Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan Aero V6

[NarendZORCE]

The Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan Aero with its new 2.8L V6 Turbo engine is, quite simply, the fastest accelerating car ever to carry the Saab badge. It represents the culmination of almost 30 years' experience from Saab as acknowledged leaders in the art of turbocharging.

For the first time, Saab customers will be able to enjoy the combined benefits of turbocharged power and six cylinder refinement in a purpose-built package. With massive pulling power spread widely across the engine's speed range, the 2.8L V6 Turbo generates more torque than any other six cylinder gasoline engine in the Saab 9-3 segment.

Saab Automobile Powertrain's expert knowledge and experience of turbocharging is recognized by its role as a Center of Expertise within General Motors for the development of turbocharged gasoline engines. The Swedish engineers were therefore closely involved during the conceptual design and development of GM's new global V6 engine architecture, ensuring it included the possibility of a turbocharged application.

The 2.8L V6 Turbo debuts in the all-new Saab 9-3 SportCombi, Sedan and Convertible. It is the most sophisticated turbocharged engine ever offered in a Saab vehicle, delivering excellent responsiveness through low-speed torque and high-rpm power as well as exceptional refinement.

Technology such as a dual-scroll turbocharger and variable intake valve timing helps the 2.8L V6 Turbo achieve 250 bhp (184 kw) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque in the 9-3.

Developed in conjunction with other engines in the global V6 family, turbocharging was designed into the architecture's structural parameters. The powertrain engineers' experience with turbocharging at Saab was integral in refining the engines' performance, with the 2.8L V6 Turbo delivering maximum torque by 2000 rpm and maintaining it through 4500 rpm. Ninety percent of peak torque is available from just 1500 rpm.

The zero to 100 km/h dash is accomplished in just 6.9 seconds, but in-gear acceleration provides even more impressive evidence of this engine's outstanding elasticity. In top gear, the transition from 80 to 120 km/h can be accomplished in just 8.3 seconds, a figure that places the 9-3 Aero among the very best in its class.

The fun-to-drive nature of this performance is also matched by an exhilarating engine note that can be heard inside and outside the car. This has been achieved by tuning the twin sports exhausts downstream of the main catalyst. It gives the new Saab 9-3 Aero a distinctive aural character in keeping with its position as the sporting flagship of the range.

The engine is offered with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The close-ratio manual gearbox includes duel output shafts to reduce transmission vibration, together with a dual mass flywheel this ensures smooth and refined performance.

The 'smart' Asin AW automatic transmission is adaptive to driver usage patterns and prevailing road conditions. It can sense changes in engine performance, engine load, road gradient and altitude, quickly finding the right gear without an irritating 'hunting'.

For closer driver involvement, Saab Sentronic, a sequential manual gearshift, is also included. When the shift lever is moved across the gate to 'manual' Sentronic mode, 'up' and 'down' changes can be made with full lock-up in 3/4/5 or 6th gears. This process is taken a step further by the option of steering wheel buttons, which bring gear-shifting right to the fingertips of the driver.

Overall, the 2.8 V6 Turbo generates class-leading levels of torque with a seamless, turbine-like power delivery. It combines the inherent advantages of a six-cylinder engine - refinement and a rapid throttle response - with the effortless, torque-boosting properties of turbocharging.

[Plex]

another good Euro, these are good cars, yet we await to see if there is any coming to T&T shores..