9-3 Value & Performance
NORCROSS, Ga. - Saab launches its 2002 model year with a celebration of the 25th anniversary of Saab turbocharging. The Saab 9-3 line-up commemorates this milestone with numerous exterior and interior enhancements.
For 2002, Saab has replaced its entry 9-3 models (three-door coupe and five-door sedan) with a value-priced 9-3 five-door SE model. The 9-3 Viggen line-up continues with three-door coupe, five-door, and convertible models.
2002 Saab 9-3 SE five-door
The 9-3 SE five-door challenges convention by providing the segment's only blend of progressive design with outstanding safety, performance and versatility. It delivers the capabilities of multiple vehicles in one smart value package.
All 2002 Saab 9-3 SE five-door models will feature Saab's 205-hp, high-output turbocharged 2.0-liter engine (2.0T), new 16-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, sunroof, power driver's seat, and wood-grained instrument panel. A front spoiler and aerodynamic side skirts give the SE a sporty style. To commemorate the 25th anniversary of Saab turbocharging, all 9-3 SE models also receive new embossed leather and textile seats (embossed with "turbo") and leather door panels.
Considered the outstanding European offer below $30,000 in the entry luxury segment, the Saab 9-3 SE five-door is lower in price compared to a similarly equipped last year's model.
A Premium Package will be available that includes a sport chassis, Automatic Climate Control (ACC), 160-watt prestige audio system, power passenger seat and driver's side memory seat, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and three-year/36,000-mile no-charge scheduled maintenance. Heated front seats and automatic transmission are also optional.
Saab, the convertible specialists
During calendar year 2000, one in every five Saabs sold in the U.S. was a convertible. For 2002, Saab has also increased the value of its popular 9-3 SE Convertible by providing upgrades similar to the five-door SE model: new 16-inch five-spoke alloy wheels and turbo embossed leather seats with leather door panels. ACC and power driver and passenger seats with driver's side memory are now also standard equipment.
Powerplant is the 205-hp 2.0T engine, matched with a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The power convertible top is operated by hydraulics and is secured to the windshield header with a single, centrally located handle. A thick insulated layer (6mm) and secure seats between the top and windshield header continue to make the Saab 9-3 Convertible one of the quietest convertibles available.
A new Sport Package featuring newly styled 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport steering wheel and a rear spoiler is optional. Heated front seats are also optional.
Viggen continues as top 9-3 performance model
The Saab 9-3 Viggen takes its name and inspiration from the Saab JA37 Viggen jet fighter, and remains the top performance car in the 9-3 line-up. The Viggen coupe, five-door and convertible are limited production vehicles developed jointly by Saab Automobile AB's Special Vehicle Operations team and Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR). The powertrain is a turbocharged 2.3T engine, rated at 230 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, matched exclusively with a five-speed manual transmission.
The 9-3 Viggen models feature aggressive aerodynamic body work, 17-inch wheels and high-performance 215/45 ZR-17 tires, a sport-tuned chassis, larger brakes and heavily bolstered sport seats. Standard equipment also includes participation in the Viggen Flight Academy performance driving school - a two-day intensive course taught at a race track by a team of racing professionals.
For 2002, a new beige leather interior is available for Viggen models, complemented by a new carbon-fiber dash treatment. The Rocky Black interior comes with a light gray mottled dash trim, metallic in appearance. Seats feature a unique textured leather inserts and subtle Viggen delta-wing embossments in the backrests.
Real-life safety is Saab 9-3 priority
The extensive standard safety features in all 2002 Saab 9-3 models include the Saab Active Head Restraint (SAHR) system, driver and passenger front airbags, dual-stage head and torso protecting side-impact airbags for the front seats, front seatbelt pretensioners, Traction Control System (TCS) and a collision-force-deflecting pendulum "B"-pillar side-impact protection system.
These features, together with the high-strength steel reinforced safety cage around the passenger compartment, and front and rear crumple zones, give the Saab 9-3 a very high level of crashworthiness.
All safety systems in the Saab 9-3 have been developed in line with Saab's Real-Life Safety concept - cars must be as safe as possible in the variety of accident situations that occur in the real world. Since 1972, Saab has investigated more than 6,000 accidents involving Saabs in Sweden. In addition to providing invaluable information regarding the real-life crash safety properties of Saab cars, this data also helps Saab engineers perform more realistic crash tests. The Saab 9-3 models have been subjected to more than 40 different types of crash tests, including car-to-car, car-to-truck and a unique simulated moose collision, which makes sure the A-pillars and roof structure can withstand impact with Sweden's abundant - but often hazardous - wildlife.
OnStar technology provides additional safety Saab's safety philosophy includes OnStar, and all 2002 models continue to feature the latest generation OnStar system. This package includes voice-activated, hands-free personal calling and access to personal e-mail, in addition to voice-activated internet connectivity for information like stock quotations, customized news, etc. Customers can configure vehicle settings from the Saab USA website. OnStar's continuing safety and security features like automatic airbag notification and route guidance enhance Saab's real-life safety philosophy. Twelve months of OnStar's premium service is included.
Saab No Charge Scheduled Maintenance Program now covers all models
Saab will also continue its no-charge scheduled maintenance program, which covers all Saab models for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first (part of Premium Package on 9-3 SE five-door). This program covers all the factory recommended scheduled maintenance (excluding wear and tear items).
Other changes to the 9-3 line include an expansion of the color palette to nine choices, with three new exterior colors: Polar White, Hazelnut, and the return of Cosmic Blue. The optional blue convertible top is now available with Polar White, Silver, Midnight Blue and Cosmic Blue exterior colors. Viggen models are only available in Black, Silver, Steel Gray and Laser Red.
Saab continues to offer excellent warranty protection on all 2002 models. Bumper-to-bumper protection with 24-hour roadside assistance is provided for four years/50,000 miles. Perforation coverage extends for six years with no mileage limit.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
