That is very sharp. I like it. It does appear that the hatch is on the way back "in", though to folks like us, it's never been "out". Not necessarily 9-3 competition though, because it's one size smaller.

I'd read that Audi is going to bring the next generation A3 to the USA, so this will mean Audi, Mercedes, BMW, BMW's Mini and now Volvo will all be players in the premium small hatch segment. And VW's GTI is no slouch either. Not to mention the WRX Wagon from Subaru.

And where is Saab? Last I recall reading, they had abandoned their plans for a smaller "9-2" series. Out of step again? Maybe Saab product planners will put the small hatch back on line. I think they will be missing out on a good thing if they don't.

I know I'm getting off topic, but, speaking of the Subaru, I stopped at a dealer over the weekend, hoping to test drive a WRX. They had two, which were already sold, but none available for a test drive. They did however have an Impreza Outback Sport Wagon which I drove. Same body style as the WRX Wagon, but with two-tone paint and a slightly raised suspension. Powered by normally aspirated, 165 hp, 2.5 liter boxer 4-cylinder. I was pleasantly surprised with the test drive. It's not the same class of car as a Saab of course, but this little wagon had surprising power I found it fun to drive. Subaru provides a compact, fully equipped, versatile, 4-wheel drive wagon which stickers at $18,695. Quite a nice package for the money, even without the WRX turbo power, IMO. The somewhat odd looks of the new Impreza are even beginning to grow on me. Have to try that WRX soon. Subarus are interesting cars and, with GM's tie-in with the company, we well may see Subaru 4-wheel drive technology in future Saabs. Not a bad thing.

• 2003 Volvo H30, Picture!, Senneca, Mon, 19 Mar 2001 16:03:27
  • really sharp - Volvo isn't a box anymore, John A., Tue, 20 Mar 2001 19:53:27
  • Rebadged Ford Focus? Looks like one..., Scott Paterson , Tue, 20 Mar 2001 14:08:49
    • Re: Nope, not a rebadged Focus..., Senneca, Tue, 20 Mar 2001 16:52:04
  • Where is Saab's small hatch?, Seamus, Tue, 20 Mar 2001 07:52:09 <-- Viewing This Message
    • Re: Where is Saab's small hatch?, Paul , Tue, 20 Mar 2001 20:16:35
      • Re: Where is Saab's small hatch?, Nathan Work, Wed, 21 Mar 2001 14:11:06
  • Very nice. (m), mfatic, Mon, 19 Mar 2001 22:47:41

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