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

The Saab 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin (facelift 2011) 2.0t BioPower Sentronic represents a final refinement of Saab’s popular compact executive car before the brand’s unfortunate demise in December 2011. Positioned as a station wagon (estate) within the European market, the 9-3 aimed to blend Scandinavian practicality with a sporty driving experience. This particular iteration, the Griffin, was a facelift introduced to enhance the model’s appeal and maintain competitiveness. The “BioPower” designation indicates the engine’s capability to run on both gasoline and E85 ethanol fuel, a feature reflecting Saab’s commitment to alternative fuels. While not officially sold in the United States, the 9-3 competed with vehicles like the Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3 Series Touring, and Volvo V60 in Europe.

Saab 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin: Overview

The second generation Saab 9-3, launched in 2002, was a significant departure from its predecessor, sharing its platform with the General Motors Epsilon architecture. This platform underpinned several other GM vehicles, allowing for economies of scale. The Sport Combi body style, introduced in 2005, offered increased cargo capacity and versatility compared to the sedan. The 2011 facelift, denoted as the “Griffin” trim, brought subtle styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced standard equipment. The 2.0t BioPower engine was a key offering, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, particularly when utilizing E85 fuel.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the 2011 Saab 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin 2.0t BioPower is a 1.998-liter (121.93 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 220 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm. The BioPower capability allows the engine to run on gasoline or a blend of gasoline and ethanol up to E85, increasing power output when using higher ethanol concentrations. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed Sentronic automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.8 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 6.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.3 kg/Nm.

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 a wraparound windshield and a distinctive front grille. The facelifted model features revised headlights, a new front bumper, and updated taillights. Inside, the Griffin trim level offers improved interior materials and a more refined ambiance. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for a modern vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for occupant protection. The Sport Combi body style provides a generous 477 liters (16.85 cubic feet) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1331 liters (47 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4691 mm (184.69 inches) in length, 1762 mm (69.37 inches) in width, and 1492 mm (58.74 inches) in height.

Technical Specifications

The Saab 9-3 Sport Combi II Griffin 2.0t BioPower, despite its short production run in this final form, represents a compelling blend of Scandinavian design, practicality, and performance. Its ability to run on renewable fuels and its focus on safety made it a noteworthy vehicle in the European market, and a poignant reminder of the innovative spirit of the Saab brand.