Saab preps 9-3 BioPower for Geneva

With the introduction of the new 1.8t BioPower in Saab’s 9-3 line of cars, the Swedish carmaker’s entire range can now be optioned with flex-fuel drivetrains. The new model range will make its debut at next week’s Geneva Motor Show, including the Sport Saloon, Sport Wagon and Convertible. The 1.8t BioPower engine emits 50-70% less carbon dioxide (CO2) than its 1.8t petrol engine equivalent, yet produces 17% more power and 10% more torque when running on the eco-friendly E85 fuel.

The cars will be available with manual or automatic transmissions and will go on sale in the UK soon after its Geneva Debut, with sales across the rest of Europe scheduled to start later this year. There’s no word on which other markets will get the new flex-fuel models.

The turbocharged and intercooled engine produces 175hp (129kW) at 5500rpm and peak torque of 265Nm from as low as 2500rpm up to 4000rpm. The 0 – 100km/h time takes 8.4 seconds for the manual 9-3 Sport Saloon, while top speed is 137mph.