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Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible Debut



10/99

SAAB 9-3 VIGGEN CONVERTIBLE MAKES WEST COAST DEBUT

9-3 Viggen models and 9-5 Aero displayed at California International Auto Show

Anaheim, CA - Saab Cars USA, Inc. showcased its all-new 2000 Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible at the California International Auto Show on Wednesday, October 20, 1999. This performance-oriented drop-top features a high-output turbocharged 2.3-liter engine that provides 230 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 258 Ib.-ft. of torque from a low 2,500 rpm all the way up to 4,500 rpm for unique power on-demand.

For 2000, Saab also adds a versatile 5-door variant to the Viggen line and will continue to offer the Coupe model. All three 9-3 Viggen models are available in two new colors, Black and Silver, in addition to the previous Viggen exclusive Lightning Blue. Less than 3,000 Viggens will be produced for the world in model year 2000, with 1,000 of them coming to the U.S. market.

Another Saab high-performance variant makes its West Coast debutÑthe new Saab 9-5 Aero. This luxury sport sedan builds on the performance heritage of its predecessor, the 9000 Aero, while adding all of the innovative technologies and amenities of the current 9-5 model line. The 9-5 Aero features a high-output turbocharged 2.3-liter engine similar to the 9-3 Viggen. Its performance character is complemented by sporty exterior and interior styling changes, including flared rocker panels, a front chin spoiler, a rear valance and a sport steering wheel. Saab engineers have also integrated a sport chassis with performance-optimized suspension, upgraded brakes and 17-inch alloy wheels with low profile tires.

The 9-5 Aero and 9-3 Viggen deliver the unmistakable thrust of Saab turbo performance while retaining traditional Saab character traits, including world-first safety features. They continue Saab's tradition of producing "hot rod" variants - cars like the 900 Turbo SPG and 9000 Aero that mixed muscular acceleration with sport suspension and aerodynamic finesse.

In addition, Saab Cars USA, Inc. has announced plans to move its Western Regional Office from Union City, California to Irvine, California. The move, which will take place in December, 1999, is designed to provide Saab with a stronger presence in the influential Southern California market.

"Southern California presents an enormous opportunity for us," said George LoCascio, Western Region Director. "It is an emerging Saab market that offers an excellent opportunity to grow our brand. This move will help us fully support our retail partners in this area." Saab currently has four retail facilities in the Los Angeles area, and its calendar year sales in this market are up 66 percent over 1998. There are plans to add six more retail facilities in Southern California in the next 18 months.

Saab Cars USA Inc. is the importer of Saab 9-5 and 9-3 automobiles. Nationwide, Saab's calendar year sales are up nearly 44 percent for 1999Ñone of the highest increases of any European importer.

Saab Cars USA, Inc. in headquartered in Norcross, Georgia, near Atlanta.


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