Saab has announced an updated version of its 1.9-litre diesel engine range for the 2011 model year 9-3. The new engines emit 119g/km of CO2, meaning the diesel will fall into tax band C, costing private drivers only £30 a year to tax, with the first year being free.
The engines, all of which now feature twin turbochargers and new efficiency systems, are available in three versions - 130bhp, 160bhp and 180bhp. Saab say they all have the same combined economy figure of 63mpg, and emissions of 119g/km of CO2, in the 9-3 saloon.
Saab claims the engine's new turbocharging system delivers the pulling power whenever you need it and the revised gearing improves economy without affecting acceleration or top speed.
The estate version, the SportWagon, delivers 61mpg and emissions of 122g/km, meaning tax will be £90 a year. The convertible will do 54.3mpg, 137g/km and cost £110 a year tax.
The new models also benefit from further upgrades - they now come with Bluetooth phone integration, heated front seats as standard, a 'change up' indicator for eco-driving, extra child seat anchorage points and, on top models, a perforated leather steering wheel. Two new colours are also available.
The new 9-3 is available to order through your local Saab dealer, although pricing is not yet available.