New Saab 9-3 Scheduled For 2013 Debut: Report

In the face of fears that it may not live long enough to finish the job, Saab has confirmed that its new 9-3 will hit international showrooms in early 2013.

Saab's new mid-sizer could arrive with a different name however - at least in the US market. According to US industry paper Automotive News, Saab Cars North America is considering a change.

"There's a chance we might move away from that," Colbeck said, adding that the new model may instead draw on Saab's history. No examples were offered, but Saab cars have almost always worn a '9' badge - tradition demands it.

As for styling, Colbeck says the new 9-3 will feature an "edgy" re-interpretation of past styling themes. The carmaker's design boss Jason Castriota has also described the recent Phoenix concept as a preview of things to come.

"The PhoeniX establishes a new reference point for the future of Saab product design," Castriota says. "It symbolizes a renaissance of the innovative spirit and passion that drove Saab to build its first car."

"We're now taking the visual DNA forward with what we call 'aeromotional' design, adding emotion, power and fluidity. This design aesthetic will shape and differentiate future models in the Saab portfolio."

Saab's 92 will also make a comeback. Despite its origins as the 9-3's predecessor, the new '9-2' will enter below the 9-3 as a new small car for the Swedish carmaker.

The report adds that Castriota and Saab CEO Victor Mueller are currently reviewing five designs for the 9-2. Mueller has said in the past that the new car will be heavily influenced by the original 92 of the 50s, offering a similar 'tear drop' style.