17/06/2004 - 9-3 Convertible takes Top Open Car Design Award

The Saab 9-3 Convertible, on display to the British public for the first time at the Sunday Times Live Motor Show, has won a major industry award.

The Institute of Vehicle Engineers (IVehE) has given its prestigious Sporting Open Top award to the stunning 9-3 Convertible with the citation: "Engineering judges who understand the special challenges of designing a good soft top car were impressed by the fine detail of the model and its well-tailored hood, putting it in first place."

Says Saab GB Managing Director Jonathan Nash: "This is excellent news. We will exceed our sales target for the 9-3 Convertible this year, and I am trying to get as many extra models as we can to satisfy the strong UK market demand."

The 35 IVehE judges made up of automotive design, engineering and manufacturing experts from the Institute's membership, assessed all the eligible vehicles from a pure design and quality standpoint, placing each vehicle in the context of its intended market sector.

:: The Saab 9-3 Convertible has added a stylish Scandinavian open top dimension to the exciting 9-3 range and represents the most significant advance Saab has made in two decades of designing four-seater, four season, soft tops.

It has advanced automatic soft top operation, a stiffened body structure and "DynaCage" rollover protection with pop-up roll bars. On-the-road prices start at £24,305.