Saab 9-3

The new Saab 9-3 range features a new style, inspired by the Aero X concept. With the front bodywork completely new, brighter with a flourish, new door panels and new aesthetic details in the back and some engines which include the introduction of four-wheel-drive and diesel engines, gasoline and BioPower ( E85) more powerful.

Front design inspired by the Aero X concept
The new 9-3 range is visually distinguished by the bodywork from the A-pillar front totally renovated, with new moldings on the bumpers and front and rear lights, new doors and handles for the Sport Sedan and SportCombi. The curved fins extensions become standard across the range. For the Sport Sedan, for example, has changed 70% of the panels and exterior parts.

The grille is inspired by the Aero X concept car This is complemented by a totally new front light units that now incorporate a thin strip of light 'in the form of eyebrow' designed as a specific feature of the mark. These wraparound units culminate in an upward sloping rear edge, introducing a design element of the range 9-5 and the classic 900. The wing of the grid, which refers to Saab's aircraft heritage, has been retained.

The new look has another distinctive feature of Saab: a bonnet-type "shell" that closes the top of the front wings. On the surface of the hood is a broad U-shaped curve, which was already used on the Aero X and reflects the curvature of the windshield.

The aerodynamic front lines culminating in the whole front bumper splitter and making a deep trapezoidal air, which is even more pronounced on Aero versions. This is flanked by deep black vents which are framed, like the grille, in a matte chrome finish. As in the Aero X concept, the aim is to recall the engine air intakes of a jet plane.

In the rear of the vehicle, the Sport Sedan and Convertible now feature large headlights with optical matte white. The new bumper moldings are much deeper with curved, uninterrupted surfaces. The trunk lids of the Sport Sedan and Convertible are also altered to accommodate a new matte color knob with an integrated badge, similar that on the SportCombi

The elimination of all external rubbing strips from bumpers and doors (keyed on the Convertible) contributes to a cleaner and more cohesive appearance. New door panels now adopt a simple and neat with chrome handles and redesigned. Fins extensions are visually integrated front and rear with the scalloped corners of the new bumpers.

Other external enhancements include the introduction of flat wiper blades, to reduce wind noise, and new alloy wheels with 18-inch design now offered as an option on all variants apart from 1.8i models. Has also added two new colors to the range, including the finish "Snow Silver" metal similar to that seen on the Aero X.

Four-wheel-drive
The new 9-3 range features an active system of four-wheel-drive called Saab XWD. It is available in versions of the 9-3 Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi, in combination with the 2.8V6 turbo engine enhanced to 280 hp (206 kW), which delivers almost 15% more torque (400 Nm) to get the most traction available. Can be combined with manual gearboxes or six-speed automatic.

This system includes two features: activation preventive RWD to optimize traction at the start and electronically controlled limited slip differential (ELSD), allowing variable torque transfer between the rear wheels.

The Saab XWD is fully automated, a system capable of sending 100% of torque to the rear wheels when necessary.

The system is governed by its own control unit, which functions in harness with the engine control module ABS / ESP. The hardware consists of a Power Transfer Unit (PTU) in the front differential, which sends torque through a shaft to the Rear Drive Module (RDM). This incorporates a torque transfer mechanism (TTD) and an electronically controlled limited slip differential (ELSD) optional. Both are wet, multi-clutch units from Haldex.

Unlike others, the TTD is initially activated when the clutch plates are forced together under hydraulic pressure, thereby engaging the RDM. This proactive role is a valuable improvement in current technology, which requires the detection of wheel slip before the TTD is activated. This enhanced functionality provides the driver with maximum traction immediately for smooth acceleration and intense from rest without the possibility of any initial hesitation.

On the road, the torque is continuously distributed between the axles by the action of a valve in the TTD, which increases or reduces the pressure on the wet clutch plates. When cornering, Saab XWD rewards the driver by providing enhanced chassis dynamics, more finely balanced. Data from the ABS / ESP sensors measuring vehicle-wheel speed, deflection angle of trajectory and spin the wheel - are used for the careful programming of Saab XWD apply traction to the rear axle to balance the situations oversteer and understeer characteristics, improving stability and roadholding.

In highway cruising conditions, when traction or optimum grip is not an issue, only 5% to 10% of engine torque is typically transmitted to the rear wheels. This helps provide greater stability, reducing fuel consumption.

The "icing on the cake 'with Saab XWD is the eLSD option. In this market segment, this is the first application of a multi-slip differential, electronically controlled, in combination with all-wheel drive. Is installed alongside the RDM and operates via pressurized clutch plates on a principle similar to the TTD. In friction conditions, ice or water, for example, uses signals from sensors rear wheel speed and can transfer up to 40% of torque between the half-shafts, to whichever wheel has more adhesion.

The eLSD also gives greater control when cornering hard or completing a maneuver at high speed, as a lane change, by momentarily applying more or less torque to either wheel to help the rear of the car to follow more closely the direction of the front wheels. Thus, yaw damping effect can keep the car better balanced and more tightly controlled without the intervention "outside" of electronic aids to stability.

Installation of Saab XWD includes the fitment of a new rear subframe to carry the RDM, revised rear suspension geometry and new wheel hubs for receiving the bearings. The drive shaft, three pieces, working on two bearings with constant velocity joints for smooth operation with minimum friction losses. The wheelbase and rear track dimensions are unaltered. This system will be available from 2008.

Other improvements for driving including:

- "Sport Mode standard for automatic gearboxes: It can be activated by a button on the instrument panel, which allows automatic selection of speeds near the driver's intentions. If the driver momentarily lifts of the throttle, the current gear is held for more effective engine braking and a quicker acceleration when required. Downshifts are also faster and more closely to match the deceleration of the vehicle during braking.

- The lights lit cornering bi-xenon Optional: Provide better vision at night. The illumination is related to the direction, so that the bulbs can swivel up to 15 degrees when you take a bend or a corner more than 15 km / h. In highway driving over 120 km / h, the low beam is also automatically raised slightly for improved illumination without dazzling drivers traveling in the opposite direction.

New motor 1.9 TTiD
The 9-3 range features a powerful new four cylinder diesel engine with a unique two-stroke turboalimenado system, the world's first in the premium segment, giving levels of segment-leading efficiency. The 1.9-liter 16-valve, called TTiD, produces 180 hp (132 kW) and 400 Nm of torque, performance unmatched among competitor products on the market. With a combined consumption of 6.4 l/100km, this engine also offers class-leading economy, with a performance similar to the 2.8V6 turbo petrol engine.

The turbocharger housing is integrated two times hidden in the exhaust manifold and contains two turbochargers of different sizes. The pairs of leaflets of turbines / compressors are mounted sequentially and either can skip the entry and feeding the other being also able to work together.

This provision gives the driver a double advantage: instant torque at low revs through the low-inertia small turbo when the exhaust pressure is low, and high power at high rpm when activated the bigger turbo.

The Saab's turbocharged two-stage system uses a bypass valve which converts the exhaust gas flow between the two leaflets of turbine and separates the intake air compressor. Between zero and 1,500 rpm the exhaust feeds only the small turbo. Between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm the flow is split between the two turbines to ensure a smooth transition to full power above 3,000 rpm, when only the larger turbo is activated.

The integration of the two turbochargers in a housing is more effective than the series connection of two separate turbochargers. This ensures that the complex control and regulation of gas flows in the exhaust turbine and intake compressor sides is achieved with a minimal number of seals and connections.

TTiD engine is a significant advancement over the current 16-valve unit 1.9TiD as using common rail, direct and multiple injection. Works with a maximum pressure of 1.8 bar (1.4 bar for the current engine) compression ratio is slightly lower, with a value of 16.5:1 (17.5:1). The cast iron block, alloy cylinder head and all internal components are strengthened to withstand higher thermal pressures.

The system of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) is characterized by extremely efficient cooling and now includes an electronically controlled bypass for improved emissions. This, coupled with an exhaust particulate filter requires no maintenance, will ensure compliance with Euro 5 emission standards when they come into force in 2010.

Other technical enhancements include the use of an air-air intercooler larger for better cooling of the admission, the introduction of more effective pre-heating elements in the butt to facilitate cold start and the use of an intake manifold made of plastic to reduce weight.

The Saab TTiD meet the demands of drivers, who are increasingly less willing to sacrifice performance in the interests of greater economy. With power characteristics typical of a much larger engine, this unit demonstrates Saab's commitment to achieve the "right size", ie get the engine performance "great" but without the usual drawbacks, such as increased weight and volume or excessive fuel consumption.

In recognition of their outstanding performance, the Saab TTiD is available in Aero specification, as well as in the Linear and Vector. It is offered in three body styles, in addition to current 1.9 TiD engines of 120 hp (88 kW) and 150 hp (110 kW), can be combined with manual gearboxes or six-speed automatic.

New 2.0t BioPower
Saab leads the emerging flex-fuel segment in Europe with its unique BioPower concept, which combines turbocharging with the use of E85 fuel to deliver increased engine power and performance, reducing fossil CO2 emissions. The new Saab 9-3 range now features the introduction of a more powerful BioPower engine, in addition to the current option.

Running on E85 fuel (85% bioethanol/15% gasoline), the new 9-3 BioPower 2.0t engine develops 14% more maximum power (200 hp/147kW v 175 hp/129 kW) and 13% more torque motor (300 v 265 Nm). In the Sport Sedan, this gives acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h in 7.7 seconds and from 80 to 120 km / h in fifth gear in 10.0 seconds, compared to 8.5 sec and 11.1 seconds respectively, on gasoline.

The E85 has a higher octane rating (104 RON) than gasoline (95 RON), and turbocharging with Saab BioPower engine can activate the turbo at higher pressures and have a better distribution of power than with gasoline. This allows you to generate more power without detonation occurring in the engine.

The 32-bit system Trionic 8 engine management controls the throttle position, the ignition timing, fuel injection, measurement of air mass and turbo boost pressure. This system has facilitated re-programming the software for the conditions of ignition timing and proportion of air / fuel E85. The only physical modifications that had to be introduced into the aluminum engine include the use of valves and valve seats more resistant. It is also necessary to use bioethanol-compatible materials in the fuel system, including tank, pump, pipes and connectors.

Trionic monitors fuel quality after every filling station and automatically makes adjustments to run on any combination of E85 and / or gasoline. That means Saab BioPower drivers can use gasoline, should E85 not be available.

2.8V6 Turbo improved
For the new 9-3 Aero XWD models, the current 2.8-liter, 24-valve V6 Turbo engine is uprated to 280 hp (206 kW) and peak torque to 400 Nm. This has been achieved to by increasing available boost pressure from 0.5 to 0.8 bar. It gives the Sport Sedan accelerate from 0 to 100 km / h in 6.3 seconds and accelerate from 80 to 120 km / h (in fifth gear) in 7.9 seconds.

The advanced specification includes: a construction lightweight, all aluminum, variable cam timing, twin-scroll turbocharger and hydroformed exhaust manifolds with exclusive stainless steel liners and air injection for improved cold starting. With two-wheel drive, this engine now offers a maximum power increase of 5 hp (4 kW) to 255 hp (188 kW).

Other improvements included:

System Control Tire Pressure (TPMS): This system warns the driver if pressure in any tire drops below a recommended level. Sensors in the valves emit a radio signal and a warning message is illuminated on the main screen of the instrumentation. TPMS is optional on Aero models and comes as standard when wheels are 18 inches.

Bose audio system with Centerpoint surround sound: Available as an option on all variants Sport Sedan and SportCombi, offering exceptional production quality through five channels from CD, radio or XM digital MP3 players. Da surround sound quality even if the CD is not encoded for it. With 11 (sedan) or 10 (family) speakers, performance is optimized for the acoustics of the carrier.

The new 9-3 range comprises Sport Sedan models, SportCombi and Convertible, and each offers a choice of three types of motor fuel, gasoline, diesel or bioethanol (E85). The new Saab 9-3 range will be available in three finishes, Linear Sport, Vector and Aero, and went on sale from Autumn 2007.