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Saab 9-3: low-tax Swedish saloon

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Saab 9-3 1.9 TTiD Vector Sport MY11 business car road test report

Saab 9-3 1.9 TTiD Vector Sport MY11

Saab 9-3 1.9 TTiD Vector Sport MY11

What is it?

THE Saab 9-3 received some useful revamps for the MY11 range, including the 1.9 twin turbo diesel delivering just 119g/km CO2 for the lowest diesel company car tax band of 13%. Although the Saab 9-3 has been updated again for MY12, there are still some of these MY11 models which should provide a good blend of low leasing price and low company car tax. Available in three power outputs – 130, 160 and 180PS – the model tested here is the 160PS model.

What’s hot?

  • Twin turbo gives plenty of acceleration
  • With plenty of good in-gear Saab turbo punch thanks to 400Nm torque
  • CO2 of 119g/km mean 13% company car tax for 2011/12 tax year
  • Astonishing fuel economy: over 60mpg average
  • Comfortable seats – as you would expect from a Saab
  • And a quiet and comfortable motorway experience too
  • Plus there’s plenty of interior space for all passengers
  • Standard spec includes Bluetooth mobile phone prep…
  • …plus heated front seats, leather/textile seat trim, alloys

What’s not?

  • Plasticky trim is not in line with premium Saab image
  • And a long way from what Audi and BMW drivers experience
  • Engine is noisy at start up and under acceleration
  • Feels in need of the MY12 update

What you need to Know?

P11D Value: 25,983
Monthly Rental*: 289 (CH)/£347 (PCH)
Tax Band when posted: 13%, 17%, 18%
Monthly BiK: Click link for BIK
Engine: 1.9-litre twin turbo diesel
CO2 Emissions: 119g/km
Power/torque: 160PS/400Nm
Economy: 62.8mpg

Monthly contract hire (CH) and personal contract hire (PCH) rentals generated by Concept Vehicle Leasing. Based on a 36 month lease at 10,000 miles a year, 3+35 payments.

Business Car Manager Road Test Rating

There are plenty of reasons to consider the Saab 9-3 as a business car – not least its company car tax rating and brilliant fuel economy. If you can find one of the MY11 models – they are still around – make sure you get a good deal. And worth considering if you can find a good deal on the latest Saab 9-3 MY12 range. But otherwise the Saab feels its age; other business cars offer a more premium experience.

Editor’s note: You can read more about the new Saab 9-3 MY12 update in our news story: Updated looks and revised model range for Saab 9-3.

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