1999-2002 Saab 9-3: Year-to-Year Changes
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1999-2002 Saab 9-3. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1999-2002 Saab 9-3.
Year to Year Changes
2000 Saab 9-3:
Because General Motors owned Saab's car-making division, GM's OnStar satellite-based assistance system became available in 9-3 models. Four-door hatchback and convertible versions of the high-performance Viggen joined the 2-door hatchback body style. SE editions now had the previously optional 2.0 High Output Engine, which got a boost from 200 to 205 horsepower. The Viggen engine also gained 5 hp. All SE models got new lower-body skirts, the 4-door added a special sport suspension, and a standard rear spoiler went on the convertible.
2001 Saab 9-3:
Traction control and GM's OnStar system became standard this year. The lineup included base 2- and 4-door hatchbacks, uplevel SE 4-door and convertible, and the high-performance Viggen in three body styles. The base-model convertible was dropped. "Generation 2.6" OnStar added a voice-activated Internet connection to access web-based information, as well as voice-operated phone and e-mail functions. Traction control was designed to apply brakes and retard the throttle to restore traction when a front wheel began to slip.
2002 Saab 9-3:
The 185-hp base-level models were gone from Saab's "junior" line for 2002. 9-3 was redesigned for '03.
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