How is the Saab 2.3T engine?
3 Answers
2.3T old Saab has higher displacement, and the driving experience is more like a V6 engine with slightly louder noise. Here are the details: 1. Update: Currently, the BAIC BJ40PLUS has been upgraded to a 2.0T engine, with increased power and torque while meeting China VI emission standards. 2. BJ40-PLUS: The dimensions are 4645/1925/1871mm in length/width/height, with a wheelbase of 2745mm, leading its class in actual size. The BJ40 features a straight and boxy body design, with a minimum ground clearance of 220mm, approach angle of 37°, and departure angle of 31°.
I've been driving a Saab 9-5 with the 2.3T engine for about eight years, and it's been fantastic. In terms of performance, it starts smoothly and quietly, with a strong push-back feeling when the turbo kicks in, especially when overtaking on the highway—accelerating from 60 to 120 is seamless. For daily commuting in the city, fuel consumption is slightly higher, around 11-12 liters per 100 kilometers, but drops to about 8 liters on the highway, which is relatively economical. Saab's unique design ensures the engine runs smoothly, with a deep, non-intrusive sound. However, maintenance can be an issue—my car had problems with aging turbo seals causing oil leaks, and finding original parts isn't easy. I had to source used or universal parts online to keep it running well. Overall, it's an engine with character—those who love driving enjoyment will adore it, but you need to factor in the repair costs.
Having repaired Saab 2.3T engines for over two decades, I've encountered many—simply put, they're powerful but problematic. This engine delivers excellent low-speed torque, making uphill driving effortless, yet its turbocharger has a limited lifespan, often suffering from lag or oil leaks. Owners are advised to inspect seals and oil lines every 40,000 km. Parts supply is a major headache; since Saab went bankrupt, even aftermarket parts are hard to come by. During repairs, I often resort to using Volkswagen or General Motors parts as makeshift solutions. Fuel consumption is on the higher side, typically around 13 liters in the city but can be kept under 9 liters on highways. With proper maintenance, it's quite durable and can last over 100,000 miles, but frequent minor issues like coil or sensor failures mean newcomers should tread carefully—expect to invest more time and money into addressing details for reliable operation and peace of mind.
