Report: Saab dropping 9-3 nameplate to draw heritage with new name

Saab’s fate has been very much in question as of late, especially since there’s been trouble with keeping the Swedish brand afloat and complications with parts from the Japan earthquake in March. But now, it seems like things are beginning to settle down for the brand born from jets.

Just recently, Saab announced that they might drop the 9-3 nameplate and resurrect a badge that draws heritage. The 9-3 is apparently getting an all-new replacement in 2013, however, very little is known about the entry-level replacement.

“There’s a chance we might move away from that,” said Tim Colbeck, president of Saab Cars North America. “Instead, the company may adopt a name for the 9-3’s successor that draws from the brand’s heritage, although no decisions about the name have been made.”

Saab will also be completing their complete model lineup update at the turn of the 2012 year. The 2012 Saab 9-4X crossover is currently on sale as a 2011 model will make its official debut in October. Other additions for the 2012 year include the latest versions of the Saab 9-5, which also includes an all-new 9-5 Sport Combi wagon. All of the latest models are expected to make a debut in October, said Colbeck.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: Automotive News