THE all new Saab 9-3 Sport Saloon is now available. It is the product of the most exhaustive research and development programme undertaken by Saab and is the company’s first contender in the mid-size saloon sector.

As a result, the handling of the car and its sensitivity to the driver combine to challenge the class benchmark set by its competitors.

The 9-3 range features a choice of three new two-litre, aluminium turbocharged petrol engines ranging in power from 150-210 bhp.

The petrol range is supplemented by a 2.2 TiD. Three specification levels are available, allowing the driver a choice of materials and equipment.

Representing this year’s only new entrant in the mid-size saloon sector, the 9-3 will position Saab head on with premium competitors such as the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series and Volvo S60. Consequently, Saab plans to take a large slice of sales in what is the UK’s fastest growing volume class, the mid-size premium saloon sector.

David Payne, dealer principal at Sutton Park Saab, said he was excited by the recent arrival. The 9-3 is one of the year’s most eagerly awaited vehicles and as such has generated much consumer and media interest.

“We’re confident that drivers will be impressed by the responsive performance of the engine, while being reassured by the new safety features that include a bodyshell that is more than twice as sturdy as its predecessors,” he said.

The 9-3 is the first step in the biggest product development programme in Saab’s history.

Following its launch, the Saab product range will expand dramatically over the next few years with an extensive range of new, sporty multidynamic cars designed with the modern, active individual in mind.

The new model replaces the previous 9-3 hatchback, which had a cult following and was, as a result, the most popular car in the Saab range, with the Swedish manufacturer producing almost 1.5 million units since the introduction of the first 900 hatch in 1978.

Costing from £18,495 on the road, the new Saab 9-3 and is available now from local dealers.