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Here's a rough translation for those without obscure Scandinavian language skills:
Heading: VG has test-driven the new Saab.
Subheading: First came the smile. Then the laughter. And finally the paises to GM for saving Saab from certain death.
Text:
The place is Frosunda outside Stockholm. As one of the first journalists in the world I take my place behind the wheel of Saab's most important car so far -- the new 9-3 Sport Sedan. Inside, everything is new but still familiar. The ignition is still between the seats and the dashboard has the same cockpit design. Despite 45 buttons and switches there were no problems finding things.
Choice of materials is good. Which it has to be if Saab is going to seriously compete with BMW, Mercedes and Audi in the snobby segment. The design is no revolution. No doubt that this is a Saab. These are well-known lines, especially from the big brother 9-5. It's not hard to find a good driving position. Seat adjustability is extensive and seat comfort in the sport seats is impeccable.
"A driving machine" asserts Saab.
Well, we'll see about that, we mumble. At Swedish highway speeds about only the tire noise form the low profile tires is audible. The car is a stabile as a locomotive. A smile is creeping in. Without realizing it, the speed increases. The test car's 175hp turbo motor almost begs to work. One glimpse of the speedometer tells me that I have to watch myself.
[cut out engine info]
The backseat is fine for the smallest members of the family. For adults a long trip in the back will mean tired legs. Saab owners who are used to the hatchback of the current 9-3 will be disappointed when the largest dogs are loaded in. The regular trunk doesn't offer the flexbility you need when you have to carry Ikea boxes home [ain't that the truth -- I just carried home $800 worth of Ikea furniture in my Viggen, stuffed ot the gills but with room to spare].
Finally my colleague and I get to the part we've been waiting for -- the first winding roads into the Swedish farmland. Carefully at first we see how well the Saab hangs in there.
The motor and chassis beg to work harder. We don't hesitate. My colleague is in serious driving mode and carries several decades of experience from motorsports. The curves come as quickly as cloudbursts on a July day without any indication from the Saab that it wants to put out its landing gear.
There is minimal lurching. Centimeter-precision has become millimeter-precision. The electronic stability system can take a vacation. This car doesn't need help and it cleans up on its own. Steering response is wonderful, and the brakes are comfortable but with constant "bite".
Luckily. The Turbo engine delivers power from top to bottom of the register. The well-known turbo lag is history. The careful smiles from thehighway have become childish laughing fits.
Congrats on the new car, "sota bror" [=Swede].
posted by 208.200.185...
Sweden's neighbor's take on the 9-3SS
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