The latest Saab 9-3 features a range of three twin turbocharged engines, comprising comprises a 130bhp TTiD unit (replacing the previous 120bhp TiD engine), a 160bhp version (replacing the 150bhp TiD engine) and a range-topping 180bhp/400Nm variant that is said to deliver the most efficient performance for a four-cylinder diesel engine in the marketplace in terms of CO2 per unit of horsepower.

All three diesel engines offer CO2 emissions of 119g/km for the saloon – a reduction of 10% compared to the former range – which ensures that the model is tax-exempt for vehicle excise duty. In addition, all saloon models offer a combined cycle fuel consumption of 62.8mpg. 

The SportWagon offers 61.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 122g/km and for the Convertible, the respective figures are 54.3mpg and 137g/km.

The latest reduction in CO2 emissions has been achieved by a number of measures including optimised gearing as well as revised gear ratios, recalibrated engine management with improved fuel injection and combustion control, improved electrical power management, low rolling resistance tyres, improved aerodynamics, and reduced weight.

The all-turbo petrol line-up, which features an average reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of 7%, also benefits from some of these measures.   

The 2011 model year 9-3 also features changes to standard equipment levels and all models now come with Bluetooth phone integration and heated front seats as standard. Other model year enhancements include the introduction of a "change-up" indicator; a clutch interlock system on manual transmissions; child seat top tether anchorage points and a perforated leather sport steering wheel on Aero models. Two new exterior paint colours have been added to the range – Diamond Silver and Java – and rear engine badging has been changed to follow the same style as used on the new 9-5 saloon.