Segment:
Premium compact executive car (D-segment)
Usp:
Focus on Scandinavian design, driver-centric ergonomics, safety innovations, and turbocharged performance.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Volvo S60, Acura TSX, Lexus IS
Saab Dna:
Night Panel function, ignition on the center console tunnel, focus on driver engagement.
Saab Safety:
Strong emphasis on passive and active safety systems, structural integrity.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission operation
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Lighting, instruments and controls, audio system, climate control, power accessories, battery, fuses
Safety Features:
Airbags, seat belts, Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR), ABS, Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement
Driving Operations:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, parking brake operation, cruise control usage
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control operation, audio system operation, power windows and locks, seat adjustments, mirror adjustments, lighting controls
Troubleshooting Emergencies:
Warning lights and indicators, flat tire changing, jump starting, basic troubleshooting for common issues
Depth:
Consumer-level understanding of vehicle operation and basic maintenance. Not a repair manual, but provides foundational knowledge.
Digital Format Availability:
Often available as PDF from Saab archives or enthusiast sites.
Print Quality:
Typically good quality commercial printing for OEM manuals.
Binding:
Stapled or perfect bound paperback.
Paper Type:
Glossy or semi-gloss paper.
Engine Code:
B205 (2.0t), B235 (2.3t, Aero)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged, DOHC, 16 valves
Displacement:
1985cc (2.0t), 2290cc (2.3t, Aero)
Horsepower:
175 hp @ 5500 rpm (2.0t), 210 hp @ 5500 rpm (2.3t), 250 hp @ 5500 rpm (Aero)
Torque:
201 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (2.0t), 229 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (2.3t), 258 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (Aero)
Induction:
Turbocharged, Intercooled
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Body Styles:
Sport Sedan (4-door), Sport Combi (5-door wagon)
Length:
Approx. 4633 mm (182.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1792 mm (70.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in) (Sedan)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 419 liters (14.8 cu ft) (Sedan), Approx. 483 liters (17.0 cu ft) to window line (Combi)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on engine and configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated in owner's manual, but typically around 2000-2100 kg
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger) for the 2006 model year.
IIHS Front Impact:
Good ('Good' rating for frontal offset crash test)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System standard.
TCS:
Traction Control System standard.
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) standard.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional rear side-impact airbags.
Saab Active Head Restraints:
Standard SAHR system in front seats to reduce whiplash injuries.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Saab Audio System with CD player, optional navigation, steering wheel controls.
Display Type:
Central dashboard display for climate, audio, and vehicle information. Optional color screen for navigation.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control functionality.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40, meeting GM dexos1 Gen 2 or ACEA A3/B4 standards (refer to manual for exact spec).
Coolant Spec:
G-48 or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate inhibitors (typically purple or blue).
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Dexron VI or equivalent for automatic transmission.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent.
Common Problem 1:
Direct Ignition Cassette (DIC) failure - a common Saab characteristic, leading to misfires.
Common Problem 2:
Oil sludge buildup in engines, especially if oil changes are neglected.
Common Problem 3:
Air conditioning system leaks or compressor issues.
Common Problem 4:
PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system issues, potentially leading to oil leaks.
Origin:
Founded in Sweden, originally known for aircraft manufacturing.
Brand Philosophy:
Focus on safety, innovation, and distinctive design, often with a quirky Scandinavian charm.
Previous Generation:
Second generation Saab 900 (NG900) which was facelifted into the 9-3 in 1998.
Current Generation:
The 2003-2012 generation, based on the GM Epsilon platform.
Manufacturing Plant:
Trollhättan, Sweden.
Production Years:
This generation: 2002-2012 (though North American sales started for the 2003 model year).
