The financial lifeline has come from Chinese car makers Pang Da and Youngman, and follows months of wrangling.
The news has kick-started long-dormant plans to replace the top-selling 9-3 and launch a new 9-1, aimed at the MINI and Audi A1.
According to official company documents, there are plans for three and five-door versions of the 9-1. Saab also wants to build a large SUV called the 9-7, and plans to bring the 9-4X SUV to the UK have also been revived.
Our image of the new 9-3 shows what owners can expect from the model that’s tipped to become a top seller for the brand. It first surfaced on a Swedish website that had intercepted a copy of Saab’s business presentation to the European Investment Bank in January this year.
The new 9-3 is expected to launch towards the end of next year and will come with a variety of petrol and diesel engines, as well as a choice of manual and automatic gearboxes. At least one of the planned engines – a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol – will come from BMW.
The newcomer is based on an all-new chassis, which was developed independently of Saab’s previous owner General Motors. Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive hybrid versions will be available.
Inside, Saab will debut its advanced IQon infotainment system, which uses Google’s Android operating software to provide sat-nav and audio.
This system will also allow users to access their E-mails and download apps that deliver online content on the move.
The new 9-3’s striking looks are clearly inspired by the PhoeniX concept that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, but also take cues from the larger 9-5.
That means there’s a greater focus on giving the car a sporty look, with boldly defined wheel arches, turbine-style alloy wheels and a coupe-like roofline.
The biggest changes can be seen at the rear of the car, which gets a curvier design than its predecessors, with stylish, narrow tail-lamps.
Designed by American Jason Castriota, the 9-3 is described by insiders as a “sportcombi”. Auto Express understands this means the car will be a five-door hatchback, rather than a four-door saloon.
It will offer seating for five adults, plus a practical boot and spacious cabin. Previously, Saab has admitted it was planning estate and convertible versions, and it’s understood that these are still under development.
For an alternative review of the latest Saab 9-3 visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk
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