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The start point for the best source of fleet information |
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The recent revamp of the Saab 9-3 brought emissions for the diesel 1.9 saloon down to 119g/km CO2 and into the lowest BIK tax band, which certainly makes it a more appealing fleet proposition.
The 160hp version tested here also has decent accelerating power, although drivers wanting a bit more torque can pick the 180hp version - the most powerful car below 120g/km on the market - and not suffer any rise in emissions.
The 9-3 has good ride quality and a comfortable interior too, but on the downside, wind and engine noise in the cabin is apparent and the interior seems dated with cheapish plastics, although the controls and a touchscreen system are easy to use.
Overall, the Saab 9-3 has a long way to go to match its bigger sibling, the new 9-5. The latter is luxurious enough to, at a stretch, contend with premium models such as the BMW 5-series and Audi A6. But the same could not be said for the 9-3. What it needs is a makeover, both inside and out.
Thankfully, the Swedish carmaker has recognised this, and is launching a tweaked model that showcases new front bumpers, headlights and grille as well as a more luxury interior.
It has also simplified the trim level: the mid-range Vector Sport BusinessCar tested no longer exists. Instead there is the SE and Aero, with prices ranging from £22,495 to £30,790. Standard SE features include climate control, cruise control, rear parking sensors, leather seats and Bluetooth.
The latest update also brings the 9-3 estate version in line with the saloon's 119g/km CO2 emissions, although for both shapes this only applies to the basic SE?trim; the CO2 rises to 129g/km for the top-spec Aero trim.
Once BusinessCar has tested the latest 9-3, we'll let you know if the car can now compete as a good value rival to flyaway prestige brand successes in its field.
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VerdictSub-120g/km emissions add to fleet cache |
6/10 |
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BusinessCar magazine ©2019
Business Car Magazine © 2020 | Business Car is part of NS Media Group.
