Saab has become the only manufacturer in the UK to offer an alternative fuel engine choice in every model line-up, with the addition of a 1.8t BioPower engine for its 9-3 range.

Saab says the 1.8t BioPower engine emits 50-70% less carbon dioxide than its 1.8t petrol engine equivalent, yet produces 17% more maximum power and 10% more torque when running on the eco-friendly yet potent fuel source bioethanol E85.

It is the third BioPower engine to be launched in the UK. Two Saab 9-5 BioPower variants are already available, both offering reduced emissions.

Saab 9-3 BioPower models will be available with manual or automatic transmissions, and will go on sale with immediate effect in the UK and Ireland and other Nordic markets.

Sales in other European markets will commence later this year.

The full flex-fuel line-up will be displayed at Saab’s stand at the Geneva Motor Show next week.

Saab's entire flex-fuel range