The 2.0T Sport Sedan ($26,170), SportCombi ($27,170), and convertible ($36,770) are all similarly equipped, and powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 210 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is now standard; a five-speed automatic is optional ($1,350). Leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control are standard equipment; so are power windows, door locks and heated outside mirrors; an eight-way power driver's seat; leather-trimmed steering wheel; 16-inch alloy road wheels; seven-speaker audio with CD player and MP3 capability; and two 12-volt power outlets.

Likewise, the Aero Sport Sedan ($32,475), SportCombi ($33,375), and convertible ($42,375) are all similarly equipped and feature a 2.8-liter turbo V6 rated at 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Again, a six-speed manual comes standard. The optional automatic is also a six-speed, with shifter paddles on the steering wheel, but it lists for the same price as the five-speed in the 2.0T ($1,350). Aero models are further upgraded with 17-inch alloy wheels; xenon projector headlamps; fog lights; premium audio; and a moonroof.

A DVD navigation system is available for all models ($2,145), as is OnStar ($695). Premium metallic paint ($550) is available in a broad palette of interesting colors; while special upholstery colors are available for no extra charge. A cold-weather package ($550) combines heated front seats with headlight washers. A blue top is available for the convertible ($600), instead of the standard tan or black.

Options for the 2.0T include a moonroof ($1,200), and a Premium Audio Package ($895) that delivers 260 watts and 11 speakers (in sedans) or 300 watts and 10 speakers (convertible and Combi) plus XM Satellite radio, 6-disc in-dash changer, and pre-wiring for a hands-free phone. That system can be combined with navigation in the Navigation/Premium Package ($2,740). Another Premium Package ($1,795) combines Red Walnut interior trim (except, that is, on the convertible) with an 8-way power passenger seat, driver seat memory, Xenon headlamps, front fog lights, Rear Park Assist, 17-inch alloy wheels, express up/down for the front power windows, and remote opening for windows and moonroof or convertible top. Yet another package ($1,995) combines the previous package with automatic rain-sensing wipers.

A Touring Package ($1,195) for the Aero adds Rear Park Assist, memory for the driver's seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated garage door opener and compass, rain-sensing wipers, express up/down for the windows with remote opening for windows, moonroof or top.

Safety is a key feature of all 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 a variety of difficult situations. Passive safety features include dual-stage front airbags, dual-stage side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted curtain airbags. Saab's Active Head Restraint system that cradles the head to minimize whiplash in a rear collision is also standard.