Saab enhances 2000 models by adding even more standard features - with minimal price increases
Norcross, GA - Saab Cars USA, Inc. has announced an aggressive pricing structure for the company's 2000 models. With sales up 44 percent for calendar year 1999, Saab plans to continue its momentum by adding new models to its line-up and providing even more standard equipment on its cars while minimizing price increases.
"Saabs have long been known for their high level of standard equipment," says Sean McNamara, director of product planning. "With many of our competitors, you have to add a number of options to their cars to get a vehicle comparably equipped. Our 2000 line will continue that trend."
As an example, the 2000 Saab 9-3 Coupe model adds new 5-spoke alloy wheels, a choice of either standard CD or cassette player, child seat top tether anchors in the rear seat and an additional interior storage pocket for the same Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) as 1999ั$25,900. This price includes such standard equipment as a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, enhanced for 2000 with Saab's Trionic 7 engine management system which provides electronic throttle activation to eliminate turbo lag, front- and side-impact airbags for front seat passengers, the Saab Active Head Restraint (SAHR) System and ABS brakes.
The 9-3 SE 5-door and Convertible models also are enhanced for 2000 and will include Saab's 209 Ib.-ft. of torque (205-horsepower) high-output turbocharged 2.0-liter engine standard. Also included is a new exterior sport body kit, a sport steering wheel, a choice of either standard CD or cassette player and a rear spoiler (new for convertible models). The 9-3 SE 5-Door will provide all of these upgrades with a price increase of only $195 to $31,895 (MSRP). The convertible model's price remains unchanged at $42,995.
The new 9-3 Viggen models, which provide a 258 Ib.-ft. of torque (230-horsepower) high-output turbocharged 2.3-liter engine, sport-enhanced chassis, 17-inch wheels, front sport seats and more, is offered at an MSRP of $37,750 for the coupe and the, new-for-2000, 5-door model. This price is unchanged from the 1999 9-3 Viggen Coupe. The new 9-3 Viggen Convertible will be offered at an MSRP of $44,995.
With nearly all amenities standard, the only options available on Saab 9-3 models are: an automatic transmission, a sunroof, heated seats, leather upholstery, metallic paint and the OnStar telematics system (SE and Viggen models provide leather upholstery and sunroof standard).
Saab also increased the value of its 9-5 model line by making a sunroof and the Saab Traction Control System (TCS) standard on all entry-level 9-5 models for an MSRP of $32,575. This vehicle features a 207 Ib.-ft. of torque (170-horsepower) 2.3-liter light-pressure turbocharged engine, front- and side-impact air bags for front seat passengers, SAHR, 16-inch light alloy wheels and a CD and cassette player as standard equipment.
All 2000 9-5 SE models now provide Saab's 3.0-liter V6 229 Ib.-ft. of torque (200-horsepower) light- pressure turbocharged engine and an automatic dimming mirror as standard equipment at an MSRP of $37,750ัan increase of only $300 on the 9-5 Sedan and $850 on the 9-5 Wagon. These models also feature a standard 4-speed automatic transmission, leather upholstery, a 3-position memory driver's seat and a Harman/Kardon 240-watt premium audio system.
The all-new Saab 9-5 Aero features a 258 Ib.-ft. of torque (230-horsepower) high-output turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch light alloy wheels, an Aero-specific styling package and more. This high-performance, sports luxury sedan is offered at an MSRP of $39,775.
For 2000, Saab takes its first step in an aggressive strategy to introduce telematics services into Saab vehicles by offering OnStar as an option on all Saab models. Telematics is the gateway for a virtually unlimited array of wireless infotainment services in the vehicle and OnStar is Saab's first step in taking a leadership role in advancing this technology. Additionally, OnStar supports Saab's "real-life" safety philosophy by providing extensive security and emergency features. Saab is the first European brand to offer this type of system across its entire model line. OnStar's MSRP in Saab vehicles is $895, which includes three months of the Premium Service Plan.
For all 2000 models, Saab offers excellent warranty protection that includes 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage with 24-hour roadside assistance. Perforation coverage extends for six years with no mileage limit. Saab will continue to perform the first maintenance service free of charge.
All 2000 Saab models will begin arriving at dealerships in early October, 1999.
NATIONAL SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICES FOR 2000 MODEL CARS & OPTIONS
Series Body SRP
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9-3 Three-Door Hatchback $25,900
9-3 Five-Door Hatchback $26,400
9-3 SE (2.0L High Output Turbo) Five-Door Hatchback $31,895
9-3 Two-Door Convertible $39,450
9-3 SE (2.0L High Output Turbo) Two-Door Convertible $42,995
9-3 Viggen Three-Door Hatchback $37,750
9-3 Viggen Five-Door Hatchback $37,750
9-3 Viggen Two-Door Convertible $44,995
9-5 (2.3L Turbo) Four-Door Sedan $32,575
9-5 SE (3.0L Turbo V6/Auto.) Four-Door Sedan $37,750
9-5 Aero (2.3L High Output Turbo) Four-Door Sedan $39,775
9-5 Wagon (2.3L Turbo) Five-Door Wagon $32,575
9-5 SE Wagon (3.0L Turbo V6/Auto.) Five-Door Wagon $37,750
Options 9-3 9-3 SE 9-3 Viggen 9-5 9-5 SE 9-5 Aero
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Automatic Transmission $1,200 $1,200 $1,200 Std. (SE)
(N/A on Viggen) $1,200 (Aero)
Power Glass Sunroof $1,150 Std. Std. Std.
CD Player, in-dash Std Std. Std. Std.
Front Only Heated Seats $370 $370 N/A N/A
(N/A 5-dr.)
Front & Rear Heated Seats N/A $520 $520 $520
(SE 5-dr. only)
Leather Package $1,350 Std. (part of prem. pkg) Std
Ventilated Seats N/A N/A $950 $950
(Req. premium pkg.)
Premium Package (incl. Ieather N/A N/A $1,995 N/A
upholstery, memory driver's seat,
Harman/Kardon audio)
OnStar Telematics System $895 $895 $895 $895
Metallic Paint $350 $350 $350 $350
9-5 Aero 17" 2-Piece Wheel N/A N/A N/A $1,650
(9-5 Aero only)
9-5 17" Wheel/Tire Pkg. $1,950 $1,950 (SE Only)
Special Charges
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Destination Charge All $575
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