Saab's new hatch concept tested
10-13-2003, 08:35 AM
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Saab's new hatch concept tested
Saab 9-3 Sport-Hatch
Bt Matt Davis
There's an atmosphere of real excitement and expectation as Saab's engineers and designers gather at our photo location for the arrival of the 9-3 Sport-Hatch.
Although the innovative estate was only unveiled weeks ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and is shortly heading to Japan for the Tokyo exhibition this month, Auto Express has been invited to drive the newcomer. No one will admit it, but damaging this prototype now would be a catastrophe...
The Sport-Hatch is crucial, say the officials, because it is the first and last of its type. It's the first compact executive estate the Swedish firm has ever built, and it's all been done in-house. And, following the introduction of the saloon and cabriolet, it's the final evolution of the current 9-3 range.
Aimed at challenging the likes of the Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3-Series Touring and forthcoming Volvo V50, the 9-3 Sport-Hatch is set to go on sale by mid-2005, and is expected to look virtually identical to the well proportioned machine you can see here.
Inside, the vehicle is every inch the fanciful concept, complete with a four-seat layout, LCD instruments and hi-tech Internet connections. The prod-uction version will feature a more conventional cabin, although Saab tells us that much of the "architecture" will remain. The car will also offer an impressive 1,350 litres of boot space.
Powered by a tuned 250bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, the Sport-Hatch gives impressive performance. A five-speed Sentronic +2 gearbox provides automatic and manual options, although we left it in auto mode. Driving the prototype feels very similar to our first experience of the four-door 9-3. There's a fantastic view of the road ahead, and the Recaro seats front and rear are extremely comfortable.
The concept does hold a few surprises, though. With 20-inch wheels, it has the turning circle of an ocean liner, while there are all manner of squeaks and rattles from the hand-built interior.
However, this prototype (which took only nine weeks to build) has not been put together to impress us with its road manners. It's here to introduce us to the idea of an all-new Saab, one which the manufacturer hopes will significantly increase sales across the board and evolve the brand's family look.
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10-13-2003, 02:54 PM
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GEEZER
I would buy that.
10-13-2003, 03:39 PM
#11
The sizzle in the Steak
Exterior is not amazing, but it is ok. The interior on the other hand is real nice....love that wheel!!!
10-13-2003, 08:31 PM
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Originally posted by chris3240929
Gavriil,
Any new words on the new 9-2 joint-Subara venture???
Gavriil,
Any new words on the new 9-2 joint-Subara venture???
10-14-2003, 02:57 PM
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Autoexpress reports:
"Staff spent an hour hunting in the bushes at Saab HQ when the precious 9-3 Sport-Hatch shed a unique alloy wheel centre cap during a demonstration drive.
The part was found, but it wasn't the first thing to go missing from a Saab concept. Hours after the company unveiled its 9-X, it was discovered all the valve caps had been stolen by an opportunist thief. "
"Staff spent an hour hunting in the bushes at Saab HQ when the precious 9-3 Sport-Hatch shed a unique alloy wheel centre cap during a demonstration drive.
The part was found, but it wasn't the first thing to go missing from a Saab concept. Hours after the company unveiled its 9-X, it was discovered all the valve caps had been stolen by an opportunist thief. "
10-15-2003, 05:38 AM
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Can't stand the steering wheel or those silver dials on the center console control area. Exterior is unique and pretty sexy.
I like to look at Saabs, but being ignorant about them I'd be afraid to own one. Also they need higher performance from their cars. The new 9-3, especially the vert, is pretty sexy. It just needs a 300-350hp version with RWD or AWD to really turn me on.
I like to look at Saabs, but being ignorant about them I'd be afraid to own one. Also they need higher performance from their cars. The new 9-3, especially the vert, is pretty sexy. It just needs a 300-350hp version with RWD or AWD to really turn me on.
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