Saab Launches Anniversary 9-3 Convertible

With 25 years since the automotive industry saw the first Convertible wearing Saab's signature, the Swedish brand rolls out an anniversary edition of the 9-3 model due to release at the Los Angeles Auto Show. This is the second special version of 9-3 rolled out this year, with the initial Yellow edition launched during summer.

This new Saab 9-3 Convertible is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine which produces a maximum power of 210 horsepower connected to a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

Although the model prepared for the Los Angeles Auto Show will be showcased in a bright champagne metallic color, Saab says there are two more paint options available for the new model, namely Jet Black and Carbon Grey.

The anniversary 9-3 Convertible uses several parts from the Turbo X performance model, including the front bumper, the steering wheel and the carbon fiber interior finishes. Moreover, it features five-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels and five-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels available as standard.

The new model will arrive in authorized Saab dealerships in January 2009, with prices starting at $46,725. Although this is quite a hefty price for such a model, it's likely to see it reduced in the near future, taking into consideration the fact that General Motors has experienced very low sales in the last few months.

"Saab has sold more than a quarter of a million convertibles worldwide and this latest edition highlights the timeless design and responsible performance that Saab convertibles have always represented," said Steve Shannon, executive director, marketing and product, Saab Automobile USA. “Designed to be practical and stylish, the Scandinavian-styled convertible changed the perception of open top vehicles to be used all the year round.”