2011 Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin (facelift ) 2.0t BioPower (220 Hp) XWD Sentronic

The Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin, specifically the 2.0t BioPower (220 Hp) XWD Sentronic variant, represents a late-life evolution of a model that defined Saab’s commitment to Scandinavian design and innovative engineering. Produced briefly in 2011, it was among the final iterations of the 9-3 before Saab’s unfortunate bankruptcy. While not widely sold in the United States during its production run, the 9-3 held a significant position in the European market as a compact executive car, competing with models like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. This particular facelifted version aimed to refine the 9-3’s appeal with updated styling and enhanced efficiency, particularly through its BioPower engine capable of running on ethanol blends.

Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin: A Final Flourish

The 9-3 lineage began in 1998, replacing the aging 900. The second-generation 9-3, launched in 2002, brought a more sophisticated design and improved dynamics. The Griffin facelift of 2011 was a final attempt to modernize the car and boost sales, incorporating revised front-end styling, interior upgrades, and powertrain refinements. The 2.0t BioPower XWD Sentronic model combined a turbocharged engine with all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission, offering a blend of performance and all-weather capability. Its significance lies in representing the culmination of Saab’s engineering expertise before the brand’s demise.

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the 2.0t BioPower XWD Sentronic lies a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated A20NFT. This engine produces 220 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm. The “BioPower” designation indicates the engine’s capability to run on gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol (E85). This flexibility allowed owners in markets with readily available ethanol to reduce their carbon footprint and potentially lower fuel costs. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to maximize power and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via Saab’s XWD (Cross Wheel Drive) system, which employs an electronically controlled clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. This system enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The Sentronic 6-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and responsive gear changes. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). The 0-60 mph time is calculated at 8.5 seconds.

Design & Features

The Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin is a four-door, five-seater sedan characterized by its clean lines and understated elegance. The Griffin facelift brought a revised front grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the car a more contemporary appearance. The interior was similarly updated with improved materials and a redesigned dashboard. Key features included standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels (302mm front, 292mm rear), and an electric power steering system. The XWD system provided enhanced handling and stability. The car’s suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, offering a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The trunk offered 461 liters (16.28 cu. ft.) of storage space. Safety features, while standard for the time, included a robust chassis design and a focus on occupant protection. The car’s design prioritized functionality and practicality, reflecting Saab’s Scandinavian heritage.

Technical Specifications