JUST over a year ago it looked like the iconic Saab brand was on the verge of extinction.

But since being taken over by Dutch sports car company Spyker it has been revitalised and is now offering some exciting new products.

The latest 9-3 range has been given cutting-edge appeal. Saab engineers have honed its turbo diesel engines to deliver class-leading CO2 emissions of just 119g/km, with exceptionally low combined fuel consumption of 62.8mpg.

For private and fleet customers alike, it offers a frugal, tax-efficient solution that's also fun to drive.

9-3 prices start at £21,439 for the Turbo 1.8T and up to £30,507 for the Aero 2.0T XWD.

Saab sales are expected to grow still further this year with the introduction of the full new 9-5 saloon range which include a number of specification upgrades for the new 9-5 Vector SE models.

All Saab 9-5 Vector SE models are now fitted with leather trimmed seats as standard, replacing the previous leather and textile interior trim.  In addition, the 17-inch Blade alloy wheels are replaced with 18-inch alloy wheels, improving the aesthetic appeal of the car.

Saab has also made an important change to the chassis configuration for all 2.0-litre TiD 160bhp models equipped with manual transmission.

The previous sport chassis fitted as standard has now been replaced with a revised comfort chassis specification. This chassis change in combination with the change to 18in alloy wheels improves the overall dynamic behaviour of the vehicle.

Saab's new flagship model comes with choice of six turbocharged engines, ranging in power from 160 to 300bhp, with CO2 emissions as low as 139g/km.

Prices for the 9-5 range from £26,995 for the Vector SE 2.0 TiD to £38,585 for the Aero.