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Whilst my '05 9-3 ARC was in for service I had a brand new '08 9-3 as a loaner. Can report that suspension seems to be much better bolted, -much better isolation and no wash board rough ride, as is my '05.
Perhaps it's due to revisions in one or all of the shocks, bushings,isolators, suspension geometry but it is definitely a more supple ride, without loosing any of the road feel. Well done Saab. I note that the turning radius seems a bit wider than my '05 ; required geometery revisions I would think.
The throttle response seems very much better; reduced turbo lag is also noticeable.
The ergonomics are a step backwards though- the dash controls are disappointing; the removal of the high centre info bulge is a definite loss; the temperature control numbers are too small and all the HVAC controls are set too low vertically. This lowered HVAC placement is caused by the overly large space taken by the GM radio- poor design Saab.
And then I looked out the front window screen and thought there was a horizontal dirt streak on the glass. No wait, it wasn't dirt- its the reflection of the chrome surround strip on the dash edge-Wow, what a dumb detail....quick, get out the black electrical tape! What was Saab thinking?
And then those rear lights- I guess Saab had to change soemthing to call the model "new" but why fix something when it ain't broke?
It is odd that some things seem very well improved on this '08 9-3, while other aspects, most notably the ergonomics, seem reduced in design quality. One is left to ponder, where is Saab going and who's driving?
posted by 70.53.44...
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