Paris Motor Show: 'Saab Performance by Hirsch' Goes On Sale
Saab Automobile today (26 Sept) announced the start of sales of 'Saab Performance by Hirsch' customization packages for its 9-5 Aero, 2.3-liter turbo sedan and wagon models.
Developed in association with Hirsch Performance AG of Switzerland, the sporty engine, chassis and styling aftermarket enhancements include a choice of power upgrades to 305 or 280 bhp. They are available from 1 October exclusively through Saab dealerships in Sweden, the United Kingdom, Germany and Switzerland.
'Saab Performance by Hirsch' products for the 9-5 Aero are offered in three packages, although customers can 'mix and match' items as they wish from an extensive portfolio.
Thomas Lindskog, Executive Director Aftersales, said: " 'Saab Performance by Hirsch' programs will allow our customers to go much further in terms of performance and design, sharpening the edge of our top-of-the-line models without compromising their design, quality or durability.
The '305 bhp' package raises peak power by 22 per cent and peak torque by 20 per cent, to 420 Nm, still available from 2,000 and 4,000 rpm. This is achieved through fitting a modified turbocharger; a larger air intake pipe and intercooler; a big bore, dual pipe sports exhaust system and reprogramming of the Trionic engine management module.
The chassis is lowered by 10 mm with harder, sports-tuned springs and dampers; larger front brake discs with four-piston calipers and 18-inch, six spoke alloy wheels with 235/40 low profile tyres. Wind tunnel-tested aerodynamic modifications include new front and rear bumper assemblies, sculpted sill extensions and the addition of a rear lip spoiler to the trunk of the sedan and a bridge spoiler to the roof for the wagon. The fully-integrated styling is complemented by a mesh grille insert.
The '280 bhp' package lifts maximum power by 12 per cent and torque, at 400 Nm, by 14 per cent, through the fitment of a larger air intake and intercooler; a single, larger stainless steel sports exhaust and engine management adjustments.
The interior design package includes a gray carbon fiber fascia insert; a sports leather/carbon fiber steering wheel; drilled aluminum pedals with an alloy footrest; leather-trimmed door handles and carbon fiber kickplates on the door sills. Superb, uniquely-designed, sports leather front seats can be additionally specified.
As you would expect, the strong performance of the standard Aero is noticeably sharper, the 305 bhp upgrade delivering zero to 100 kph acceleration in just 6.4 secs for the sedan and 6.6 secs for the wagon, compared to 6.9 secs and 7.3 secs for the standard car. Exceptionally strong torque gives even more impressive mid-range performance, as indicated by fourth gear 60-100 kph acceleration in just 5.1 secs for the sedan, compared to 6.5 secs for the standard Aero.
Complete packages will be fitted at 'Saab Performance by Hirsch' centers, where staff are trained and certified to carry out the work. Customers can also order individual items or smaller packages from the 'Saab Performance by Hirsch' range through Saab dealerships.
It is the first time Saab has co-operated in the aftermarket with an external supplier of engine performance enhancements and all parts are fully guaranteed in line with Saab's new car warranty.
The long-term agreement between Saab Automobile AB and Hirsch Performance AG, who are proven Saab specialists, is designed to cater for a growing number of discerning customers who want to further develop the sporty individuality of Saab cars in keeping with the values of the brand. It is anticipated that 'Saab Performance by Hirsch' products for the 9-5 Aero will be followed by further packages for current and future Saab products.
"Hirsch Performance AG has the market knowledge and flexibility that is needed to develop these exclusive, relatively low volume products. They are initially available only through our Swedish, British, German and Swiss dealerships but we will include other European markets in the near future before extending the program further afield," said Thomas Lindskog
Rene Hirsch, Chief Executive Officer for Hirsch Performance AG, says: " These products for the 9-5 Aero have been developed as a very natural extension of the car's sporty character. For example, engine performance characteristics are enhanced, rather than dramatically altered, and our design features are essentially functional rather than being simply cosmetic."
Engines and performance, Saab Performance by Hirsch
| Engines | 305 bhp package | 280 bhp package |
| Displacement | 2.290 dm3 | 2.290 dm3 |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| EEC rating | 305 hp (224 kW) at 5.500 rpm | 280 hp (206 kW) at 5.500 rpm |
| EEC peak torque | 420 Nm at 2.000 - 4.000 rpm | 400 Nm at 2.000 - 4.000 rpm |
| Max boost pressure | 1.15 bar | 1.10 bar |
| Acceleration during test, Sedan version | 305 bhp package | 280 bhp package | ||
| Manual | Sentronic | Manual | Sentronic | |
| Top speed (limited)km/h | 250 | 250 | 250 | 250 |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.4 s | 6.6 s | 6.5 s | 6.7 s |
| 0-200 km/h | 22.5 s | 23.3 s | 24.2 s | 24.9 s |
| 60-100 km/h in fourth gear | 5.1 s | - | 5.3 s | - |
| 80-120 km/h in fifth gear | 7.3 s | - | 7.5 s | - |
| Braking distance during test | 305 bhp package | 280 bhp package |
| 100-0 km/h | 37.5 meters/ 2.7 seconds | - |
| Decelaration | 10.3 m/s2 | - |
Chassis: Sports chassis, lowered by 10 mm
Brakes: Front discs with 331 mm diameter and 4 piston jaws.
Wheels: Aluminium wheels 8 x 18", with 235/40 18 inch.
Body: Aerodynamics kit including front and rear spoiler, integrated bumpers,
side and rear skirts and radiator grille.
280 hp Package:
Engine: Modified intake section and charge cooler, single-pipe stainless
steel sports exhaust, adjustment of engine electronic system.
Interior Package: Interior: Carbon-fibre dashboard, carbon sill covers,
aluminium pedals, sports steering wheel, leather door handles.
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