Saab launches Independence Edition of the 9-3 Convertible

Independence Day in Sweden celebrates both the coronation of King Gustav Vasa (1523) and conformation of their constitution (1809), both occurring coincidentally on June 6th, which is the day Swedes have been partying since 1916.  What does this have to do with Saab’s new 9-3 Independence Edition convertible? Nothing.

The 9-3 Independence Edition celebrates Saab’s liberation from American automotive giant, General Motors.  Dutch exotic car manufacturer, Spyker Cars, now owns Saab.  The 9-3 Independence is based on the top of the range Aero trim level with some unique features, including: Sunset Red (metallic orange) paint, black & silver 18” alloy wheels, parchment (off white) leather seats with an orange accent stripe, orange stitching on the sports steering wheel, an orange indicator needle on the boost gauge and assorted “Independence” interior badges and trim bits.

Power comes from the 9-3’s big brother, the 2.0-liter, 220 hp and 258 lb/ft of torque, direct injection turbo from the 9-5.  A 1.9-liter, 180 hp turbo diesel mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox will be available in Europe.  Saab will mate the petrol engine either a six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission.

Saab has put together an attractive, limited edition convertible with enough stylish details to make it feel quite special.  The 9-3 Independence Edition convertible is limited to 366 units world wide with about half the production run slated for the United States.  Pricing has not been announced, nor has the final choice of engine options for all markets.  The 9-3 Independence convertible will be available in the spring.