Saab thunderbolts hit market

The Saab Viggen, the lickety-split tourer from Sweden, has been given more power as part of model upgrade.

The boost in output from the 2.3-litre turbocharged engine pushes power from 165 to 169kW at 5500 rpm and torque from 342 to 350Nm from 2500 through to 4000 rpm.

The upgrade to the sedan, coupe and convertible includes a black exterior and a black/flame ochre interior. The range is equipped only with a five-speed manual transmission.

The change brings new prices, with the coupe costing $95,700, the sedan $97,700 and the convertible $118,600.

But the car is not for everyone. "Nor is it designed to be," said Saab Australia manager Tony Jennett.

"Viggen is unique, bordering on brash in its appeal.

"However, the availability of the sedan bodystyle and interior will create added interest in Viggen."

Viggen is Swedish for "thunderbolt" and the name of Saab's Mach 2 jet fighter plane.

Saab says the car provides V8 power without the weight, fuel concumption, emission and handling penalties.

The Viggen sprints to 100 km/h in 6.8 sec and has a governed top speed of 250 km/h. Saab says its aerodynamic body kit cuts lift forces by 50 per cent and reduces drag co-efficient by 8 per cent.

Standard equipment includes leather interior, power-operated sports seats, climate control, sunroof, 160-Watt sound system with six-stack CD, cruise control and an engine immobiliser.

Saab doesn't skip on safety and never has. Equipment includes the latest ABS anti-lock brakes, front and side airbags, the award-winning Active Head Restraints and a body structure with the carmaker's safety cage.