New car roadtest - Saab 9-3 Convertible Cerulean Edition Range

IT is now 20 years since Saab first launched their four-seater convertible based on the Saab 900 turbo.

From this originally limited production of just 400 vehicles for the American market, they have now sold more than 240,000 Saab convertibles in the subsequent period.

To celebrate this achievement, Saab have launched the 9-3 Cerulean Edition that we look at here.

Available in Vector and Aero specifications, this anniversary model is distinguished by a unique blue metallic paint finish and is offered with a full choice of engines.

These include the much-acclaimed 150,175 and 210bhp turbocharged petrol engines along with the recently introduced 150bhp 1.9-litre TID turbo diesel. The high performance 250bhp 2.8-litre V6 turbo combined with a lowered sports-tuned chassis is also available but only with the Aero variant.

All the engines are familiar fare from the current 9-3 Sports Saloon line-up and all are tough, punchy powerplants. The 210bhp model manages a 7.7-second 0-60mph time and a 143mph top speed.

The specification of the new Cerulean convertible adds £775 to the on-the-road price of the Vector models and £625 to the price of the Aero models.

For that, you get colour-keyed blue for the tonneau cover, door trims and door handles, 17-inch double spoke alloy wheels and a parchment leather sports interior with pale blue upholstery trim inserts.

Aero customers also get a coloured-keyed rear lip spoiler which is also optional for Vector customers.

The 9-3 Convertible has come a long way over the last two decades and has developed into a market leader for four-seater convertibles. The Cerulean Edition shows you why.

FASTFACTS

CAR: Saab 9-3 Convertible Cerulean Edition range

PRICES: £27,979-£33,514 - on the road

INSURANCE GROUPS: 14-17

CO2 EMISSIONS: 206-235g/km

PERFORMANCE: (2.0T Aero) Max Speed 143mph / 0-60mph 7.7s

FUEL CONSUMPTION: (2.0T Aero) (urban) 23.2mpg / (extra urban) 38.7mpg / (combined) 31.0mpg

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front & side airbags, Active Head Restraints, ABS, DynaCage, integrated front seat belts

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height 4635/2038/1435mm