THE svelte Saab 9-3 Convertible has dominated premium soft-top sales in the UK for many years, establishing itself as an icon of automotive style.

For 2003, it becomes an even more attractive proposition.

Accounting for over one in three of all convertibles sold in the UK's premium segment last year, the Swedish soft-top has established Saab as a market leader in the art of building sunshine cars with a true all-year-round capability.

Now the Saab 9-3 Convertible provides a more colourful customer choice with the introduction of brighter interiors and more exterior colours.

The range can be tailored with a choice of six different leather interiors, 11 paint colours, four stylish facia panels and two roof colours. This is in addition to a powertrain selection of torquey, 150, 185 or 205 bhp, 2.0-litre turbocharged engines.

Top of the range is the 205 bhp Aero model, complete with integrated sports bodystyling, 17in alloy wheels and a unique-styled, sports leather interior.

A beige interior alternative, including electric sports leather seats, is offered in addition to the usual charcoal-coloured trim.

The appeal of the 9-3 SE Convertible variant, with 2.0t 150 bhp, or 2.0T 185 bhp engines, is broadened by offering a choice of four interior trims, together with the option of four different facia panels.

In addition to the charcoal and beige colour schemes, there are now interiors with two-tone seat inlays and door panels in black and red or charcoal and blue. These can be 'mixed and matched' with facia panels finished in walnut veneer, carbon fibre, titanium and teflon.

Externally, the introduction of Merlot Red a rich metallic colour Graphite Green metallic and solid Dolphin Grey, brings the colour palette to 11.

The triple layer, automatic roof can also be specified in black or blue.

The standard specification and pricing for the 2003 Saab 9-3 Convertible model and option range are held at 2002 levels.

Jonathan Nash, managing director of Saab Great Britain Limited, said: "Its continued popularity has turned the Saab Convertible into an almost timeless, modern classic. It has a winning combination of good looks and rugged 'four season, four seater' practicality, which is also excellent value."