Saab launched its all-new 9-5 (which replaced the 9000) and 9-3 (which replaced the 900) last spring but has made some midyear enhancements to performance and safety. It has also added the 9-5 wagon.

Saab has added an all-new 2.0-liter 200-horsepower high-output turbocharged engine to its line. It delivers maximum horsepower at 5500 rpm and strong low-end torque of 209 pound-feet at just 2300 rpm. This new engine comes as standard equipment on the SE five-door and SE convertibles equipped with manual transmissions. The 185-hp 2.0-liter

turbocharged engine is standard in all other 9-3 models.

The 9-5 adds a two-stage side airbag that protects both head and torso, as well as a new force-reducing front seat belt and pretensioner design that more gently stops an occupant's forward motion during a collision.

Rounding out its line, Saab will introduce a sporty wagon as a 1999 model late this spring. As with the 9-5 sedan, two engines will be available: a 3.0-liter V-6 asymmetrically turbocharged engine and a 2.3-liter four-cylinder light-pressure turbo. The V-6 is rated at 200 hp with maximum torque of 229 lb-ft. The four-cylinder is rated at 170 hp and maximum torque of 207 lb-ft. The rear cargo area will feature a sliding floor that can be rolled out almost 20 inches.