New 9-3 shows its face

This first official picture shows the firm's revised compact executive model, which will go on sale in the UK this autumn.

Set to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the 9-3 is new from the A-pillar forward. Follow­ing the trend set by the revamped 9-5, the entry-level Saab has a new appear­ance at the front, complete with plenty of chrome trim.

The fresh face was showcased on the Aero X concept unveiled at last year's Geneva exhibition. The car's rear has also been tweaked, with new lamps and a fresh bumper design. And the profile has been brought up to date with a smoother door shape.

Inside, there will be a few minor revisions, but it's under the bonnet where the most dramatic changes take place. The existing engine range will be carried over, but the 9-3 will also get a new high-powered diesel. This will be offered in conjunction with BioPower models that run on E85 bioethanol. The car's chassis isn't so cutting-edge, though. Its underpinnings are shared with the current Vauxhall Vectra, which could mean it struggles to stay on the pace in the competitive executive market. And with Ford's dynamically impressive Mondeo on sale next month, plus a new Vectra due next year, the Swedish machine could also come under fire from mainstream rivals.

Buyers in the UK have a choice of four aeronautical-inspired trim levels - Airflow, Linear SE, Vector Sport and Aero - and the revisions will appear on the saloon, estate and convertible bodystyles. After the 9-3 arrives, the smaller 9-1 will be introduced in 2008. This executive hatch will focus on style, and rival the BMW 1-Series and Volvo C30.