What Is It?
2006 Saab 9-3 SportCombi
What's Special About It?
In light of the growing interest in midsize wagons, Saab decided to target its fair share of the segment with the all-new Saab 9-3 SportCombi wagon. While it's not unusual to have a staggered launch of versions within a model line, the SportCombi arrives several years behind the 9-3 sedan which went on sale in 2002, and the convertible which debuted in 2003.
The SportCombi gets two engine choices: a 210-horsepower turbo four-cylinder and a new 250-hp turbocharged aluminum 2.8-liter V6, which is offered only in the top Aero trim. Saab intends to offer the new V6 in the 9-3 Aero sedan and convertible models as well. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard with the V6, a six-speed automatic is optional. The four-cylinder gets a standard five-speed auto or the six-speed manual as an option. With very little loss of torsional rigidity, Saab claims that the SportCombi will deliver handling on par with the 9-3 sedan.
Styling is traditional Saab, with the aerodynamic beltline rising toward the SportCombi's thick hindquarters, finishing in frosted vertical rear taillights and an integrated rear roof spoiler. Inside, the rear hatch hides extra subfloor storage accessed by an airplane-shaped chrome handle which allows the deck floor to release and fold out of the way. A 60/40-split rear seat and ski pass-through add extra cargo versatility.
What's Edmunds' Take?
Poised between the handsome 9-5 wagon and the sporty 9-2X hatchback, the Saab 9-3 SportCombi (however odd its name) is a logical progression of the Swedish automaker's lineup. If pricing is competitive, it could give the new Audi A4 Avant a run for its money.
The 9-3 SportCombi goes on sale in September 2005. — Kelly Toepke
2006 Saab 9-3 SportCombi
What's Special About It?
In light of the growing interest in midsize wagons, Saab decided to target its fair share of the segment with the all-new Saab 9-3 SportCombi wagon. While it's not unusual to have a staggered launch of versions within a model line, the SportCombi arrives several years behind the 9-3 sedan which went on sale in 2002, and the convertible which debuted in 2003.
The SportCombi gets two engine choices: a 210-horsepower turbo four-cylinder and a new 250-hp turbocharged aluminum 2.8-liter V6, which is offered only in the top Aero trim. Saab intends to offer the new V6 in the 9-3 Aero sedan and convertible models as well. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard with the V6, a six-speed automatic is optional. The four-cylinder gets a standard five-speed auto or the six-speed manual as an option. With very little loss of torsional rigidity, Saab claims that the SportCombi will deliver handling on par with the 9-3 sedan.
Styling is traditional Saab, with the aerodynamic beltline rising toward the SportCombi's thick hindquarters, finishing in frosted vertical rear taillights and an integrated rear roof spoiler. Inside, the rear hatch hides extra subfloor storage accessed by an airplane-shaped chrome handle which allows the deck floor to release and fold out of the way. A 60/40-split rear seat and ski pass-through add extra cargo versatility.
What's Edmunds' Take?
Poised between the handsome 9-5 wagon and the sporty 9-2X hatchback, the Saab 9-3 SportCombi (however odd its name) is a logical progression of the Swedish automaker's lineup. If pricing is competitive, it could give the new Audi A4 Avant a run for its money.
The 9-3 SportCombi goes on sale in September 2005. — Kelly Toepke
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