Saab 9-3 Turbo Anniversary

For Saab, that means 25 years since it became the first manufacturer to develop turbocharging for mainstream passenger cars and installed a blower under the bonnet of the 99 in 1977.

So for its 2002 9-3 model update, enter the Turbo Anniversary series.

Most car-makers usually produce anniversary/celebratory editions of cars in limited numbers to help boost sales and in one sense Saab is no different. Although the Anniversary lineup actually replaces the entry-level S-model three-door (Coupe in Saab-speak), five-door and convertible, its time in the Australian market will be limited to less than 12 months prior to the arrival of the all-new model next year.

Like other anniversary editions, its aim is to freshen up the existing product and for the somewhat aging 9-3 this means highlighting one of Saab's strengths and more importantly for buyers, adding extra kit to increase the luxury feel and differentiate the visuals.

From the outside, the most noticeable changes are the application of a subtle body kit of front and rear spoilers and side skirts in body colour and new 16-inch five-spoke alloy wheels in a design that, according to the press blurb, is “inspired by the turbocharger turbine wheel”.

Inside, the biggest changes to the already well-equipped interior are the fitting of standard leather upholstery with “turbo” embossed in the seats and a woodgrain finish on the dash.

The only mechanical change for the new model year is a minor modification to the final drive for the five-speed manual gearbox.

As the name says, this new entry-level lineup celebrates Saab's turbo development and the engine on offer in these cars provides a good reason to celebrate. While Saab has produced some rapid high-pressure turbo engines, its most impressive developments over the past five years have been in the area of light pressure turbos. In the Anniversary range, this is a 2.0-litre four that produces 110 kilowatts and 240 Newton metres of torque.

It is this last figure that is most important as it falls between a low 1800 and 3500rpm which, on the road, translates into powerful mid-range acceleration for overtaking or getting out of a sticky situation. Mated to a four-speed auto, the power delivery is smooth and responsive, especially in Sport mode, where the transmission is quick to kick down when requested.

Despite its turbo moniker, Saab has always been keen to promote its low blower as a means of improving performance while still providing low emissions and decent fuel economy. A sports car this ain't, but neither is it intended to be.

Although the handling is reasonable, where the car shines is in proffering a comfortable, quiet and refined ride in stylish, pleasant surroundings. The addition of full leather adds to the ambience and everything about the interior spells quality from the easy to use climate control to the aural appeal of the CD sound system.

Saab's Turbo Anniversary series may not offer a great deal that is new, but it does refocus the mind on what the car-maker does well. Despite its age and imminent replacement, with the extra equipment, the entry 9-3 is still a good value for money proposition in the prestige stakes.