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When Saab introduced its Aero X concept last year, officials from the Swedish automaker told the media that many styling cues from the rakishly stunning coupe would be reflected in future Saab models. Apparently the future has arrived—the all-new 2008 9-3 will feature distinctive front styling clearly influenced by the Aero X. Other new design elements include smoked white rear taillight lenses, sportier styling and the return of the clamshell-type hood (which means the hinges are at the front edge of the hood so it opens from the rear). In fact, 70 percent of the 9-3 sedan’s external body panels are new. To match the sporty styling, Saab will introduce a 280-horsepower turbocharged V6 for the 9-3 sedan and SportCombi wagon. Also available for the first time is an all-wheel-drive system that Saab calls XWD (cross-wheel drive). The system will be offered on models equipped with the new turbocharged V6, and is designed to enhance a vehicle’s performance in all weather conditions by utilizing an active rear limited-slip differential that can provide variable torque transfer between the rear wheels.
