But Saab, under new owners Spyker Cars, isn’t ignoring its compact range. Realising that - in Europe at least - both fleet and private customers are demanding ever more economical small diesels, it has improved the 9-3 accordingly for the 2011 model year.
There’s now a choice of three diesel engines, available with a power output of 128 bhp (95 kW / 130 PS), 157 bhp (117 kW / 160 PS) or 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS). And they have a lot in common with each other: all have a capacity of 1.9 litres, all now feature twin turbochargers and all produce exactly the same amount of CO2 and will go the same distance on a gallon of fuel.
In the saloon, that means 62.8 mpg on the combined cycle (4.4 l/100km) and just 119 g/km of carbon dioxide. The figures for the SportWagon estate and convertible versions are slightly worse at 61.4 mpg (4.6 l/100 km) / 122 g/km and 54.3 mpg (5.2 l/100km) / 137 g/km respectively, but they’re still impressive.
As well as a recalibrated engine management system and improved fuel injection, the efficiency improvements are the result of tweaks right across the car. These include optimised gearing, fitment of low rolling resistance tyres, an intelligent alternator that recognises when battery charging isn’t required, improved aerodynamics and reduced weight. Some of those measures will also appear on the petrol 9-3 line up, benefiting fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The 2011 9-3 gets additional specification, too. All models now come with Bluetooth connectivity and heated front seats as standard and, to make sure the best economy figures are achieved, there’s also a gearshift change up indicator.
Saab itself admits that the personality of the 9-3 was watered down under GM ownership, and it’s promising the next generation will redress that. But meanwhile, with revamped engines and extra equipment, it still measures up as a worthwhile choice for individualists who don’t want one of the more predictable premium compact alternatives.
