2^nd August, 2001

Australia’s favourite luxury softop, the top-selling Saab Convertible, gains even more distinction this month with the launch of the ‘Design Edition’ model.

A special limited edition, with Australia securing just 200 units, the eye-catching Saab 9-3 Design Edition Convertible is distinguished on the outside by sporty 17-inch alloy wheels, fully integrated aero body kit with color matched front and rear spoiler and side skirts, body-colored windscreen pillars and unique ‘Design Edition’ badging.

Interior of the new car is characterised by a titanium-finish dashboard, charcoal grey leather sports seats with blue inlays, special floor carpets to suit, matt-chrome door handle and perforated leather sports steering wheel.

Available in three colors only – Steel Grey, Silver and Black – the Design Edition convertible is powered by Saab’s acclaimed 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering a constant 240 Nm of torque from 1800 – 3500 rpm for smooth, swift and safe wind-in-the-hair performance.

As well as the rich leather interior and sports leather steering wheel, standard equipment also includes a CD sound system, cruise control, heated seats, climate control air-conditioning, front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, remote central locking with integrated dead-lock and alarm and sporty 17 x 7.5 inch five-spoke alloy wheels and tyres for maximum grip.

The Saab Design Edition Convertible sells for $66,900 (auto adds $2100) – representing a $2000 premium above the popular Saab S Convertible on which it is based.

Ever since the roof was peeled back in 1987 in Australia with the first Saab Convertible, Saab’s icon has become the undisputed luxury convertible in this country, growing to account for 50 % of luxury four-seat convertible sales since 1996.

In Great Britain, Sweden, the Netherlands and Belgium, the Saab share of the premium convertible market matches Australia at around 50 %.