Spy Shots: 2008 Saab 9-3 facelift

Pictured here is the facelifted Saab 9-3 undergoing final testing ahead of its launch in roughly one month’s time. Though the changes to the car’s exterior seem minor, under the revised sheet metal it’s a totally different story. First up, Saab will be introducing an AWD system sourced from Haldex that’s rumoured to feature a new electronic differential. The new diff is said to be better suited at distributing force during slides and contributes to stabilizing the car around corners.

In addition to the new AWD system, Saab engineers have upgraded the turbo V6 engine, which is expected to output close to 300hp in the new Aero model. Visual enhancements include the new clear, vertically stacked taillights on the wagon model. Up front, the car picks up chrome highlights surrounding the headlamps and a new grille design inspired by Saab’s Aero X concept.

The launch date for the updated 9-3 is scheduled for mid may with official images set to be published by the first week. Check out the website of our Swedish friends over at Auto Motor & Sport magazine for more pics.

[Source: Auto Motor & Sport]