Saab debuts 9-3 Carlsson Edition for German Market

In honor of the 80th birthday of rallying legend Erik "On The Roof" Carlsson, Saab debuted a special 9³ model - the Carlsson Edition.  The Carlsson edition boasts mechanical and aesthetic upgrades for the discerning driver, with more power, grip, and better looks.  Sounds like more of a good thing - I'm an unabashed fan of the current 9³ line.

Under the hood, the Carlsson edition 9³ receives the extensively-developed Hirsch Stage 1 program, which bumps power from 210bhp and 221lb-ft (300nM) up to 240bhp and 258lb-ft (350nM).  This is acheived by the use of a Hirsch-modified ECU, and a Hirsch sports exhaust is also available.  This 2.0L turbo engine is mated to Saab's nifty XWD all-wheel-drive system, which is Haldex IV with an eLSD in the rear - the first on the market.

With the extra power, the 9³ Carlsson can accelerate to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds, on to a maximum velocity of 245km/h (153mph).  Despite the extra performance, the 9³ Carlsson only consumes 8.2L/100km, which isn't too shabby.

Outside, the Carlsson edition receives a subtle silver lower front diffuser, a small rear spoiler, and standardard 18" alloys.  Options include Turbo-X like 19" alloys as well as a burbly sounding Hirsch exhaust, which is a must-have.  The interio receives the Hirsch upgrade, which really should be standard equipment on all 9³ models- all sexy carbon fibre and hand stitched leather.  Oh yes.

Pricing for the 9³ Carlsson starts at €42,350 for the sedan and €43,950 for the SportCombi (which is Saab-speak for station wagon.)  Get 'em while they're hot.