Saab goes hi-po diesel for 9-3 Aero Convertible

SAAB Australia has broadened the availability of its twin-turbocharged TTiD diesel engine from the 9-3 Aero sedan and SportCombi to a Special Edition 9-3 Aero Convertible, priced from $95,000.

The TTiD is a substantial improvement over the base 110kW/320Nm 1.9-litresingle-turbo diesel available on lesser 9-3 Convertibles, producing 132kW at 4000rpm and 400Nm from 1850-2750rpm in six-speed manual form. The six-speed auto is detuned to 370Nm at 1750-3250rpm. The 9-3 Aero Convertible also comes with a 206kW 2.8-litre petrol engine.

Externally, the Special Edition 9-3 Aero Convertible gets goodies from the new 9-3 Turbo X to differentiate it, including its silver 18-inch alloys, front bumper and steering wheel. It also gets a bit of carbon-fibre interior trim and 60th anniversary floor coverings.

The Special Edition 9-3 Aero Convertible is priced from $95,000 with a six-speed manual – $4200 more than the V6 petrol-engined Aero Convertible – and a six-speed auto is available for an extra $2500.

As well as a new metallic champagne colour, which was naturally selected for Flemington, the car also comes in metallic black and grey hues.