SAAB 9-3 OFFERS INNOVATIVE, USEFUL DESIGN
NORCROSS, Ga. - Saab cars have been lauded for innovation in design and technology ever since the first Saab 92 was unveiled for the press in 1947. Designed by aircraft engineers not limited by conventional automotive thinking, the early Saab cars attracted much attention for their advanced aerodynamic exterior design, front wheel drive, strong monocoque body shell and other unconventional solutions aimed at improving occupant safety, roadholding and driver control. This legacy is held in trust by today's Saab engineers - and is evidenced in the 2000 Saab 9-3 models.
Cockpit Provides for Driver Comfort
The interior of the Saab 9-3 is designed with driver ergonomics as the main
focus. Since driver comfort and convenience are critical elements of safe
driving, Saab provides a number of comfort-enhancing standard features
like: a telescoping steering wheel, power 8-way adjustable front seats (SE
models), steering-wheel mounted audio controls, analog instrumentation and
the Saab Night Panel.
A direct influence of aircraft ergonomics, and to reduce the strain of nighttime driving, the Saab Night Panel displays information on a need-to-know basis, with a choice of illumination modes and variable brightness. An electronic monitoring system activates each instrument automatically as soon as the driver needs to be alerted (in the same way as in the latest aircraft) - such as if the engine speed is increasing towards the redline, if the fuel level is getting low, or if the engine temperature begins to rise.
The Saab 9-3 offers two different climate control systems designed to keep occupants comfortable. Entry level models are equipped with a manual heating, ventilation and air conditioning system while SE models are equipped with a computerized Automatic Climate Control (ACC) system.
The Saab 9-3 5-door and Coupe models continue to offer outstanding utility with trunk capacity of 21.7 cubic feet and cargo capacity, with the split fold-down rear seat folded, of a full 46 cubic feet. The split-folding rear seat has a pass-through opening behind the center armrest. Even the Saab 9-3 Convertible offers class-leading utility with its fold-down rear seat and full pass-through.
Saab 9-3 Convertible Top Design & Operation
The popular Saab 9-3 Convertible continues to offer generous room for four
occupants, as well as four-seasons comfort, sports car performance and a
comprehensive list of standard features for exceptional value. The power
operated soft top of the Saab 9-3 Convertible is operated by hydraulics and
is secured to the windshield header with a single, centrally located
handle. The top lining is a light gray fabric which, together with the
large rear window, helps make the interior brighter. A thick insulating
layer (6 mm) and carefully designed seals between the top and the
windshield header contribute to make the Saab 9-3 Convertible one of the
quietest convertibles around.
Sport Enhancements for SE Models
For 2000, the Saab 9-3 SE models benefit from performance upgrades that
include a horsepower increase and a sport-tuned suspension on 5-door
models. The Saab design team complements the 9-3 SE's greater performance
abilities with a front chin spoiler, flared rocker panels, a new rear
valance, body colored mirrors, polished chrome sport exhaust tip and a
sports steering wheel. In addition, the 9-3 SE Convertible integrates a
rear bridge spoiler.
New Wheels on Entry Level Models
Saab's entry level 9-3 models receive newly designed 15-inch light alloy
wheels - a five-spoke design is standard on all Coupes, while ten-spoke
wheels are featured on all 5-Door and Convertible models. SE models
continue to provide 5-spoke alloy wheels.
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