The Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2011, represents a final refinement of a model line that defined Saab’s commitment to Scandinavian design and innovative engineering. Positioned within the compact executive car segment, the 9-3 aimed to compete with established European rivals like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. However, the 9-3 carved its own niche with a focus on safety, driver engagement, and a distinctive, understated aesthetic. This iteration, powered by the 1.9 TTiD engine, was primarily sold in Europe, offering a blend of performance and fuel efficiency. Production of this specific configuration was limited, ending in December 2011, coinciding with the broader challenges faced by Saab Automobile at the time.
Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin (2011) 1.9 TTiD: An Overview
The 9-3 Sedan II Griffin facelift brought subtle but important updates to the second-generation 9-3, which originally debuted in 2007. These changes included revised front-end styling, interior enhancements, and powertrain refinements. The 1.9 TTiD variant, equipped with a twin-turbocharged diesel engine, was a popular choice in European markets due to its favorable fuel economy and respectable power output. The “Griffin” designation often denoted a specific trim level with enhanced features, though variations existed depending on the country.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2011 Saab 9-3 1.9 TTiD is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated A19DTR. This engine is notable for its twin-turbocharger configuration, which provides a broad torque curve and minimizes turbo lag. The engine produces 180 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1,800 and 3,000 rpm. This torque output allows for strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 16.5:1. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 8.5 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in a calculated 8.1 seconds. The 9-3 1.9 TTiD boasts a top speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption ranging from 4.5 to 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers (52.3 to 48 US mpg), and CO2 emissions between 119 and 129 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Saab 9-3 Sedan II Griffin maintains the classic Saab sedan profile – a four-door, five-seat configuration. The 2011 facelift brought a redesigned front grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the car a more contemporary appearance. The interior emphasizes Scandinavian design principles: functional, uncluttered, and focused on driver comfort. Key features include a comfortable cabin, a well-designed dashboard, and a focus on safety. The 9-3 incorporates features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The car’s trunk offers 461 liters (16.28 cubic feet) of storage space. The suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, providing a balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saab |
| Model | 9-3 |
| Generation | 9-3 Sedan II Griffin (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TTiD (180 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | December, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7-6.2 l/100 km (41.3 – 37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9-4.2 l/100 km (60.3 – 56 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5-4.9 l/100 km (52.3 – 48 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 119-129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1800-3000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A19DTR |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510-1635 kg (3328.98 – 3604.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425-550 kg (936.96 – 1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 461 l (16.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4668 mm (183.78 in.) |
| Width | 1762 mm (69.37 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Rear track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1002 mm (39.45 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 991 mm (39.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 302 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 292 mm |
| Tire size | 225/45 R17; 235/45 R17; 225/45 R18; 235/45 R18; 235/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
