AutoSpies.com video reveal of the 2008 Saab 9-3

The new Saab 9-3 range, expected at North American dealerships in early September, features bold, more assertive looks, reflecting enhancements that include the introduction of all-wheel-drive and more powerful gasoline engines.

The distinctive frontal styling, inspired by Saab's award-winning Aero X concept car, is designed to reinforce the range's sporty appeal. For the U.S. market, it heralds the introduction of an uprated 2.8L V-6 turbo gasoline engines that produces 280 horsepower (206 kW) when combined with Saab's new all-wheel-drive (XWD -- "cross-wheel-drive") system available in spring 2008.

The advanced Saab XWD system is exclusive to 9-3 Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi models. It features innovative developments in wheel slip management and, as an option, the use of an electronically-controlled rear limited-slip differential.

Peyton18 - 9/2/2007 6:35:06 PM

+1 Boost

Whoever that was explaining what they 'did' to the car was awful.

"We changed...this thing...and thats new too. And here the logo is lower...and...*pats metal* this is clean looking...look look."

Interesting design, terrible back end. Especially lights

EnvyofyouRS5 - 9/2/2007 7:08:35 PM

+1 Boost

"this is real driver focused, everything is directed towards the driver, with the center console, Which is as you can tell in the center". thats all that needs to be said...
Agent , you should get a mike on that vidcam?. maybe it was just too windy, as the pebble beach vid sound quality was good.
Cant wait to see this thing against the 335xi , and the S4, Better than a 911 c4s? Not on looks.

gryphon - 9/3/2007 10:30:12 AM

0 Boost

SAAB did a great job in making the new MY 2008 9-3 take on some of the design elements of the Aero X concept, especially in the front of the vehicle. In the interior, you can see the benefits of simple and elegant design. Nice. I'm eagerly awaiting the debut of the Turbo X at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

Agent001, thanks for posting the vid footage. Despite the poor quality, it was quite informative.

EnnNorak - 9/3/2007 10:42:42 AM

0 Boost

I'm really glad I watched this video as I am now able to eliminate the 2008 Saab 3 from my shopping list. The GM rep boasted that they have eliminated the side body moldings (that's a big mistake GM) virtually assuring that Saab 3 owners will now get ugly door dings in shopping centre parking lots where lo-lifes open the doors on their beaters without worrying about dinging the doors on the car beside them.

Saab also fell into a styling trap with respect to the tail lights by using clear plastic that looks white or chrome instead of red. The tail lights make the car look cheap instead of upscale.

S4cabriofoxone - 9/3/2007 12:46:57 PM

0 Boost

Wow, you are insane.

gryphon - 9/4/2007 1:42:59 PM

+1 Boost

EnnNorak -

I am a little concerned about the loss of the body moldings, too. However, it greatly simplifies the car's looks. I'll just have to park away from idiots (something I generally do, anyway).

As for the tail lights, I am a fan of the "ice block" design that SAAB went with on the new 9-3. However, it may not appeal to all.