SAAB is to launch fleet-only versions of its 9-3 and 9-5 models, offering user-choosers higher-spec cars at a lower price and with cheaper benefit-in-kind tax bills.

The Airflow range comes with added equipment and sportier styling at prices of up to £1,220 less than the entry-level Linear models on which they are based.

Airflow spec adds body-coloured door handles and sill covers, 17-inch alloy wheels (up from 15s on the Linear) and a rear spoiler. Extra equipment includes dual-zone climate control and an MP3-compatible CD player.

Prices for the 9-3 Airflow start at £17,985 for the 1.8-litre petrol, while the 9-5 range begins at £20,460. In the 9-3, the Airflow costs £975 less than the Linear, while the 9-5 is £1,220 less.

For a 40% taxpayer, the 9-3 1.9 TiD 120 Airflow will cost £1,421 a year in BIK tax, a saving of £227 over an Audi A4 1.9 TDI SE and £391 over a BMW 318d.

Paul Adler, brand manager – fleet, for Saab, said: ‘The Airflow range is tailored for business and gives us the lowest entry price in the premium sector, as well as giving drivers more for less.’