Linear models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 175 horsepower. Arc and Aero are powered by the same 2.0-liter engine but with a high-output turbocharger for 210 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on Linear and Arc; Saab's five-speed automatic Sentronic ($1,350), which features semi-manual gear selection, is optional. Aero comes standard with a six-speed manual; the optional five-speed automatic comes with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles ($1,350).

The Linear sedan ($26,850) and the new Linear convertible ($37,100) come well equipped. Standard features include leather-appointed seats; five-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels; seven-speaker audio with CD; input for MP3; heated power mirrors; two 12V outlets. For 2005, all 9-3 models come with no-charge scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance during the warranty period.

The Arc sedan ($30,250) and convertible ($39,995) get a higher level of equipment: 10-spoke 16-inch alloys; dual-zone automatic climate control; cruise control; power windows, door locks and outside mirrors; a 300-watt stereo with CD player and 13 speakers; power front seats with driver memory; and front fog lights. Options include heated front seats ($500); Xenon headlamps with high-pressure washers ($650); moonroof ($1,200); and the navigation system ($2,295). Options for the Arc convertible include a Driver's Package ($1,695), consisting of a wood/leather steering wheel, wood shift surround, rain-sensing wipers, rear park assist, 6-disc CD changer, remote top operation, and auto-dimming interior mirror with integrated garage door opener.

The Aero sedan ($32,850) and Aero convertible ($42,600) feature a lowered, sport-tuned chassis; an exterior body kit; 17-inch wheels; a tire-pressure monitor; Sport exhaust; a 300-watt, 13-speaker sound system; and leather-faced seats. A Convertible Touring Package ($1,495) adds remote top operation, an auto-dimming interior mirror with integrated garage door opener, memory for the driver's seat, rain-sensing wipers, rear park assist, a poplar wood and leather steering wheel, and a six-disc CD changer. Heated seats ($500), and xenon HID headlamps with washers ($650) are optional.

The convertible can be enhanced with a blue top ($600) to replace the standard black top. A special color-matched tonneau ($350) is available to go with models ordered in the steel gray metallic paint.

Safety is a keynote feature on Saabs and the 9-3 is loaded with active and passive safety features. Among them: electronic stability control (ESP), cornering brake control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and traction control, all designed to help the driver maintain control. In addition to the dual-stage front airbags, dual-stage side-impact and roofrail airbags protecting both torso and head come standard. Also standard: Saab's Active Head Restraint system that automatically cradles the head to minimize whiplash in a rear-impact collision.