Scots get facelifted Saab  15 | 03 | 2011

SAAB'S SCOTTISH dealer network will receive facelifted 9-3 models next month with the entry price confirmed as £21,495. The revised range features two new petrol engines, higher standard equipment levels and improved CO2 figures, according to the firm.

Both 2.0-litre petrol powerplants – a turbocharged 163bhp and 220bhp version – are mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic ‘box. The car is well specced, with alloy wheels, heated seats, park assist, Bluetooth, electric folding mirrors and rain sensor wipers all fitted as standard.

There's two trim levels — SE and Aero — plus three body styles, saloon, sport wagon or convertible. The 'entry-level' SE model comes complete with comfort leather and titanium-effect trim around the instrument panel, gearshift, doors and glovebox. The Aero adds leather sports seats and graphite-fibre touches.

Spend £21,495 and you get the entry-level manual 2.0-litre SE saloon which emits 155g/km of CO2; stretch to £30,760 for the 2.0 T XWD automatic saloon, and CO2 emissions rise to 206g/km.

The car Saab brands "most powerful sub 120g/km saloon and estate on sale in the UK", the £23,495 1.9 TTiD, produces 180bhp with 119g/km emissions. However if you prefer petrol, you can still get the "most powerful sub 160g/km petrol Saloon and Estate on sale in the UK", by opting for the £27,245 2.0-litre petrol version. It produces 220bhp and 155g/km.

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Jim McGill