Jalopnik: 9-1

Saab's 1-Series Mini-Fighter To Debut in London

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 11:15:00 EST

The folks at Trollhättan are not content to let their counterparts at Audi, BMW, Volvo &mdash pretty much every European luxury counterpart &mdash dominate the upscale small car market. Thus we hear they'll be introducing a concept version of the 9-1 entry level vehicle at London that will be "sporty enough to fit the Saab character" with the "functionality to attract younger buyers." Whatever that means.

We're not sure what form it will come in, but speculation seems to point to a two-door coupe with a hatch/tailgate. The drawing above was supposedly of the 2008/2010 9-3, but we think it's probably a fair indicator of what the 9-1 might look like. At this point, it's anyone's guess. [Autocar]

Across the Back Fence: Saab 9-1 Coming in 2012

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 17:11:02 EST

According to a Trolhattan Saab tipster offering alleged insider information, Saab is building a small 9-1 as "a style icon for the Saab brand." According to the tipster, the GM's shined its green light, and the supposed Mini fighter is "guaranteed" for production. This whole upscale "urban" car genre is exploding anyway — what with the Mini, Volvo C30, BMW 1-Series and reported Audi A1 (or 2). Will Saab see this vehicle as an opportunity to gain back its original rally cred, or might we expect a rebadged Opel Astra with a console-mounted ignition switch and supple leather? Uh oh. – Mike Spinelli

Meet the Flintstones.... [Trollhattan Saab]

Related:
Kappa Expansion: Saab Sonett a Go? [internal]