Saab will join the growing ranks of brands offering turbodiesel passenger car models in Australia. The GM-owned company confirmed it would add a turbodiesel powered sedan and wagon to its 9-3 range yesterday. The first Saab TiD models will arrive in January.
The Swedish brand already offers the powerplant in markets across Europe. The direct-injected common-rail 1.9-litre engine used is a jointly GM-Fiat developed unit. It is already seen in both Fiat (Punto) and Holden (Astra) guises Down Under.
The Euro IV compliant DOHC four is rated at 110kW and 320Nm of torque. Saab claims comparable in-gear acceleration to its 154kW petrol-powered Vector model. UK stats have the TiD Saab's combined fuel economy at less than 6.0lt/100km.
Saab 9-3 TiD models will be available locally with six-speed automatic and manual transmissions, however, pricing and full specifications will not be published until closer to the cars' arrival.
Saab admits it is also considering offering its 9-3 Convertible with TiD power. Saab's top model, the Convertible recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary (see separate story).