What is the GM equivalent of the Saab 9-3?
The Saab 9-3 was a compact executive car produced by the Swedish automaker Saab from 1998 to 2014. When Saab went bankrupt in 2011, General Motors (GM), which had previously owned Saab, stepped in to fill the void with a similar vehicle – the Buick Regal.
The Saab 9-3
The Saab 9-3 was a popular and well-regarded vehicle, known for its distinctive Scandinavian design, turbocharged engines, and emphasis on safety and performance. It was available in a variety of body styles, including a sedan, convertible, and wagon. The 9-3 was Saab's best-selling model and a key part of the brand's lineup until the company's demise.
The Buick Regal: GM's Response
When Saab went bankrupt, GM saw an opportunity to fill the void left by the 9-3 with a similar vehicle in its own lineup. The Buick Regal, which had been in production since 1973, was chosen as the closest equivalent to the Saab 9-3.
The Buick Regal shared many similarities with the Saab 9-3, including:
- Compact executive car size and positioning
- Turbocharged engine options for performance
- Available in sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles
- Emphasis on safety and technology features
While the Regal may not have had the same level of brand cachet or distinctive styling as the Saab 9-3, it was a capable and well-rounded vehicle that filled a similar niche in the market.
Key Differences
Despite the similarities, there were some key differences between the Saab 9-3 and the Buick Regal:
- The Regal had a more traditional American sedan design, while the 9-3 had a more distinctive Scandinavian aesthetic.
- The Saab 9-3 was known for its emphasis on safety and performance, while the Regal was more focused on comfort and luxury.
- The 9-3 had a more enthusiast-oriented driving experience, while the Regal was tuned more for a smooth, refined ride.
Ultimately, the Buick Regal was GM's attempt to fill the void left by the Saab 9-3, and it was a reasonably successful effort. While it may not have had the same level of brand cachet or driving dynamics as the 9-3, the Regal was a capable and well-rounded vehicle that appealed to a similar target audience.
What engine does the Saab 9 3 use?
The 9-3 Aero Carlsson featured Saab's cross wheel drive (XWD) system, a turbocharged engine, 2.8 L V6 producing 280 hp, and 400Nm of torque through a 6-speed "Sentronic" hydraulic automatic transmission.
Can you still get parts for Saab cars?
The Swedish company stopped car production in 2011, but we still stock a huge range of Saab spares for popular models including 93, 95, 900, and 99 here at Euro Car Parts, so you can keep your Saab car running smoothly.
What Saab has a Chevy engine?
Both the Saab 9-7X Aero and the Chevrolet Trailblazer SS came with the 6.0L LS2 V8 engine, the same engine used in the 2005 to 2007 model of the Chevrolet Corvette modified for use in GMT360 vehicles, producing 390 hp (291 kW) and 400 lb⋅ft (542 N⋅m) of torque.
How many miles can a Saab 9-3 last?
Re: How many miles should a Saab 9-3 1.9 tid (120) go for? A lot may depend on how the first 111k was driven, if it has a decent service history with regular oil changes then it's only just run in. If it's been thrashed and not serviced correctly or with the wrong oil, it may not last past 150k.
What year to avoid Saab 9-3?
If you're in the market for a Saab 9-3, consider avoiding the 2003 model, which received several complaints from owners. The 2002 also has a few issues, but it's known as one of the best year models of the Saab 9-3.
What car is GM discontinuing?
The gas-fed Blazer could get the axe after the 2025 model year, as GM is expected to drop some ICE SUVs from its lineup. The Chevy Blazer will no longer be sold in North America after the 2025 model year, as first reported by GM Authority.
Why did GM shut down Saab?
In 2012, Spyker filed a lawsuit against GM asking for US$3 billion in damages after GM had attempted to block the deals between Spyker and Chinese automaker Youngman, who were investing in Saab Automobile. Consequently, Saab was forced to file bankruptcy in 2012.
Does GM still make Saab cars?
Saab eventually met its demise in 2012, two years after GM sold it to Swedish supercar maker Spyker, which itself fell on hard financial times after the acquisition.
What is the most common problem with the Saab 9-3?
Top Saab 9-3 Problems
- Engine Coolant Loss and no Leak Noted.
- Knocking Noise While Turning and/or a Banging Noise When Driving on Rough Roads.
- The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and/or Traction Control Light May Illuminate.
- Engine Dies while Driving Or Will Crank but not Start.
- Excessive Exhaust Noise From Flex Pipe Failure.
What year did GM take over Saab?
2000
GM bought out Saab Automobile completely in 2000, rolling out a line of rebadged models that were tepidly received, though a version of Subaru's WRX called the Saab 9-2X Aero garnered critical praise.
