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Saab Announces Best January Sales Since 1987

2 February 1999

Saab Announces Best January Sales Since 1987

  Sales Surge 194%, Driven by Strong Increases in Both 9-3 and 9-5 Model Lines

    NORCROSS, Ga., Feb. 1 -- Saab Cars USA, Inc., the U.S.
importer and distributor of Saab 9-3 and 9-5 automobiles, announced sales of
2,774 units during January 1999, a hefty 194% increase over January 1998
(945 units sold). This represents the best January Saab and its 215 U.S.
retailers have enjoyed since 1987.
    Strong consumer interest in both the new-for-1999 Saab 9-3 and 9-5 model
lines contributed to the record sales. Saab 9-3 sales increased 52% over
January 1998 with 1,225 units retailed versus 806 Saab 900 models sold last
year. Increasing availability of the Saab 9-5 V6 luxury sedan, as well as
continued momentum of 9-5 four-cylinder sales combined for 1,514 units sold,
versus 138 Saab 9000s sold during January 1998.
    Despite inclement January weather in many of Saab's major markets, Saab
9-3 Convertible sales more than doubled over last year. Saab dealers delivered
434 of Saab's all-season soft-top, a 119% increase over January 1998
(198 units sold). Saab 9-3 Convertible sales were boosted in part by continued
retail network growth in important sunbelt markets, including Tampa, Orlando,
West Palm Beach, Atlanta, Houston and greater Los Angeles, where either new
dealerships or additional sales points opened recently.
    "We've forecast solid growth for the Saab brand in 1999, and January gives
us an excellent foundation for achieving our aggressive objectives," said John
Orth, vp, sales and marketing, Saab Cars USA. "We are especially pleased at
the enthusiastic reception customers have given to our new model line, the
Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5, in the many markets where new dealers are representing
Saab, or where existing dealers have renewed their focus on our brand."
    Saab Cars USA, Inc. is headquartered in Norcross, GA, near Atlanta.