2006 Saab 9-3 SportCombi

Saab fills outs its highest-volume model line for 2006 by adding the new 9-3 SportCombi crossover wagon alongside the existing Convertible and Sedan models. Like the other 9-3 variants, the SportCombi rides on a Saab-spec front-drive version of GM's Epsilon platform and is available in 2.0T and Aero trims. The former uses a turbocharged I-4 engine, the latter a T-charged V-6.

From its B-pillar forward, the SportCombi is pure 9-3 Sedan. From there back, this high-styled hauler melds a sweeping roofline, distinctive greenhouse shape, and unique "ice light" LCD rear lamps into a signature look with a unique Swedish accent that nets a very respectable 0.33 Cd number and zero aerodynamic lift at both the front and rear axles. All SportCombis have all-season tires on alloy wheels, the 2.0T getting 215/55HR16s and the Aero variants we drove wearing V-rated 235/45 boots on 17-inch rims.

The SportCombi maintains basic 9-3 design cues inside, as well. Its white-on-black gauges are easy to read and main function controls are easy to reach, but the center stack is still a button-rich field where a phalanx of switchgear for the sound and dual-zone climate control systems is visually overwhelming, with or without the optional navigation system and its 5.8-inch color LCD screen. A leather-wrapped three-spoke wheel--aluminum trimmed in Aero models--with fingertip controls for the "infotainment" system caps the SportCombi's tilt/telescoping steering column. The ignition switch is in its classic Saab floor-mount position, alongside a cleverly integrated handbrake lever that forms the left margin rail of the center console.

Other SportCombi amenities include power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, keyless remote entry, an auxiliary audio input jack, and a seven-speaker/150-watt AM/FM/CD stereo (2.0T) or 13-speaker/300-watt system with six-disc CD changer (Aero). A non-locking--but air-conditioned--glovebox, console cubbies, a covered center bin, and pockets in each door provide stow space for smaller objects. Cupholders consist of a usable one in the front console, a useless pop-out unit in the dash, and two marginal rear-mounts that deploy from the front of the lower seat cushion. Three 12V powerpoints -- in the lower instrument panel, front console, and cargo area -- complete the picture.

The SportCombi seats--particularly the firmish but well-formed and highly adjustable front buckets--are made for long-distance cruising. The Aero gets dual eight-way power seats, but only the driver's side gets standard electrical assist in the 2.0T. Its sedan-like rear accommodations include a 60/40 split bench seat that's belted for three but best suited for two average-sized adults. Each element flips forward at the pull of a lever to create a nearly flat floor and raise cargo space from 29.7 cu ft to a max of 72.3, all easily accessible via a large, one-piece aluminum hatch with bumper-level cutout. Four tie-down loops, a retractable cargo cover, and extra storage in a hidden sub-floor recess add even more utility.