2012 Saab 9-4X Review

The new Saab 9-4X will bring a unique design and the values ​​of growth medium-sized crossover segment. Scandinavian and distinctive look inspired air, but also offers a similar car handling and driving characteristics, which challenge the criteria of the class.

Making its world premiere at Auto Show 2010 Los Angles, product portfolio of the Saab 9-4X is expanded to three cars and lines give a fresh, alternative choice for buyers of crossover independent-minded. This is an important step in the rebirth of the Swedish brand as a premium car manufacturer independent.

Muscular and sporty to drive, is the Saab 9-4X looks and adjusted in size between 9-3X and do it all new Saab 9-5 sedan. Exterior and interior, it communicates with its own identity Saab, clean design and signature motifs, such as its wraparound windshield because the theme of light ice blocks, the driver-oriented cockpit and flexible handling .
 

2012 Saab 9-4X

In true Saab tradition, the 9-4X offers its sporty personality. It is configured around a single intersection, specially designed body structure, which was the key to delivering its exceptional handling characteristics and ride. Car-like driving dynamics are consistent with Saab all-wheel drive system advances, Saab XWD, the chassis and DriveSense adaptive control.

Under the hood, put a selection of compact and efficient V6 engines, naturally aspirated or turbocharged. The 265 HP, 3.0-liter entry-level model is equipped with direct injection and variable valve timing, while the 300 hp 2.8-liter direct injection for the twin-scroll turbo exchanges and is exclusive high-end Aero variants. Both engines are mated to six-speed automatic under adaptive electronic control.

"The Saab 9-4X significantly expands the appeal of the Saab brand," said CEO of Saab Automobile Jan Åke Jonsson. "It gives us entry into the crossover segment of rapid growth with a vehicle that reflects our brand values ​​in key areas such as progressive Scandinavian design and the manager sporty driving performance. The Saab 9-4X is an interesting package and we sure will be of interest to many owners of Saab, as well as attract new customers to the brand. "

Saab 9-4X will be available in North America in May 2011, with sales in Europe and other global markets due to begin in August. Pricing will be announced shortly before the sale begins.

Body sculpted by Saab

Saab 9-4X cuts a wide stance and powerful, with clean lines and neat Scandinavian design ethos that ECHO Saab. Its distinctive face, the new 9-5 sedan common uses the award-winning Aero X concept, with a deep, three-port grille and the "ice-block 'lighting themes effect.

Masked the windscreen pillars and door to create a Saab-signature surrounding the impact of a greenhouse, a graph shows the traditional look of the brand "cockpit". Other external identifiers are the headlights Saab design "hockey stick" around the waist, and strong C-pillars, to integrate the environment-effect door mirrors.

The roofline is visually lowered and extended by a spoiler integrated into the tailgate. Rear door light rather than a signature created by the new 9-5 sedan. A bar of "ice block" LED lit covers the bottom of the tailgate and wraps around the light units. Double diamond exhaust is also fully integrated into the molding of the bumper lower.

Overall, Saab 9-4X is the body is substantially free of unnecessary decoration or trim. A dark applied protection is used on the lower body, but there is no wheel arch liners or body protection.

Entry-level variants are equipped with alloy wheels, six-spoke 18-inch and Aero models are distinguished by nine 20-inch wheels "turbine" alloy, and a black mesh front grille.
 

2012 Saab 9-4X interior

The cockpit-inspired cabin

The spacious cab provides comfortable accommodation for up to five adults and is defined by a Saab signature, driver-focused cockpit layout. The center console, center console and the instrument screen is presented in a simple form that sweeps around the driver. The Saab 9-4X is the wood or finish, for interior Aero, a plate of carbon effect.

Other subtle references to Saab's aviation heritage are selected, installed air-style high-speed, light green needles of the three will be selected and the traditional Saab "joystick" controls for jersey-style air vents. Sparks - Start / stop - is, of course, between the front seats, genuine Saab tradition, next to the gear lever.

Grand, head of support include a standard 8-way power adjustable driver and an optional electric adjustment on the pedals. Rear passengers enjoy special spacious rear compartment is not compromised by the presence of a third row of seats. They also have the advantage of an independent, three-way adjustment of the rake of each manual 60/40 split-folding.

Includes a large storage pocket with two floors in all ports, a dual glove box front and a deep center console bin, 12 volt, USB and AUX. Rear passengers have more space behind the front center console and center armrest.

Information and entertainment includes two audio options, speaker or seven high-end 10-speaker Bose 5.1 surround sound. Option 8-inch touch screen, hard drive navigation system includes an aerial view of the card and 10 GB of storage for 'jukebox' music files. Communication on the march is supported by a system of integrated hands-free Bluetooth phone, which works through voice control, steering wheel and dashboard and entertainment.

The rear passengers can enjoy the independent air conditioning, in addition to the standard dual-zone, and to choose their own built-in audio / visual entertainment via a dedicated unit at the rear of the center console. This is an auxiliary video input and two 8-inch screens on the back of the front seat.
 

2012 Saab 9-4X

Adaptable Load

The trunk of the Saab 9-4X is optimized for space and ease of use. The seatbacks fold 60/40 split with a single motion, without moving the seat cushions or remove the headrests folding, providing a platform completely flat load.

The front plane of the frame is hinged and can be opened through the air to form a handle to reveal more storage under the floor. The surface can be adjusted as required by a voluntary, U-shaped track with a load by dividing the telescopic rail, which can be transferred to the desired position to hold items in place.

For added convenience, the tailgate is available in Remote-controlled hydraulic operation. It can be opened completely, or below, the programmable unit if you have limited space above a garage.

Moving

The Saab 9-4X offers car-like handling qualities and turn the crossover segment. Evidence of extensive development of vehicles that compete with the Saab 9-4X shows a level of dynamic performance - racing in the refinement and handling - that challenges the best in its class ..

The key to a great ride is a unique body structure, designed to compromise the application of crossover, and a free adaptation of a sedan or wagon form.

Advanced technologies to drive the Saab XWD, a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, which is infinitely variable torque front and rear. This is the system of prevention, lightweight and fast-acting provides optimum traction in all conditions, wet or dry, soft or loose, road or terrain. E 'connected to an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD), which can transfer up to 50% rear torque between the rear wheels, depending on which has more grip

Driver and the vehicle has approached Aero Saab DriveSense further, a function that uses the adaptive chassis control buffer in real time to help respond to the Saab 9-4X in the way you draw and changing conditions the road. Besides the definition of "smart" by default, the driver can select "Comfort" modes and "Sport". An "Eco" mode, activated by a separate button, also re-maps the throttle shifting and computer models for optimum fuel economy.

Among the other driver aids variable effort steering, a function of the sense Saab unit, and standard bi-xenon adaptive lighting, which offers a better combination of light curves in the direction of the future orientation angle of the beam projectors.

Efficient power supply

The engine range includes two effective until all aluminum V6 engines, both with a six-speed automatic transmission and Saab XWD. These lightweight and compact 24-valve engines have variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust sides, and the ability to boast typical power cylinders.

A 265 HP (195 kW) 3.0-liter naturally aspirated engine of the entry level specification includes direct fuel injection. That the powers of the Saab 9-4X from zero to 100 km / h in just 9.0 seconds.

Available exclusively in Aero specification, packages turbocharged 2.8-liter 300 hp (221 kW) and generates an impressive 400 Nm of torque spread between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. It offers zero to 100 km / h in 8.3 seconds. The consumption figures for both engines are being finalized.

Main levels of security

To integrate excellent safety performance, and the Saab 9-4X benefits for more than 50 years of experience working with Saab's passenger safety. Saab crash testing and computer simulations are based on what is really going on collision, your real. Many of the tests developed by Saab in the house are above the law or try to organize a consumer organizations.

The success of the work is reflected in Saab's Collision Investigation of real-life U.S. Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) and the Swedish insurance company Folksam Saab, who have always worked well on several occasions to be ranked in segment. The Saab 9-3 sedan and the new 9.5 is also a maximum five star EuroNCAP crash test performers.

2011 Saab Concept Phoenix

Elegant, innovative and highly effective: the Saab Concept Car PhoeniX presents the design features and technologies that will shape the next generation of Saab cars.

Based on a new architecture that will enable the next Saab 9-3, Saab introduced 'aeromotional' Phoenix Design: A visual evocation of the principles of aerodynamic design and a passion for innovation that inspired the creators of the first car Saab Ursaab iconic.

Phoenix Saab embraces the drop, "liquid metal" forms and the canopy jet drama inspired by the greenhouse, which is to give fresh expression signature "curve" and translucent ice block Saab design themes.
 

2011 Saab Concept Phoenix

Lean, muscular shape allows exceptionally low coefficient of resistance, only 0.25 and are also examining the management of air flow through the distinctive lateral "winglets".

Butterfly doors open easily to give 2 +2 cabin that combines the simplicity of the technique. This is a minimalist, "stripped" feeling, including a new expression of Saab's driver focused on the layout and the debut of the show IQon innovative Saab and communication system. In true Saab tradition also has a surprisingly different cargo deck.

"Phoenix creates a new framework for the future of Saab design the product," says Jason Castriota, Executive Director of Design at Saab Automobile. "It symbolizes the rebirth of an innovative spirit and passion that drove the Saab to build its first car. We are introducing a DNA of vision in front of what we call" aeromotional "design, increasing the feeling of strength and softness. This design shape and differentiation of the portfolio of future models of Saab. "

During her undulating body, install innovative Phoenix Saab engines with an electric rear axle combined with a sophisticated 200 hp, the 1.6-liter gasoline turbo. The result is an intelligent hybrid four-wheel drive capability, which increases driving pleasure while reducing fuel consumption. Combined fuel economy and CO2 emissions are projected cycle of only 5.0 l/100 km and 119 g / km.
 

2011 Saab Concept Phoenix

The design Aeromotional

Phoenix Saab theme "aeromotional" was inspired by Saab's aviation roots and draws a Ursaab clause, a prototype designed by engineers from the air that has created the first generation of Saab cars.

Complete Concept Saab Phoenix is ​​apparently shaped by the wind. Closely-rich liquid as the skin, dark hole, remember to drop the ice wedges, and seems to explode from the center of the well-muscled body. Two large waves to flow along the hood of the windscreen pillars veiled, as if barely able to contain a strong structure below.

At the rear, so the black screen bursts through the outer skin of the rear tires, the conical shape suggests teardrop style rear Ursaab, while "sawed off" Kamm tail echoes a form from the first Saab convertible, the Sonett.

The low front style has a strained interpretation of the Saab signature three-port grille. A central wing body color is now dominant, according to the minimalist design of the car, LED headlights are almost invisible on the end. The new grille and hood forms are among the topics like you see in the future production model Saab.

The opening of the butterfly doors provide better access to the cabin floor. No door handles and mirrors to interrupt the air visible, and thin stems, small chambers offer a glimpse back.

On the roof "winglets" allows Saab Concept Phoenix, which cleaves the air as efficiently as possible. They channel the airflow side of the machine and directly above the shelf, reducing the lift for greater stability without increasing resistance.

Minimalist Interior

In true Scandinavian tradition, adopts the 2 +2 cabin in a clean, minimalist look. It has "removed" feeling of a racing car, with shell seats and metallic interior sections that mimic the grid presented in a roll cage.

Fresh look is Saab's traditional, driver focused on the layout tool. Round-shaped pod in front of the driver is equipped with a jet engine afterburner, which is in the data alongside the Head-Up Display.

An angle of 45 degrees to the driver, a separate module houses the Saab Infotainment IQON and advanced communications. For good ergonomics, the 8-inch touch screen is the closest to the fingertips of the driver and the steering wheel.

Saab IQON (see separate release for the details) is a revolutionary platform vehicle communication using Google's operating system AndroidTM. Based on the pioneering "open innovation" with the third party service providers and application developers, which includes an integrated platform that seamlessly connects to the Internet when the engine is running. The touch screen allows access to entertainment and audio streaming, online browsing, storing music on board and as a smartphone application downloads.

Red illumination for all instruments and ambient lighting of the passenger brings warmth and emotion to the cabin. This includes ground, where the light pipes are exposed through the perforations in the black blankets. It's all part of the new "design strategy involving fire and ice aeromotional" effect.

The Phoenix Bridge Saab concept disguises a rounded rear tailgate open at depth. Provides access to a flat load platform, including folding rear and a track to load cargo adaptable.
 

2011 Saab Concept Phoenix interior

Efficient propulsion

During its sculpted hood and under the loading deck, Phoenix Saab Concept Saab's rightsizing strategy powertrain progress. Its propulsion system combines a highly efficient 1.6-liter turbo engine with an innovative electric drive to rear wheels.

The compact engine, gasoline contains all aluminum 200 hp (147 kW) and includes variable valve timing and lift control and functionality to start / stop, minimum parasitic losses and fuel cut-off function. A stainless steel tank equipped, which is lighter and less expensive than conventional plastic design,

The engine is backed by Saab eXWD innovative system. It consists of a housing of the drive unit behind a 25 kW (34 hp) electric motor / generator powered by a small battery. Braking is used to maintain the battery charge.

Currently in development for the next generation of Saab cars, the hybrid propulsion system allows the benefits of traction and reduces fuel consumption. Using a six-speed manual transmission, economy projected combined fuel cycle and CO2 emissions are just 5.0 l/100 km and 119 g / km.

The driver can choose one of three eXWD use of space. The default mode the exact fuel efficiency and CO2 to reduce the burden of steering the gasoline engine at low speeds, the Sport mode includes a maximum power of the rear axle torque vectoring on a larger scale and how the traction control allows an excellent take-off tires and the slippery conditions.

Inside and out, the Phoenix Saab introduces the new design directions and technologies that are part of the future Saab products.

New Saab 9-4X SUV Arrives in the US, First Model Delivered in Ohio

Saab is still trying to work through its problems, but the Swedish carmaker has some good news from the States. The first examples of the firm�s new crossover, the Cadillac SRX-based 9-4X, have just arrived at US showrooms.
�Our first vehicles are just hitting retailers and our first customer sale took place last weekend at Saab North Olmstead in Cleveland, Ohio� said President and COO of Saab Cars North America, Tim Colbeck.

EIB Approves Lease of Saab�s Real Estate

The European Investment Bank has finally approved the lease of 50.1% of Saab Automobile�s property to a Swedish Consortium led by Hemfrosa Fastigheter AB for a period of 15 years. The deal is expected to net Saab Automobile 25 million Euros ($41 million).

Saab Finalizes Deal with Panga Da and Youngman, Announces New 9-1, 9-6X and 9-7

Saab�s parent company Swedish Automobile NV said on Monday it converted the non-binding memorandum of understanding with Pang Da Automobile Trade Co. and Zhejiang Youngman Lotus Automobile Co into a final agreement. However, the deal is still subject to regulatory approval from Chinese and Swedish authorities as well as the European Investment Bank.
In addition to the above agreement, Saab announced the formation of a Sweden-based joint venture company between itself and Youngman called NPJV, which will focus on the development of three new product models.

Saab Catherina

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The Saab Catherina is a 1964 ancestor sports car, commissioned by the Swedish automaker Saab, advised by Sixten Sason and fabricated at the workshops of the Aktiebolaget Svenska J�rnv�gsverkst�derna (ASJ - the Swedish Railroad Works) in Katrineholm, Sweden (hence the name). It is a red, two-seat sports car with a targa top.Sason, who was alive as a contributor for Saab, fabricated some assets of a baby sports coup� in the aboriginal 1960s. As Saab was planning to acquaint a sports car model, the aggregation commissioned him to accept the architecture for accumulation production.[1] The activity began in January 1963 and in May the accumulation of the ancestor started at the ASJ. The ancestor was aboriginal displayed, however, alone on 24 April 1965, at the Link�ping Sports Centre.

More Good News for Saab as Swedes Receive �25 Million Loan

Another day, another new story for Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget �or, as you might know it, Saab. The Swedish company announced on Wednesday that it has entered a �25 million convertible bridge loan from Gemini Investment Fund Limited.
The loan�s annual interest is 10% and the conversion price is �1.38 per share, while Saab can at any time repay the loan, presumably when the expected Pang Da and Youngman Lotus funding is received, without a penalty.

Saab Secures Further Funding by Leasing its Property

Another day, another chapter in the ongoing saga that is the survival of Saab. After yesterday�s order from a (yet unnamed) Chinese company, which temporarily solved its cash-flow problem, today the automaker announced that it has reached an agreement with a consortium of Swedish real investors led by Hemfosa Fastigheter AB, for the sale of 50.1% of Saab Property for a period of 15 years.

New Chinese Order Provides Saab with a Temporary Lifeline

Maybe the future of Saab isn�t as dark as it looks, and the voluntary bankruptcy proposed by suppliers isn�t the only solution. Well, at least for now. That�s because the Swedish automaker announced today that an unnamed Chinese company place an order to buy 582 cars, with a total value of � 13 million.
The pre-payment is to be received this week, giving Saab a much needed funding to pay its workers and suppliers. This, however, is only a short-term lifeline for the ailing company and the efforts to secure funds that will guarantee the brand�s future and restart production, which has been halted again since June 8, are ongoing.

2011 Saab 9-3 Sedan

2011 Saab 9-3 Sedan Review

The Swedish word for roller-coaster is "Berg-and-Dalban," which is a great way to describe the last two years for Saab. The brand was intended to be sold by parent company General Motors, but the transaction failed . GM was ready to completely remove the cap on Saab, but then the Dutch supercar manufacturer Spyker is an 11th hour of leisure. Spyker is now promising a bright future, which implies a completely new range of cars backed by a brand new Saab 9-3.

 

Unfortunately, this new car is much less than a year, and 2011 Saab 9-3, you can buy today is just the eighth year in a car that has never been so impressive to begin with. Among the luxury cars are entry-level 9-3 is one revolution of aging Epcot in a compartment full of really cool-and-Dalban Berg.

For 2011, Saab 9-3 has a 210-hp turbocharged four-cylinder as the only engine offered, most of its competitors offer stronger performance and / or update the engine of some sort. Its interior is an important step in the competition and lacks many electronic functions that have become de rigueur in recent years. There is no interface for iPod, for example, Bluetooth and comes with the OnStar telematics as an option. Despite the leather and wood trim standard, just 9-3 does not feel like the price of luxury cars offer.

If there is a bright spot, is a tank wagon with its unique design, generous cargo space, and the 9-3X with the pretext of higher ground clearance. Aero Wagon in the lining manages quite well, even with strong leadership and controlled body movements. Currently there is little competition for such a vehicle, which is something 9-3 sedan and convertible bonds do not enjoy.

However, there are not enough buyers to break the left in this country to help alleviate the Saab 9-3 side of the steep slope begins to rise. Until the new 9-3, loyal and buyers of luxury compact Saab instead of considering the Audi A4 and A5, BMW 3 Series, Infiniti G, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Volvo S60 and C70. No brand luxury cars like the Subaru Legacy and Outback and Volkswagen Eos CC and also worth a look. In other words, there are a lot of trips to the best 2011 Saab 9-3.

Body styles, trim levels and options

2011 Saab 9-3 is available in three body styles: sedan, convertible and SportCombi wagon are known. Each is divided in 2.0T and Aero trim levels, the Wagon is available in more all-wheel-drive trim is known as the 9-3X. Front-wheel drive is standard on all but two models can be equipped with AWD sedan (called XWD).

The base 2.0T sedan comes standard with alloy wheels 16 inches, a rear fog lamps, heated mirrors, automatic wipers, keyless entry, cruise control, dual zone automatic temperature control , an eight-way power seat with driver lumbar adjustment, leather upholstery, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and an audio system with seven speakers with CD player and an additional audio jack. The convertible adds 17-inch wheels and a full power soft top. The 9-3X will be different 17-inch wheels, front fog lights, a higher ride height, roof rails and unique trim inside and out.

Comfort Package available on all trim levels 2.0T adds headlamp washers, heated front seats, eight episodes in the passenger seat, and auto-dimming rear view mirror. Other options include sunroof, OnStar, Bluetooth, Bose surround sound system with six CD changer and satellite radio. The convertible bond has a different 11-speaker audio system update, which also includes a CD changer and satellite navigation system.

The 9-3 Aero gains 17-inch wheels on the sedan, while all the body styles are adaptive headlights, xenon headlights, front fog lamps, leather two-tone and 2.0T of optional features. Premium Package adds rear parking sensors, electric folding and auto-dimming mirrors and memory functions of the driver. A version of the Premium package is available on the 9-3X Aero and adds xenon adaptive headlights and the front passenger seat. A navigation system is optional on Aero and 9-3X.

 

Engines and performance

Each Saab 9-3 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder 210 horsepower and 221 lb-good feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard on all but the 9-3X, which is all four wheels. AWD is optional for the sedan.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard on 2.0T front-wheel drive and a free option on Aero, Saab 9-3X sedans and AWD. A standard five-speed automatic is standard on front-wheel drive Aero and optional on 2.0T models. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on AWD and 9-3X.

With the manual and FWD Sedan Sport Hatch 3.9 and return an EPA-estimated 21 mpg highway and 24 mpg city/31 mpg combined. Get all the wheels results in a decrease of 17 / 27 / 21, while opting for fuel or converted between the two direct benefits.

Security

For 2011 Saab 9-3 comes standard with disc brakes with ABS, traction and stability control, active head restraints and front side airbags. The sedan and station wagon include side curtain airbags, while convertibles features side airbags that cover over the head of each of the front occupants. OnStar telematics emergency are optional on the 2.0T and standard on the Aero.

The 9-3 has been evaluated with the new government, more difficult 2011, crash test procedures. His notes from 2010 (which are not comparable with the tests, 2011) was to receive four of five stars for frontal impact and back and five stars for the driver's side. The convertible has not been tested. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded Best sedan 3.9 the "Good" in front offset and side impact tests.

 

Interior Design and Special Features

Saab 9-3 cab provides a comfortable front seats (especially the Aero), and good ergonomics, but the quality of interior materials is above the competitors in the classroom. Fit and finish leaves something to be desired. Sedan and wagon are sufficiently roomy, but legroom is limited to the back of a convertible bond.

Stereo and climate controls is the simplicity of the model (Welcome to Saab's previous production), but when the class on top of the competition with high-tech features are weekdays, 9-3 is pretty much stood pat. Does not have an iPod interface, the navigation system is obsolete, there is no real-time traffic and Bluetooth features of OnStar. At least there are a few eccentric Saab features, such as the console-mounted switch and the function 'Night Panel', which obscures the greater light instrument (except for most of the speedometer) and night driving.

The 9-3 does not carry more cargo than many cars in its class, offering 15 cubic feet of space in the trunk of the sedan and 12.4 cubes in the convertible. The wagon offers 29.7 cubic feet of storage space with the rear seats and impressive 72.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded. It's more than most compact crossover SUV.

Guide

With 210 hp 2.0-liter turbo in 2011 Saab 9-3 the choice of engine speed are disappointing for this class of cars. Ride quality is also disappointing because the suspension can lose composure over bumpy pavement special. Management is a bright spot, as it is light and precise enough. Roll when cornering is exaggerated with the base model 2.0T - so much so that "soft" may be used. Sport-tuned Aero model significantly improves things - like the extra traction in the XWD all-wheel drive - but even here, 9-3 is not quite match the sporting rivals.

Price $28,900

Saab Says it Can�t Pay Workers, Company�s Survival in Doubt

New clouds are forming over Saab as the automaker�s parent company, Swedish Automobile N.V., formerly known as Spyker Cars N.V., said on Thursday it will be unable to pay its 3,800 employees their wages because it has not yet obtained the necessary short-term funding.
Swedish Automobile said it and Saab �are in discussions with various parties� to secure short-term funding, including through a sale and lease-back of Saab�s real estate assets.

Saab 9-5 Sedan, 2010

Saab 9-5 Sedan 2010

The array of high-tech features on offer includes: an aircraft-like head-up information display (Pilot HUD); adaptive lighting (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); adaptive cruise control; Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; keyless entry and starting; tri-zone air conditioning; dynamic parking assistance and Saab XWD with a rear eLSD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system.

The all-turbo powertrain line-up starts at 1.6 liters and carries forward Saab's rightsizing engine strategy, which focuses on responsible performance through the development of highly efficient and relatively small four cylinder turbo engines. There is a choice of three fuels - gasoline, diesel and E85 bioethanol - and with diesel power, the new Saab 9-5 offers CO2 emissions as low as 139 g/km.
Saab 9-5 Sedan
The Scandinavian Design
Forward-looking design that doesn't ignore where it's coming from - that sums up the visual appeal of the all-new Saab 9-5 sedan. "We are giving a fresh, very modern expression to some of our classic brand design cues," says Simon Padian, Saab Brand Design Chief. "We have taken visual themes in our recent concept cars, such as the Aero X, which are inspired by Scandinavian design and our brand's aircraft heritage."

The face of the new 9-5 is defined by a deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units. The entire glasshouse is presented as a 'wraparound' mono graphic, the disguised windshield and side pillars giving the cabin Saab's signature cockpit look. Squint slightly, and the proportions of the windshield and roof become reminiscent of the classic 900 model.

The new Saab 9-5's overall proportions stretch the traditional three-box sedan silhouette, while avoiding the fastback clich� of a four-door coup� look.

Driver-focused cabin
Inside the spacious cabin, simple forms define its architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior. Compared to its predecessor, legroom and shoulder width are increased both front and rear. The choice of materials, the fit and finish and the tactile quality of the controls all reflect the new Saab 9-5's premium appeal.

The driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab, while its execution is all new. The deep center console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by a neat ventilation zone. Deeply recessed main dials include a rolling 'altimeter' speed read-out, a reference to Saab's aviation heritage from the Aero X concept. Driver displays, including the optional head-up display (Pilot HUD) in the windshield, are predominantly illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance The car's ignition, now a start/stop button, remains between the front seats, next to the gear shift.

The Rear passengers can access their own audio or watch a DVD. The rear seat entertainment unit in the back of the center console accommodates audio controls and fold-our viewing screens are installed in the front seat-backs. Wired and wireless headphones are provided for listening and viewing. The rear seat entertainment unit also includes twin air vents and an independent temperature control for the rear cabin, in addition to the dual zone air conditioning up front.

The clean, sculpted shape embraces the purity of Scandinavian design and its dramatic wraparound window graphic echoes Saab's aviation heritage. With frontal styling inspired by the award-winning Saab Aero X Concept car and a muscular, low-slung stance, the new Saab 9-5 heralds the introduction of a bold, more expressive design language.

On the road
An array of chassis technologies is focused on delivering a sporty, rewarding driving experience that belies the Saab 9-5's size. Saab XWD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system already available on the Saab 9-3, is offered with the 2.0-liter gasoline, BioPower and 2.8V6 turbo engines.. Available throughout the range is adaptive chassis control with driver settings selection through Saab DriveSense, Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive lighting and intelligent cruise control. . Two different suspension layouts are factory-fitted according to engine power and both are available with a sport chassis setting.

Saab has some 30 years' experience in turbocharging engines and the all-turbo powertrain line-up in the new Saab 9-5 further develops its rightsizing engine strategy. At launch, the four cylinder choice comprises a 160 hp, 2.0-liter turbo diesel with CO2 emissions of just 139 gm/km and a 2.0-liter gasoline turbo developing 220 hp. A top-of-the-line 2.8V6 turbo, generating 300 hp and 400 Nm of torque, is offered exclusively with Saab XWD.

Saab Aero X Concept

Saab Aero X Concept

Inspired by Saab's aviation heritage and Scandinavian roots

• Previews more progressive design language
• Innovative opening canopy eliminates doors and windshield pillars
• "Green Power" from 400 hp BioPower engine using 100 percent ethanol fuel
• All-wheel drive, carbon fiber bodywork

The Saab Aero X concept harnesses the power of Saab's aviation and Scandinavian roots to make a unique statement in performance car design. Conceived as a study to explore future design directions, its innovative features preview the development of an enhanced design language that will inspire future Saab products.

As one would expect from Saab, this dynamic two-seater sports coupe breaks with automotive design convention both outside and inside.

First, there are no doors... or windshield pillars. That's because the Saab Aero X adopts a cockpit canopy, just as you would see on a jet aircraft. It offers the Aero X pilot full 180 degree vision, and also facilitates entry and exit from its low-slung cabin.

Thrust for the all-wheel-drive Saab Aero X also comes from a powerplant with a difference. The 400-hp, twin-turbo, BioPower V6 engine is fueled entirely by ethanol, a sustainable energy source that is kinder to the environment by cutting fossil CO2 emissions. The "green power" of this advanced engine gives new meaning to the phrase "performance with responsibility."

Inside, the Saab Aero X's cockpit also adds a new dimension to clean Scandinavian interior design by completely eliminating conventional dials and buttons. Instead, Saab has applied techniques derived from Swedish glass and precision instrument making, displaying data on glass-like acrylic 'clear zones' in graphic 3-D images.
Saab Aero X Concept

With weight-saving carbon fiber bodywork, a lightweight powertrain, electronically controlled suspension and all-wheel drive, the Saab Aero X is an exciting driver's car that promises a level of performance to match its looks. Computer simulations anticipate zero to 60mph/100 kph in just 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph/250 kph (limited).

Despite being so tightly driver-focused, the Aero X still offers surprising practicality, again, a quality you would expect to find in all Saab designs. That dramatically sculpted tail conceals a useful twin storage facility, with a conventional hatch opening and sliding drawer underneath.


"The concept shows the exciting possibilities that are open to us as we evolve a more progressive design language for the brand," says Jan �ke Jonsson, Saab Automobile's Managing Director. "Our designers, engineers and marketers in Sweden are ideally placed to nurture and communicate the unique DNA of the Saab brand. Their work will ensure that future product proposals express core qualities, such as progressive design, sporty performance and emotional functionality, in a way that is specific to Saab."

The Saab Aero X is the latest in a series of concepts from Saab, each accentuating different brand qualities. These include the 'four-dimensional' 9X (IAA Frankfurt 2001), the 9-3X Cross-over Coupe (Detroit 2002) and the 9-3 Sport Hatch (IAA Frankfurt 2003).