Three body styles are available: five-door hatchback, two-door convertible, and three-door hatchback. Saab has simplified the 9-3 lineup for 2002. The former base-model three-door and five-door hatchbacks are gone. So the lineup starts with SE trim.
SE trim is available as a 9-3 SE five-door ($27,995) and 9-3 convertible ($39,995). Both have been upgraded for 2002, with combination leather-and-textile seats and door panels.
Also new for 2002 is a Premium package ($1995) for the five-door SE, which adds automatic climate control, full leather upholstery, power front seats with driver's-side memory, sport suspension, sport steering wheel, and an upgraded audio system. A corresponding Sport package ($1495) for the SE convertible adds three-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport steering wheel, and a deck-lid spoiler.
Viggen rides at the top of the 9-3 line as the ultimate-performance model. The Viggen is offered in identically priced three-door ($38,095) and five door styles ($38,095), and as a convertible ($44,995). The Viggen is now the only 9-3 available in the three-door configuration. All Viggens are upholstered in black leather with contrasting inserts, and roll on aggressive 45-profile tires on 17-inch alloy wheels.
Two different turbocharged four-cylinder engines are available. SE models displace 2.0 liters and produce 205 horsepower. Buyers can choose a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Viggens wring 230-horsepower from 2.3-liters and, befitting their sporting status, come only with a five-speed manual.