look an all-new concept car from the automaker, and judging by the inset image below, it looks like it could be a return-to-form hatchback that presages the next 9-3. In addition to the show car, there will likely be special edition versions of the 9-3 and 9-3 Cabriolet. Of course, the 9-4X crossover will be on the show stand, and the freshly teased 9-5 SportCombi is also set to make an appearance.

Saab Concept CarAccording to enthusiast site Saabs United, both the tweaked 9-3 and 9-3 Cabriolet are said to be getting a pre-Geneva unveil on February 23. Expect to see full photos and greater detail on what those models will have to offer as we get closer to that date.

Hopefully, these new models will help drum up some interest in Saab. Last year, the Swedish automaker struggled to find traction after being released from General Motors' shackles, selling a mere 5,445 units in the States. Officials have earmarked a goal of triple that figure for 2011.

[Sources: Saabs United, Saab]

Saab hatchback concept teased ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 geneva motor show9-39-3 cabriolet9-59-5 sportcombiconceptgeneva motor showsaabsaab 9-3saab 9-5saab conceptsaab concept carsportcombiFri, 11 Feb 2011 15:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19840113/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/11/saab-hatchback-concept-teased-ahead-of-geneva/19840113/article-detail.xml 19840113 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/saab-geneva-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/saab-geneva-630.jpg <![CDATA[Saab officially teams up with Hirsch Performance for high-performance parts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/12/saab-officially-teams-up-with-hirsch-performance-for-high-perfor/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/12/saab-officially-teams-up-with-hirsch-performance-for-high-perfor/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/12/saab-officially-teams-up-with-hirsch-performance-for-high-perfor/#commentsFiled under: ,

Saab 9-5 SportCombi with Hirsch body-kit

Saab and Hirsch have made it official: The Swiss producer of go-fast parts will now offer a full line of upgrades for Saab vehicles in North America. Beginning in the spring of 2011, customers will be available to order Hirsch Performance products at select Saab dealers around the country.

A variety of parts will be offered for 2007-2011 Saab 9-3s and 2010-2011 9-5s, including engine mapping upgrades, spoilers, aero ground effects, suspension tuning, exhaust upgrades and even interior upfits like a carbon instrument panel. The Hirsch parts will be installed at dealerships and will not hinder the vehicle's warranty. Pricing and availability will be announced in the coming months. Follow the jump for Saab's official release.

[Source: Saab | Image: Hirsch-Perfomance]

Continue reading Saab officially teams up with Hirsch Performance for high-performance parts

Saab officially teams up with Hirsch Performance for high-performance parts originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarkethirschhirsch performancesaabsaab 9-3saab 9-5saab hirschWed, 12 Jan 2011 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19798301/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/12/saab-officially-teams-up-with-hirsch-performance-for-high-perfor/19798301/article-detail.xml 19798301 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/pupebodykit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/pupebodykit.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Saab looking to sell cars in China, Russia, Brazil and Mexico]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/12/report-saab-looking-to-sell-cars-in-china-russia-brazil-and-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/12/report-saab-looking-to-sell-cars-in-china-russia-brazil-and-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/12/report-saab-looking-to-sell-cars-in-china-russia-brazil-and-m/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2010 Saab 9-5 Aero - First Drive
2010 Saab 9-5 Aero - Click above for high-res image gallery

The next Saab 9-3 will arrive in 2012, so the company is busy digging the sales channels and tributaries that will put the car in growth markets as soon as it gets here. According to Bloomberg, it is negotiating distribution deals in China, Russia, India and Mexico that will give it presences in some locales it hasn't served since 2008, when General Motors pulled back on Saab commitments,

The deals in the works now are for distribution only. Local production in places like China would allow for a far larger magnitude of sales - 5,000 annual sales vs. 50,000, for instance - but Saab's first aim to to build the dealer network by which it can market and sell its cars effectively. It seeks to have deals in place in three of those countries by the end of the year, with an India deal sought by the end of 2011.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Saab 9-5


Photos by Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 AOL.

[Source: Bloomberg]

Report: Saab looking to sell cars in China, Russia, Brazil and Mexico originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>distributionsaabsaab 9-3saab 9-5saab chinasaab distributionsaab indiasaab russiasaab south americaTue, 12 Oct 2010 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19668723/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/12/report-saab-looking-to-sell-cars-in-china-russia-brazil-and-m/19668723/article-detail.xml 19668723 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/lead1saab95fd2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/lead1saab95fd2010.jpg <![CDATA[Saab marks 50th anniversary of Erik Carlsson's first RAC win with special 9-3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/07/saab-marks-50th-anniversary-of-erik-carlssons-first-rac-win-wit/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/07/saab-marks-50th-anniversary-of-erik-carlssons-first-rac-win-wit/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/07/saab-marks-50th-anniversary-of-erik-carlssons-first-rac-win-wit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Erik "Mr Saab" Carlsson and the Saab 9-3 Aero Carlsson - Click above for high-res image gallery

Erik Carlsson, also known as Mr. Saab, is a rallying icon directly tied to the Swedish automaker's lore. 50 years ago, Carlsson won his first British RAC rally title in a three-cylinder, 750 c.c. Saab 96. He went on to win the event two more times - in a row. Carlsson took podium positions for Saab in rallies around the world, and if you look at his racing history, it's clear that Carlsson knows a thing or two about car control and motorsports. He has always driven Saabs and was even born in Trollhättan, the automaker's home town. So, what better time to honor him than now with a limited-edition Saab 9-3? The Saab 9-3 Aero Carlsson is being produced by Saab Great Britain and only 96 are going to be made, so U.S. Griffinistas are sadly out of luck.

The racing legend was honored during a luncheon at the RAC Club in London. The special-edition 280-horsepower 9-3 was announced and then displayed alongside a classic 96. A pleased Carlsson noted:
"This is a great occasion for me, it has been wonderful to see so many old friends again, including Stuart [Turner] who did such a fantastic job reading the maps. I wouldn't have won without his help. I also feel very honored to have a car named after me. Anyone who loves driving and is as passionate about Saab as I am, will be excited about getting behind the wheel."
Hop the jump for the full press release and check out the high-res images below.


Gallery: Rally Legend Erik "Mr. Saab" Carlsson

Rally Legend Erik Rally Legend Erik Rally Legend Erik Rally Legend Erik

[Source: Saab]

Continue reading Saab marks 50th anniversary of Erik Carlsson's first RAC win with special 9-3

Saab marks 50th anniversary of Erik Carlsson's first RAC win with special 9-3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-39-3 aero carlssonbritish rac rallyErik Carlssongreat britainmr. saabrallysaabsaab 9-3saab 9-3 aero carlssonsaab 93saab 96Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19665008/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/07/saab-marks-50th-anniversary-of-erik-carlssons-first-rac-win-wit/19665008/article-detail.xml 19665008 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/saab-9-3-aero-carlsson_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/saab-9-3-aero-carlsson.jpg <![CDATA[Spyker confirms talks with BMW after reports that 2012 9-3 will get Bimmer power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/27/spyker-confirms-talks-with-bmw-after-reports-that-2012-9-3-will/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/27/spyker-confirms-talks-with-bmw-after-reports-that-2012-9-3-will/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/27/spyker-confirms-talks-with-bmw-after-reports-that-2012-9-3-will/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab 9-3

Spyker Cars has released an official statement confirming that it is in talks with BMW about future component sharing. The rumors surrounding this topic had initially suggested that BMW would lend Saab its Mini Countryman platform to underpin a smaller 9-2 model, but new reports indicate that the larger 9-3 could be the first to benefit from this partnership.

The next-generation Saab 9-3 is expected to launch in 2012. If the Spyker/BMW talks go well, the new 9-3 could be powered by an all-new Bimmer-sourced engine that produces around 220 horsepower, according to Bloomberg. BMW's EfficientDynamics technologies would naturally be used within this new powerplant, and according to the report, we shouldn't rule out the possibility of seeing this mill under the hood of the 9-5 flagship.

Of course, a teardrop-shaped Saab 9-2 is still on the table, with the automaker hoping to launch it by 2014 if it can find a partner. In addition to Countryman underworkings, Saab is reportedly hoping to use some of BMW's small-displacement diesel engines for use in the 9-2, as well. Follow the jump to read the official statement from Spyker after reviewing the Bloomberg report at the link below.

[Sources: Spyker Cars, Bloomberg]

Continue reading Spyker confirms talks with BMW after reports that 2012 9-3 will get Bimmer power

Spyker confirms talks with BMW after reports that 2012 9-3 will get Bimmer power originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-39-3bmwbmw enginesninety-twosaabSaab 9-2saab 9-3saab 92saab bmw partnershipSaab9-2Saab92spykerspyker carsMon, 27 Sep 2010 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19649773/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/27/spyker-confirms-talks-with-bmw-after-reports-that-2012-9-3-will/19649773/article-detail.xml 19649773 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/1202478_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/1202478.jpg -1 2