The Saab 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin, specifically the 1.9 TTiD variant produced during the brief 2011 model year, represents a final iteration of Saab’s popular compact executive car before the brand’s unfortunate demise. This station wagon (estate) model, a facelift of the second-generation 9-3, was primarily aimed at the European market, where the demand for practical, yet stylish, vehicles remained strong. While Saab as a brand was not widely present in the United States by this point, the 9-3 Sport Combi offered a unique blend of Scandinavian design, turbocharged performance, and a focus on driver engagement that distinguished it from its more mainstream competitors.
Saab 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin: A Final Flourish
The 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin, introduced with the 2011 facelift, incorporated subtle styling updates and refinements to the existing 9-3 platform. The “Griffin” designation typically indicated a higher trim level with enhanced features. This particular model, powered by the 1.9 TTiD engine, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance between fuel efficiency and respectable performance. The Sport Combi body style, a station wagon, provided increased cargo capacity and versatility compared to the sedan version, making it a practical choice for families and those with active lifestyles.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin 1.9 TTiD is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated A19DTR. This engine utilizes twin-turbocharging and an intercooler to deliver 130 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2750 rpm. The twin-turbo setup was designed to minimize turbo lag and provide a broad, usable torque curve. Power per liter is rated at 68.1 Hp/l. This engine is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.1 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.5 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 119 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Saab 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin is a five-door, five-seat station wagon. Its exterior design retains the classic Saab aesthetic, characterized by clean lines and a distinctive front grille. The Sport Combi body style offers a generous 477 liters (16.85 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1331 liters (47 cu. ft.) when folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4691 mm (184.69 in.) in length, 1762 mm (69.37 in.) in width, and 1492 mm (58.74 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2675 mm (105.31 in.).
Inside, the 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin offers a comfortable and well-equipped cabin, typical of the higher trim levels. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The interior design emphasizes ergonomics and functionality, reflecting Saab’s commitment to driver-focused vehicles. The Griffin trim level likely included features such as upgraded upholstery, alloy wheels, and enhanced audio systems. The electric power steering provides a responsive and precise driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saab |
| Model | 9-3 |
| Generation | 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TTiD (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | December, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| 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 | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1525-1665 kg (3362.05 – 3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455-595 kg (1003.1 – 1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 477 l (16.85 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1331 l (47 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 with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4691 mm (184.69 in.) |
| Width | 1762 mm (69.37 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2038 mm (80.24 in.) |
| Height | 1492 mm (58.74 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 | 1014 mm (39.92 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 296 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 292 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 225/45 R17; 235/45 R17; 225/45 R18; 235/45 R18; 235/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
The 2011 Saab 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin 1.9 TTiD represents a poignant chapter in the Saab story. It was a well-engineered and practical vehicle that offered a unique driving experience, but ultimately, it was a swan song for a brand that was unable to overcome financial difficulties. Its legacy remains with enthusiasts who appreciate its Scandinavian design, turbocharged performance, and commitment to driver engagement.
