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 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 2001 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 and premium package-equipped convertibles), 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 and premium package-equipped convertibles include 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.
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.
Saab Car Computer standard on all models
All 9-3 models now offer the full-option Saab Car Computer. In addition to outdoor temperature and date, distance to empty reading, average fuel consumption, and average speed, the enhanced computer system includes functions for the following: distance to destination, estimated time of arrival, alarm, and speed warning.
Two new exciting colors added to the Saab palette
Laser red and Steel grey are the two new bodywork colors. Laser red is a bright, sporty color that replaces Imola Red. Steel Gray is a medium silver metallic that exudes a high-tech, industrial personality.
New wheels on entry-level 5-door models
All Saab's entry level 9-3 models will feature 15-inch 5-spoke light alloy wheels. SE models will include 16-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels as well as the added traction of 205/50 all-season tires.
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