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The newly designed 2007 Saab 9-3 Aero confidently joins an increasingly visible vehicle segment.

Matched primarily against the Acura TSX, Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series, the Saab showcases high-end features with Scandinavian styling and at a less-than-exorbitant price.

My weekly driver was one of three 9-3 configurations (sedan, wagon, convertible) and six total available models. It featured a 2.8-liter, 24-valve turbocharged V6 with 250 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability.

With the exception of slight turbo lag, the Saab 9-3 performs well, accelerating strongly at all speed ranges (the manufacturer rates it at 6.6 seconds in the standard 0-60 mph test with its automatic transmission). It also has a taut suspension and a firm, poised ride.

Saab's exterior design and color (Fusion Blue Metallic) prompted a good share of attention. Saab is owned by General Motors (GM) (since 2000) and the 9-3 shares its basic construction with the Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6. The new owners have softened the Saab look, but it still has its signature — an appealing combination of refinement and ruggedness.

The ignition, for example, is between the seats, and car's key is s plastic fob, with a  pullout back-up key. Saab also features a cleanly designed hand brake mechanism. When the brake is engaged, it rises only slightly on the driver's side of the console. When the brake is released, its fits flush into the console.

The Saab 9-3 has a manual transmission as standard equipment and the automatic transmission ($1,350) is the starting point for several available, pricey additional charges and option packages.

The extra charges, option packages and destination fee ($745) adds more than $5,000 to the base price, pushing the total to more than $37,000.

That doesn't make the new Saab 9-3 a bargain. But considering the vehicle's new styling and improved turbo-charged-infused performance, it could provide strong competition against the more well-known stalwarts offered by BMW and Audi in the entry level luxury car division.

Saab 9-3 Aero, 2007: Facts & Figures: Safety — Driver and front-seat passenger dual front, torso side and side curtain airbags; Fuel Mileage (estimates) — 17 mpg (city),  28 mpg (highway); Warranty — Bumper to bumper, 4 years/50,000 miles;  Free Scheduled Maintenance, 3 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 5 years/100,000 miles, Corrosion, 6 years/unlimited miles; Roadside (24-hour) assistance program, 4 years/50,000 miles; Base Price — $32,625.00.