The Saab 9-3 Sedan II 2.8T V6 (250 Hp) Sentronic represents a significant iteration in Saab’s mid-size offering, produced between 2005 and 2007. This model, while not widely sold in the United States during its production run, embodies Saab’s commitment to Scandinavian design principles and turbocharged performance. The 9-3 Sedan II aimed to blend practicality, safety, and a unique driving experience within the competitive executive car segment. It served as a key model for Saab in the European market, appealing to drivers seeking an alternative to more mainstream German and British brands.
The Saab 9-3 Sedan II 2.8T V6: A Detailed Overview
The 9-3 Sedan II was part of a broader 9-3 range that included hatchback and convertible body styles. The sedan variant specifically targeted buyers prioritizing a traditional three-box design and a more spacious interior. The 2.8T V6 Sentronic trim level represented the performance peak of the sedan lineup, offering a potent engine paired with Saab’s automated manual transmission.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 9-3 2.8T V6 lies the B284R engine, a 2.8-liter V6 producing 250 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 2750 rpm. This engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger and an intercooler to maximize power output and minimize turbo lag. The Sentronic transmission, a six-speed automated manual, provides quick and precise gear changes, contributing to the car’s respectable performance figures. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 7.5 seconds, while the 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 7.1 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 245 km/h (152.24 mph). Despite its performance capabilities, fuel economy is rated at 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) combined, with urban consumption reaching 16.9 l/100 km (13.9 US mpg) and extra-urban figures at 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg). CO2 emissions are rated at 259 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Saab 9-3 Sedan II features a distinctive Scandinavian design language, characterized by clean lines and a focus on functionality. The body is a traditional four-door sedan configuration, offering seating for five passengers. Key design elements include Saab’s signature wraparound windshield and a sculpted hood. The interior prioritizes driver comfort and ergonomics, with a focus on intuitive controls and a minimalist aesthetic. Safety was a paramount concern for Saab, and the 9-3 Sedan II is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs) contributes to its balanced handling characteristics. Trunk space is a practical 425 liters (15.01 cu. ft.), providing ample room for luggage and cargo. The fuel tank capacity is 58 liters (15.32 US gal). The car’s dimensions are 4635 mm (182.48 in) in length, 1762 mm (69.37 in) in width, and 1466 mm (57.72 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2675 mm (105.31 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saab |
| Model | 9-3 |
| Generation | 9-3 Sedan II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.8T V6 (250 Hp) Sentronic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.9 l/100 km (13.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 259 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 250 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2000-2750 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B284R |
| Engine displacement | 2792 cm3 (170.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 74.8 mm (2.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4635 mm (182.48 in.) |
| Width | 1762 mm (69.37 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1466 mm (57.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Front overhang | 965 mm (37.99 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 995 mm (39.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Sentronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 235/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
The Saab 9-3 Sedan II 2.8T V6 Sentronic, despite Saab’s eventual financial difficulties, remains a compelling example of Scandinavian automotive engineering. Its blend of performance, safety, and distinctive design continues to appeal to enthusiasts and collectors alike.
