1999-2002 Saab 9-3: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Saab's updated compact, near-luxury 900 series was offered with a new name for 1999. The new front-drive 9-3 series came as a 4-door hatchback or a convertible in base and plusher SE trim, accompanied by a base 2-door hatchback. All models used turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, with a five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. With manual shift, SE models had a 200-horsepower engine, while others were rated 185 hp. Manual-transmission models had a numerically higher axle ratio for stronger standing-start acceleration. Standard safety features included antilock braking, front side airbags, and Saab's front Active Head Restraints--claimed to minimize whiplash injury. convertibles had a power top with glass rear window and defroster. During the initial model year, a high-performance Viggen 2-door hatchback joined the lineup, with a 225-hp, 2.3-liter turbocharged engine (manual shift only).