In the US a variety of option packages allow buyers to customize a 9-3 to meet their comfort and geographical needs. The Cold Weather Package ensures comfort and good visibility by adding headlamp washers and heated front seats. A Driver's Package adds a wood/leather steering wheel, wood shift surround, rain sensing wipers, rear park assist, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, remote window and top operation, auto dimming mirror with compass and garage door opener. A Touring Package slightly varies the Driver's Package and includes remote opening for the top and windows, rain sensing windshield wipers, rear park assist, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with digital compass and integrated garage door opener, and an in-dash CD changer. The Sport Wheel Package issues the 9-3 with 17-inch double 3-spoke alloy wheels on all-season tires, plus tire pressure monitoring.
With the 9-3 Cabriolet safely back on the dealer's lot and the police detectives working on real crime, I look back with fond memories of my time with the Austrian built Saab 9-3 convertible - a car with true European heritage and performance. Undoubtedly the 9-3 will go a long way toward shaking-off Saab's bad-rep for quirkiness - a rep that their current products hardly deserve.
Specifications:
- Base Price (MSRP): $56,500 - $63,420
- Body Type: 2-door convertible
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Opt Engine: 210 hp, 221 lb-ft of torque, 2.0-L, 16-valve, DOHC, turbocharged I-4
- Transmission: 6-spd manual (opt 5-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD, BA
- Curb Weight: 1,580 kg (3,483 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 4
- Cargo Volume (trunk): 328 L (11.6 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): N/A
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
- Competitors: Audi A4 Cabriolet, BMW 3-Series Convertible, Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible, Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet, MINI Cooper Convertible, Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, Toyota Solara Convertible, VW New Beetle Convertible, Volvo C70 Convertible
- Web Site: www.gmcanada.com
Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.
