4.1.2006
Saab 9-3 SportCombi wins 2006 "Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year" award

Based on feedback from automotive journalists and elite and recreational athletes from across the United States, the Saab 9-3 SportCombi received the "2006 Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year" award in the best value, on-road category at the San Diego International Auto Show last week.

Presented by Active.com and Gen-A Network, creators of the Active Lifestyle Vehicles program (www.ActiveLifestyleVehicle.com), the award is designed to connect active consumers with auto manufacturers to create the ultimate vehicle for active lifestyles.

“Millions of active consumers visit Active.com to tap into the services and resources that will make participation easier and enhance their active lifestyles. These same consumers have similar needs in their personal vehicles,” explained Jim Woodman, senior vice president at Active.com.

The Active Lifestyle Vehicles program showcases the industry’s top vehicles for active lifestyle consumers. This year, San Diego athletes and a team of the nation’s leading automotive journalists test drove 16 finalists chosen from a field of 32 entries submitted by 14 auto manufacturers. Models were evaluated based on handling, cargo space and special active lifestyle features, including roof racks, bike transport and towing capability.

“The 9-3 SportCombi is a unique vehicle, designed and built in Sweden”, said Nina Russin, head of the automotive journalists jury and an accomplished marathon runner. “Longtime Saab aficionados will appreciate its peppy performance, user-friendly interior and Scandinavian design. Newcomers will love the SportCombi for its fun ride, class-leading safety and cargo-friendly interior – all for a price within the limits of many new car buyers.”

“We are extremely pleased with the Active Lifestyle Vehicle Award for the 9-3 SportCombi,” said Jay Spenchian, Saab USA general manager. “It is the third distinction that we have received for the 9-3 in a short timeframe. Earlier this month, the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan was the only luxury car honored with the ‘Gold Award’ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. In addition, the editorial staff of Ward’s Communications voted the new 2.8 V6 Turbo V6 in the 9-3 Aero one of their ’10 Best Engines’ for 2006.”