SAAB'S PUSH INTO THE LUCRATIVE prestige market will receive a serious boost next year with the arrival of this 900 coupe. A clever and inexpensive way of broadening Saabs model range, the coupe is basically a 900 convertible fitted with a pressed steel roof. Because the convertible bodyshell is already extensively reinforced, Saab engineers have been able to opt for a pillarless design . This is combined with frameless doors and side windows which can wind completely down into the bodysides. This gives it the potential to be completely opensided, like the outgoing Merc E-class coupe

The cash-strapped Swedes, however seem to have been unable to address the 900's biggest design failing: the ugly, truncated tail. The only attempt at prettification on the coupe snapped here is the reflector panel between the lights.

This coupe is part of a major revamp of the 900 range, which includes a new `family' nose for all models - Also under review by Saab engineers is the 900's Cavalier-derived chassis, which has been much-criticised since the car's launch in 1993. Sources say the company wants to make the chassis much more rigid, which will allow for a more supple ride and a significant reduction in understeer. 

Nearly four years old, the 900 is still selling much more slowly than established 'prestige' cars. In the first five months of this year across western Europe, the BMW 3-series outsold the 900 at a rate of 4.5 to one, as did the Audi A4.

Industry analysts expect next year's 9-3, as the revised 900 is tagged, to benefit from a `halo effect' after the introduction of the all-new 9-5 saloon, which should ensure that Saab is finally accepted as an upmarket manufacturer to rival the likes of Audi.

Another all-new Saab, the 9-5 estate will be unveiled next year. This means Saab will have competitive models in all the important prestige market sectors.