SAAB'S latest 9-3 saloon and estate range cost from £21,495 when it hit showrooms in 2011.

The facelifted models featured a pair of new petrol turbo engines, more standard kit, better performance and lower emissions.

The 9-3's fresh face and is distinguished by new front bumpers, 'ice block' headlamps and a new grille, while at the rear the word Saab replaces badging on the chrome trim and all saloon models get a boot-mounted spoiler.

Inside, a smarter cabin boasts titanium-effect trim around the instrument panel, gearshift moulding, doors and glovebox - SE models come with leather seats and Aero models add new graphite-fibre highlights.

Beneath the bonnet, the two new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines produce 163bhp and 220bhp, both being available with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The entry grade manual 2.0t 163 SE saloon will cost from £21,495 and emits 155g/km of CO2, while the £23,495 1.9 TTiD model - described as the 'most powerful sub 120g/km saloon and estate on sale in the UK' - produces 180bhp with 119g/km of emissions.

Saab also has strong claims for the £27,245 2.0-litre (220bhp) petrol version, calling it 'the most powerful sub 160g/km petrol saloon and estate on sale in the UK' with its 155g/km emissions.

Trim grades are SE and Aero and all cars come with alloy wheels, leather trimmed interior, heated front seats, park assist and Bluetooth phone integration system along with a host of safety systems including ESP, six airbags and Saab Active Head Restraints.

Auto dimming mirrors, electric folding mirrors and automatic rain sensor wipers are also standard, a customer saving of £400.