Saab dealers should be hoping too as it's up against some truly competent competition. Even Honda and Nissan offer 240-hp 6-cylinder power in their 'bread-and-butter' sedans but direct competitors such as the Volvo S60, while also a little anemic in base form rises to 247-hp in top-trim and a new 300-hp S60R is on the way. Japanese competitors from Acura and Infiniti both produce 260-hp in top and base form respectively. Even Chrysler's now somewhat dated 300M puts out up to 255-hp, larger for sure but still very price competitive. Like I said, I'm sure that the Saab engineers have something special up their collective sleeves.
Griping aside there's more to these trim packages than just straight-line performance. Standard features include the usual power features, including windows, mirrors and remote keyless entry activated central power locks, etc. Where the 9-3 differs is in execution. The dual zone climate control system includes automatic balance control, a technology that uses outside sensors to pick up changes in sunlight and shade and then automatically makes adjustments to interior temperatures and airflow levels to maintain a the desired 'climate'. The same climate control system accepts preset user preferences controlled by a system that also can set preferences for the alarm system, parking assistance and rain sensitive wipers. The new Saab also makes use of fiber optic circuitry, increasing data speed for the infotainment systems that now have integrated Bluetooth wireless capabilities, enabling short-range communication between PDAs, laptop computers and mobile phones. A new wireless headset allows hands free phone usage too, complimented by a state-of-the-art voice activation system.
While it seems like automotive technology is complicating the simple act of getting from point A to B, time spent in the driveway brushing up on the owner's manual on a Saturday morning can transform previously convoluted processes into easy procedures. Still, if you're like me you'd rather spend Saturday morning out on an adrenaline inducing drive. There's nothing better to get the heart pumping and the new 9-3 should be quite up to the task.