Saab’s trademark cockpit-inspired driving environment is enhanced in the new 2007 model year 9-3 range which also introduces a new ‘Linear Sport’ model.

The front fascia, instrument displays and controls in the 9-3 Sport Sedan, SportCombi and iconic Convertible have been given a cleaner, sharper look with improved driver interaction and communication.

The main instrument panel includes new infotainment systems and rotary controls in keeping with the new 9-5 interior theme. All driver information is now presented in the main instrument cluster, eliminating the need for the previous high level supplementary display.

The useful ‘Profiler’ function which is used to set driver preferences for a wide range of functions is now operated via steering wheel buttons.

The close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission currently found in the 9-3 Aero range has also been extended across the 9-3 range. Only the recently repositioned entry-level $39,900 Linear Sport Sedan retains the five-speed manual.

Saab Australia is also introducing a new Linear Sport model to the 9-3 Sport Sedan range, replacing the previous Arc specification.

Linear Sport, as the name suggests, increases the sporty appeal of the model, retaining the 129 kW and 265 Nm engine and luxury appointments such as heated leather seats and gaining the six-speed manual transmission and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The 9-3 Arc Sport Sedan was previously priced from $47,900 (RRP) for manual and $50,000 (RRP) for automatic. The 9-3 Linear Sport is now even more competitively priced from $45,900 (RRP) for manual and $48,400 (RRP) for automatic.

Model Year 2007 summary:

• New 9-3 TiD (diesel) due in January 2007, pricing to be announced closer to launch
• Previous Arc specification replaced by Linear Sport model
• Automatic transmission is $2,500 on all models, except where automatic is standard
• Exterior changes include introduction of new ‘Titan Grey’ dark grey metallic paint finish and the extension of Anniversary ‘Electric Blue’ across the Convertible range