For those who enjoy biking, Saab has equipped the Sports-Hatch with an integrated, roof-mounted bicycle carrying system. Two sets of mounting brackets, one under the rear glass, hold the rear wheel of a bicycle. Another set of brackets, mounted atop the tailgate in front of the rear spoiler, attach to the bike's front fork. The swiveling hinge design of the roof-mounted bracket allows the tailgate to be opened with the bikes mounted, plus it's far classier than having a trunk-mounted system.
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| With the popularity of mountain biking continuing to rise, Saab decided to design a unique integrated roof mounted bicycle carrying system. (Photo: General Motors) |
Similar to the transformation that the car's exterior received, the 9-3 Sport-Hatch's interior displays familiar shapes, enhanced by futuristic concept car inspired themes. The solid, one-piece dashboard has been lifted directly from the 9-3 production sedan, but all details have been radically updated. As opposed to using buttons and switches, touch-sensitive LCD displays replace audio, navigation and HVAC controls. Switches for these menus are either right on the console, or actuated via a thumb-operated joystick atop the shifter. Trim is similar to the current 9-3, but rather than using wood or carbon fiber, Saab has employed a material that's similar to tinted glass in appearance, yet solid like a composite. The Sports-Hatch also features a plug-and-play system that allows occupants to interact with the car with ports for laptops, PDAs, and Mp3 players. What's more wireless internet can additionally access online navigation.
A twist of the key and push of the red starter button cranks the enhanced engine to life. Sticking with what they know best, Saab has opted to modify their workhorse engine - a 2.0 liter inline four engine. Designated HOT (High Output Turbo) the blown engine's 250 horsepower rating eclipses all Saab powerplants bar the top-spec turbocharged Aero 9-5. With such a strong, advanced four-cylinder on board, there's no need for a six, or eight cylinder engine, emphasizing economy and environmental cleanliness.