2003 Saab 9-3 Sports-Hatch Concept

Following the A-Pillars, the Sports-Hatch takes on a different form, but Saab is eager to let the public know that 80% of the concept is directly related to the 9-3. Though the structure may be related, in style, the Sports-Hatch speaks on a completely different level, straying from both the curved 'lifestyle' wagon, and the traditional box-shaped design. To emphasize the sporting image of the concept car, a great deal of work has been done to lower the "focal center of gravity" that many identify in a wagon. Tapered side windows with curves described as "hockey sticks" by Czornyj, help to accentuate the sloping roofline towards the rear of the car.

Although directly related to the current 9-3, the Sports-Hatch strays from both the curved 'lifestyle' wagon, and the traditional box-shaped design. (Photo: General Motors)

Meanwhile the rear glass is slanted to the front of the car to show a progressive movement forwards. Fresh and free from visual clutter, the tailgate area is easy on the eyes. Wraparound taillights stretch from bumper to rooftop, and the flow of the tailgate glass is punctuated only by a thin strip of aluminum. The hatch is power-operated, raising and lowering at the touch of a button.

Though the changes from production sedan to Sports-Hatch are quite simple, tasteful and elegant, Saab has mixed several concept car traits into the design that prove to be both provocative and practical. Sandwiched between the two side-railings, spanning the entire length of the car's roof is... glass! Tinted green, it adds a soft and modern touch to the atmosphere of the cockpit. This popular technique, pushed by Volvo's VCC concept cars, Renault's convertibles and minivans and Mercedes-Benz's SL Cabrio, adds as sense of space and volume, without actually increasing size.