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Stage 1 ยท Petrol

Saab 9-3 (MK2) 2004-2009 1.8i 120bhp remap figures

The Saab 9-3 1.8i 120bhp (2004-2009) is a petrol 1.8L model making 120bhp and 167Nm as standard. After a Stage 1 ECU remap we expect 135bhp and 185Nm - up to 15bhp and 18Nm more than stock.

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Stage 1 remap figures

A Stage 1 remap is a software-only change to the ECU on an otherwise standard car. It needs no extra parts, which makes it the usual starting point.

StockVanguard expectedExpected gain, up to
Power120 bhp135 bhp+15 bhp
Torque167 Nm185 Nm+18 Nm

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All maps at a glance

MapPowerTorqueExpected gain, up to
Stock120 bhp167 Nm
Stage 1Maximum software-only performance135 bhp185 Nm+15 bhp
+18 Nm
Stage 1 EcoPerformance with economy in mind131 bhp184 Nm+11 bhp
+17 Nm
Eco mapEconomy first130 bhp183 Nm+10 bhp
+16 Nm

Who is the Stage 1 map for?

  • Drivers who want a sharper throttle and a small, honest gain from software alone.
  • Owners who would rather keep the car standard in every other way.
  • Anyone who wants the fullest software-only map for this engine, accepting that the gain is modest without a turbocharger.

What this means for your 9-3

Without a turbocharger the improvement comes from ignition, fuelling and throttle mapping rather than boost, so expect a smaller but still noticeable change in response.

This car is listed with a Siemens Simtec 70/71/75 engine control unit. Older engine management is simpler to work with, but age matters: worn sensors, leaks and tired components can hold back what a remap delivers, which is why we run a diagnostic check first.

We remap at our Belgrave Gate workshop in Leicester, or at your home or work within 30 miles, and every job starts with a diagnostic check.

Please note: these are expected figures, not guarantees. Real results vary with the condition of the vehicle, the ECU software version, fuel quality and the hardware fitted. Some options - including Stage 2 and anything that needs extra hardware - are for off-road or competition use only. We check every vehicle first and confirm what is achievable before any work starts.

Figures reviewed 22 October 2026.

Stage 1 questions

How much power does the Stage 1 map give the Saab 9-3 1.8i 120bhp?

We expect 135bhp and 185Nm against 120bhp and 167Nm as standard: up to +15bhp and +18Nm. These are expected figures, and we confirm what is achievable on your own car after a diagnostic check.

Does a Stage 1 remap need any extra parts on the Saab 9-3 1.8i 120bhp?

No. Stage 1 is a software-only change to the ECU on an otherwise standard car.

Is there a gentler map than Stage 1 for this engine?

Yes, two. Stage 1 Eco is performance with economy in mind: 131bhp and 184Nm expected. The Eco map is economy first: 130bhp and 183Nm. Both still sit above the standard 120bhp and 167Nm.

Do I need to tell my insurer about a remap?

Yes. A remap is a modification, so you should declare it to your insurer.