There's no need for all those power-sucking valvetrain parts and wasted piston motions with a two-stroke. Saab built two- and three-cylinder two-strokers during the 1950s and 1960s, and the three-banger was installed in various Saabs (including the 95 and 96) from 1955 through 1966. Thanks to Tanshanomi for the recommendation!
[Wikipedia, The Auto Channel]

Given their ownership by the company-that-shall-not-be-pronounced (Koenigsegg), it was expected that we'd see something exciting out of the brand and this is certainly different — even if a lot of this was designed and prepared under GM's supervision.

Engine choices are diverse, including a 1.6-liter gas turbo good for 180 HP all the way up to a 2.8 turbo V6 putting out 300 HP with a 2.0-liter fourbanger turbo with 220 HP. If you're more into bioethanol there's also an E85 variant of the 2.0-liter engine and a 2.0-liter turbodiesel. All transmissions will be six-speed with the option of a good old self-shift or a manumatic.

On the inside, the new Saab is getting a redesigned console that wraps around the driver and includes a heads-up-display and an aviation-themed altimeter (speedo). If you liked the Saab Aero-X concept, you'll probably like this latest 9-5.

ALL-NEW SAAB 9-5 SALOON
Scandinavian Design Purity with Advanced Technology
• All-new premium saloon embodies a new era for Saab
• Scandinavian design inspired by the Aero X and Saab's rich heritage
• Engineered with driver focus for a sporty driving experience
• Excels in responsible performance with emphasis on safety and environmental concern
• Most technically advanced Saab ever with an array of ‘high-tech' features
• Public debut at the 2009 Frankfurt International Motor Show
Sleek, sophisticated and unmistakably Saab, the all-new 9-5 saloon signals the dawn of a new era for the Saab brand.  With progressive, confident styling and advanced technology, Saab's distinctive new flagship will bring a fresh, alternative choice to the premium saloon segment when it goes on sale in 2010.
The clean, sculpted shape embraces the purity of Scandinavian design, and its dramatic wraparound window graphic echoes Saab's aviation heritage. With styling inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car and a muscular, low-slung stance, the new 9-5 heralds the introduction of a bold and expressive design language.
The array of high-tech features on offer includes: an aircraft-inspired head-up information display (HUD); adaptive headlights (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); adaptive cruise control; Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; keyless entry and starting; dual-zone climate control; dynamic parking assistance, and Saab XWD with eLSD: the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system.
The all-turbo powertrain line-up is the broadest ever offered by Saab, carrying forward Saab's rightsizing engine strategy focusing on responsible performance through the development of highly efficient four cylinder turbo engines. There is a choice of three fuels – petrol, diesel and E85 bioethanol – and with diesel power, the new 9-5 offers CO2 emissions as low as 139 g/km.
"This car is the start of a new era for our brand," says Jan-Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile's Managing Director. "We have created an advanced and very distinctive product by leveraging the power of our roots in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design, sporty driving and responsible performance. The new 9-5 delivers in all these respects, as will every future product from Saab."   
Scandinavian Design   
‘Forward-looking design that doesn't ignore where it's coming from', sums up the visual appeal of the all-new Saab 9-5 saloon. "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 visual themes found 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. In this interplay of proportions, the windshield and roof are reminiscent of the classic 900 model.
Viewed from any angle, the all-new 9-5 cuts a strong and powerful stance. The ‘organic sculpture' of the low-slung body blends clean, uncluttered lines with natural, curvaceous shapes. Brand design cues are evident in the ‘hockey stick' belt-line, the strong rear C-pillars and the fuselage-smooth surfacing of the bodywork. The large Saab logo embossed in the centre of the grille characterises the assertive, self-confident design language.   
The car's dynamic character is emphasized by a falling roof-line that culminates in sweeping rear pillars that buttress a slightly recessed rear screen. Bumpers that are subtly flared to blend into the wheels convey latent energy. Below that smooth, flat rear deck, a full-width, ice-block rear light bar wraps into signature lighting.
The new 9-5's overall proportions stretch the traditional three-box saloon silhouette, while avoiding the fastback cliché of a four-door coupé look.
Driver-focused cabin
Inside the spacious cabin, simple forms define the architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior. Compared to its predecessor, legroom and shoulder width are increased both front and rear, with class-leading rear legroom. The choice of materials, the fit and finish and the tactile quality of the controls all reflect the new 9-5's premium character.
The driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab, but its execution is pioneering. The deep centre 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 (HUD) in the windscreen, are 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.
Infotainment choices include a top-of-the-line Harman Kardon 5.1 channel surround sound audio system and an 8-inch colour touch screen navigation system with hard disk storage for map data and 10GB for MP3 music files. A large centre console provides storage and connections for several portable devices through USB and 3.5mm AUX ports alongside a 12V power outlet.
Rear passengers can even access their own audio or watch a DVD. The rear seat entertainment unit in the back of the centre console accommodates audio controls and folding viewing screens are installed in the backs of the front seats. Wireless headphones are provided for listening and viewing.
On the road
An array of chassis technology is focused on delivering a sporty, rewarding driving experience that belies the 9-5's size. Saab XWD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system already available on the Saab 9-3, is offered at launch with the 2.0-litre turbo and 2.8V6 turbo engines with further applications due in the future.  Available throughout the range are: adaptive chassis control, with driver settings selected through Saab DriveSense; Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive headlights and adaptive cruise control. Three different suspension layouts are fitted according to engine power and all 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 9-5 further develops its rightsizing engine strategy. At launch, the four-cylinder diesel comprises a 160 hp, 2.0-litre turbo engine with CO2 emissions of just 139g/km and the 2.0-litre petrol turbo engine develops 220bhp.  A top-of-the-line 2.8 V6 turbo, generating 300hp and 400Nm of torque, is offered exclusively with Saab XWD.
Shortly after launch, a 1.6-litre petrol turbo with 180hp will be introduced, together with a 2.0-litre BioPower E85 engine. All transmissions will be six-speed.
A new era  
Defined and equipped by Saab as its top-of-the-line contender in the premium saloon segment, the all-new 9-5 is the most technically advanced car ever produced by the company.  It will be built at Saab's home plant in Trollhättan, where it has been engineered.
The all-new 9-5 makes its public debut at the 2009 Frankfurt International Motor Show. Combining head-turning good looks with cutting-edge driving technology, it's the start of a new era for Saab.

We've had an idea for some time what the big boy's Saab would look like, but this is the first time we've seen details of the actual production vehicle. Maintaining familiarity with the 9-3 starts with a grille with the "SAAB" text logo sitting proudly between a set of wings. The upright windshield is a throwback to previous Saabs and will likely provide and excellent forward view. Moving around to the side continues the visually stimulating cockpit like day light opening flanked by a large forward reaching C-pillar. The rear of the 9-5 is carefully designed and is very reminiscent of the Saab Aero X concept.

The interior carries along the current theme of aeronautical-inspired instrument panels with a triple pod gauge intersecting the veins of the HVAC system. Gloss black and leather is used throughout for an upmarket, classy feel.

On the rear of the car sits a TTiD4 badge indicating that the 9-5 will feature the common rail, direct and multiple fuel injection 16-valve 1.9-liter TiD unit along with the Haldex all-wheel-drive system that first debuted on the Saab 9-3 Turbo X. We'll bring you more information as it becomes available.

[AutoBild, The Car Lounge]

The images first popped up at SaabsUnited.com, which has since pulled down the post at the behest of Saab officials. But, with the cat out of the bag, er pictures on the web, there's not much more to do but post them. We have no confirmation or denial these represent the final look of the car, but they appear to line up with the spy photography, and if they're close enough to make Saab sweat, that's good enough for us. The only way we'll know for sure is when the car debuts at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

[via SaabsUnited]

[via SaabsUnited]

We've seen the upcoming 2010 Saab 9-5 sedan running around in various states of undress for some time now. Now here's the first glimpses at the wagon wearing a very form-fitting car cover.

The grille keeps the "SAAB" text front and center flanked by what appears to be a set of plane-inspired wings. 'Round back there's not much to see except the sailing C-pillar as on the current car and Saaby window lines, a cross-car piece of trim we're assuming is chrome and some undercut detail down low on the side of the bumper. We're expecting Saab to milk this baby for all it's worth, as the new 9-5 is really the only interesting thing in its quiver for some time. [SaabsUnited]

The next generation 9-5 will be putting some space between it and the small 9-3, with a considerably longer wheelbase, more powerful engines and (Saab saints be praised!) an honest-to-God hatchback. It seems a proper 9-5 will come to fruition despite Saab being on GM's auction block. [WCF]

Despite riding on the Opel Insignia's Epsilon II platform, the next 9-5 appears to wear styling every Snaab will feel comfortable driving. It appears as though we've got an upright windshield, a formal front A-pillar and a sloping tumblehome which looks to retain a hatchback, all classic Saab cues. The car will be much bigger than the current iteration in an effort to put some space between the 9-5 and the 9-3, but the new car will be going out of its way to tow the Saab party line.

The only thing we find troubling? This particular tester's gone so far as to wear a license plate starting wih "JET." Blech!
[World Car Fans]

Knut Simonsson, who is not related to Knut the Polar Bear but is instead Saab’s director of global brand and sales, revealed that the company wants to be,

“a special brand for entrepreneurs, dentists, doctors and agency people. We don't want to be another Audi.”

After failing to find itself a buyer when GM offered the brand for sale, Saab is now trying to take itself private with help from the Swedish government. The move could see production of the forthcoming 2010 Saab 9-5 moved from a GM facility in Germany to Saab’s home in Trollhattan. Doing that would be incredibly expensive, but could result in higher quality and the potential for future spin-off models; the ability to accept this cost demonstrates the company’s commitment to turn itself around. Despite having a reputation for innovation and quirkiness, Saab has languished for the last 20 years as GM’s forgotten brand with virtually no new model development and cars based on mediocre Opels then sold for premium prices.

Saab realizes that, in order to survive, all that has to change. Simonsson describes the brand’s future ideals as, “innovation, aircraft history and Scandinavia. Independent thinking.” It would have a small market share but would be the brand of new ideas, consumer-friendly products and credible design. In short, Simonsson says, Saab would be the “Apple of car brands.”

Simonsson says the thinking for this new direction started, “three or four years ago” with the Saab Aero-X concept. The first step is the new 9-5, which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. We don't necessarily know if they can become the "Apple of car brands" just by making them white, bulbous and with lots of chrome.

[via Autocar]

The future of Saab has been called into question recently with delays to the 9-5 as well as the 9-4, but this news, emphasized by us below in the press release, confirms GM plans to maintain Saab as a brand, at least for the moment anyway.

GM Announces 2008 Global Sales of 8.35 Million Vehicles

* GM Asia Pacific sales volume grows 3 percent; Chevrolet sales in China grows 16 percent to nearly 200,000 vehicles; 1.09M vehicles sold in China sets record with 6 percent volume growth
* Third consecutive year of more than 2 million vehicles sold in Europe; Chevrolet sales breakthrough 500,000 mark with record share; Opel sets sales record in Central and Eastern Europe with volume up 13 percent
* GM beats the industry with more than 1.27 million total vehicle sales in Latin America, Africa and Middle East Region led by top-selling Chevrolet Corsa, Celta and Aveo
* GM continues emerging markets leadership with 2008 market share growth in 14 of 26 markets

DETROIT – Record-setting sales performance in GM’s Latin America, Africa and Middle East and Asia Pacific regions, and a third consecutive 2 million vehicles sales performance in Europe during 2008, helped General Motors sell more than 8.35 million vehicles globally last year. GM’s nearly 3 percent growth in both the Asia Pacific and Latin America, Africa and Middle East regions partially offset North America sales that declined 21 percent, and growing pressure in Europe that resulted in 7 percent fewer sales. Compared with 2007, GM’s total sales were down 11 percent, reflecting continuing global economic pressures that include tightening credit, falling commodities prices and lack of GDP growth.

In 2008, GM sold 5.37 million vehicles outside the U.S., accounting for 64 percent of total global sales volume compared with 59 percent a year ago.

In the fourth quarter of 2008, GM sales of 1.70 million vehicles were down 26 percent compared with the same quarter a year ago. Most of that decline was reflected in 379,000 fewer vehicles sold in North America as the market yielded to a crushing lack of consumer confidence, and tightened credit requirements, in the United States.

MORE

GM Continues Growth in Emerging Markets

“GM’s 2008 sales performance shows that we are continuing to take advantage of new emerging market opportunities and are meeting customer needs with fuel-efficient products that offer compelling design and great value – such as the award-winning Opel/Vauxhall Insignia in Europe, the Buick Excelle in China and the Corsa in Latin America,” Jonathan Browning, vice president, global sales, service and marketing, said today. “We saw sales volume increases in the key four emerging markets of Brazil (up 10 percent), Russia (up 30 percent), India (up 9 percent), and China (up 6 percent).”

“The challenges in the global financial markets, including credit tightening, the drop in commodity prices, and economic uncertainty continue to negatively impact overall demand for new vehicles,” Browning added. “For the total global industry, we saw about 3.5 million fewer vehicles sold in 2008 than the previous year.”

With these market challenges comes significant opportunity and GM is well-positioned with new products either on showroom floors or on the way in the near future.

Chevrolet sales in Asia Pacific grew 14 percent in 2008 compared with a year ago. Chevrolet sales in China (up 16 percent) and India (up 9 percent) powered much of this growth. The Wuling brand continued strong growth in China with sales up 17 percent in 2008 compared with a year ago. The Buick channel is very strong in China with the all-new Regal and soon-to-be-launched LaCrosse. The Chevrolet Cruze and Cadillac SRX also will play important roles in taking advantage of China growth in the months and years ahead.

In the Latin America, Africa and Middle East region – a traditional Chevrolet stronghold – 2008 sales grew 3 percent compared with 2007. Chevrolet accounted for nearly 90 percent of GM’s sales in the region and Brazil remains the second-largest volume market for Chevrolet. Also, GMC, Cadillac and Saab showed impressive annual percentage increases in their sales volume – up 24, 22 and 16 percent, respectively, compared with a year ago. GM sales in the LAAM region beat the expected industry performance, with more than 1.27 million vehicles sold.

MORE

A large, relatively young population with a low car-per-capita ratio, hold promise for the market in years to come. Several new Chevrolet product launches are on tap for 2009 including the Cruze, Malibu, Traverse and Camaro.

Chevrolet sales in Europe also contributed to the brand’s solid 2008 results, growing 11 percent and breaking though the 500,000 vehicle mark for the first time. Chevrolet is also performing strongly in emerging markets. It remains the top-selling import brand in Russia. In addition, Opel sales in Russia increased by 49 percent, while Saab increased 68 percent in 2008 compared with a year ago. The Opel Insignia won the prestigious European Car of the Year Award – a first for Opel in 22 years and a strong statement about GM’s global midsize vehicle architecture. Important launches for GM this year in the region include the Opel Insignia Sports Tourer and Astra; Chevrolet Cruze; and the new Saab 9-3X and 9-5.

A highlight of GM’s North America regional performance was the all-new Chevrolet Malibu sedan that achieved the highest percentage gain in annual sales volume (39 percent) of any of the top-20 selling vehicles in the United States. While GM’s total North America vehicle sales volume in 2008 declined 21 percent, there were a number of bright future product opportunities highlighted at the North America International Auto Show in Detroit this month. They included the new Chevrolet Camaro and second-generation Equinox; the second-generation Cadillac SRX and all-new CTS sport wagon; and the Buick LaCrosse.

Sales of Cadillac outside of the United States were supported by strong growth of the brand in Latin America, Africa and Middle East (up 22 percent).

Note: Global sales results are based on preliminary numbers reported and have been rounded.

MORE

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), one of the world’s largest automakers, was founded in 1908, and today manufactures cars and trucks in 34 countries. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 252,000 people in every major region of the world, and sells and services vehicles in some 140 countries. In 2008, 8.35 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Note: GM sales and production results are available on GM Media OnLine at http://media.gm.com/us/gm/en by clicking on News, then Sales/Production. In this press release and related comments by General Motors management, we use words like "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "forecast," "objective," "plan," "goal" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, representing our current judgment about possible future events. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but actual results may differ materially due to a variety of important factors. Among other items, such factors might include: our ability to comply with the requirements of our credit agreement with the U.S. Department of Treasury; the availability of funding for future loans under that credit agreement; our ability to execute the restructuring plans that we have disclosed, our ability to maintain adequate liquidity and financing sources and an appropriate level of debt; and changes in general economic conditions, market acceptance of our products; shortages of and price increases for fuel; significant changes in the competitive environment and the effect of competition on our markets, including on our pricing policies. GM’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly report on Form 10-Q provide information about these factors, which may be revised or supplemented in future reports to the SEC on Form 10-Q or 8-K.

Outside, the new 9-5 Griffin Edition gets slicker wheels, liberal use of what Saab calls "matte chrome," a unique pair of gray colors and spoilers on both the Sedan and Sportcombi. On the interior, those adjustments continue with a selection of premium materials, contrasting stitching and piping on the seats and finally, rear parking assist. Prices will start at $42,775 for the sedan and $ 44,045 for the Sportcombi.

2009 Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition Takes Off in Detroit

DETROIT – In the luxurious 9-5 Griffin Edition, making its premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this January, Saab offers levels of premium standard equipment that are unprecedented in the 62-year history of the Swedish car brand.

As underlined by its U.S. advertising tagline, "Born From Jets," Saab's illustrious aircraft heritage is part of its design philosophy that runs throughout its range of automobiles. With the vigor of its turbocharged engine and agile road manners, the Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition resonates with its aircraft namesake, the Gripen (Swedish for Griffin) – the first of the new generation of multi-role combat aircraft to enter into active service, developed by Saab Aircraft AB in Sweden.

"With the 9-5 Griffin Edition, Saab reaches a new altitude in terms of premium standard equipment and value," said Steve Shannon, executive director, marketing and product, Saab Automobile USA.

Available in four-door Sedan as well as five-door SportCombi models, all versions feature Saab's signature 2.3L, 260-horsepower (194 kW) four-cylinder engine and can be matched to five-speed manual or automatic transmissions without extra charge.

The exterior of the 9-5 Griffin shows influences from the recently updated Saab 9-3 family, such as the use of matte chrome for the front grill, as well as the frames around the Xenon headlamps. The Sedan has a rear spoiler on the trunk lid, while the SportCombi can be recognized by its roof spoiler and roof rails in matte chrome finish.

Unique five-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels, plus Griffin badges on the front fenders adorn both body styles. In addition to Polar White, this special edition Saab 9-5 is available in six metallic colors, including Jet Black, Snow Silver, Nocturne Blue, Pepper Green, plus the new Carbon Grey and Glass Grey.

On the inside, every 9-5 Griffin shines with high-gloss interior trim, floor mats with grey piping, as well as the use of accent color stitching on the steering wheel, shift lever and handbrake. This premium stitching also applies to the Aero-inspired leather-appointed sport seats. They are available in two two-tone variations: black with parchment inserts and parchment with black inserts. Additional standard equipment includes a rear parking assist system, plus heated outside mirrors that are not only power-adjustable and foldable, but also auto-dimming.

Expected to start arriving in Saab dealer showrooms in January 2009, the 9-5 Griffin will be priced starting at U.S. $42,775 for the Sedan and $ 44,045 for the versatile and stylish SportCombi (prices include destination charges). In addition to the rich standard equipment, including an automatic transmission, the only options for the 9-5 Griffin are metallic paint, ventilated seats and a navigation system.

Saab is a division of General Motors Corp. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of the Saab 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden. For the 2009 model year, Saab offers 7 different models that deliver 27 mpg or better according to EPA Highway fuel economy standards. In addition to 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper warranty, including roadside assistance and courtesy transportation, every new Saab comes with 3 years/36,000 miles no-charge scheduled maintenance plus standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio. Visit www.saabusa.com for more information

[Source: GM]

SAAB EXTENDS XWD CROSS-WHEEL-DRIVE TO 9-3 2.0T MODELS

DETROIT — Saab begins the 2009 model year with attractive news for those seeking a vehicle that combines the enhanced functionality of cross-wheel-drive technology, Scandinavian design and an engaging, turbocharged driving experience.

Saab broadens the appeal of its 9-3 range – it’s most popular – for 2009 with available XWD cross-wheel-drive technology on 9-3 2.0T Sport Sedan and SportCombi models and a new 2.0T “Sport” model. Cross-wheel drive availability started in the 2008 model year with the V-6-equipped 9-3 Aero and the limited-edition Turbo X Sport Sedan and SportCombi.

“True to its Scandinavian origins, Saab has built a large part of its reputation on excellent road manners under difficult driving conditions like rain, sleet and snow,” said Steve Shannon, Saab Automobile USA general manager. “Our new cross-wheel-drive technology, which delivers unprecedented levels of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control, further illustrates Saab’s commitment to offering active safety in sporty, efficient and driver-focused vehicles.”

Saab’s XWD cross-wheel-drive is a pre-emptive, active-on-demand system that is activated only when required, limiting the impact on fuel economy while giving the car a surefooted, dynamic feel that enthusiasts embrace. It is available on all 9-3 models except the Convertible, which has a different floorpan that does not accommodate additional rear-wheel-drive components. The Saab 9-3 2.0T XWD Sport Sedan and SportCombi will come standard with additional equipment such as a winter package, moonroof and automatic transmission, while a 6-speed manual is also available.

The 2009 Saab lineup consists of the 9-3 range (2.0T and Aero Sport Sedan, SportCombi and Convertible); the 9-5 range (2.3T and Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi) and the 9-7X SUV range (4.2i, 5.3i and Aero).
The model-by-model snapshot of what’s new for 2009:
9-3 – Developed in Sweden with Haldex of Stockholm, Saab’s optional XWD cross-wheel-drive system, becoming available on 2009 9-3 2.0T Sport Sedan and SportCombi models, is designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions.

This state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system includes two innovative features: pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels to optimize traction at take-off; and an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD) that allows variable torque transfer between the rear wheels. The eLSD is standard on Aero models; it is not available on 2.0T models.

Saab XWD is a fully automatic, on-demand system capable of sending up to 100 percent of engine torque to the front or rear wheels whenever necessary. While offering drivers sure-footed handling in low-grip conditions, its sophisticated operation also adds a further sporty dimension to the driving experience in all road conditions.

For 2009, Saab 9-3 “Sport” Sport Sedan buyers can choose an Aero-type appearance and performance package that includes dual bright finish tailpipes, sport bolstered seats, metallic interior decor, upgraded brakes, a sport-tuned chassis and new, sportier-looking 17 by 7.5-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. Carbon Grey Metallic and Glass Grey Metallic are new exterior color choices for 2009. Grey also is offered as an additional convertible top color choice.

9-5 – The Saab 9-5 Sedan and SportCombi bring Scandinavian-inspired performance and luxury to the competitive midsize sport sedan segment. Available in both 2.3T and Aero models, they feature distinctive, aircraft-inspired design inside and out, in keeping with Saab’s roots in aviation.
The Saab 9-5 range includes the well-equipped 2.3T Sport Sedan and SportCombi models, as well as the uplevel and sportier Aero Sport Sedan and SportCombi models.

For 2009, the 9-5 range gets revised power window switches in the center console and new exterior colors, Carbon Grey Metallic and Glass Grey Metallic. Nocturne Blue Metallic is being reintroduced. Aero models receive a high-gloss black metallic interior finish and new 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels that complement the sportier look.

9-7X – Saab brings a Scandinavian flavor to the midsize SUV market with the 9-7X SUV range, which includes the performance-oriented 9-7X Aero, the 9-7X 4.2i and the 9-7X 5.3i. All feature unique Saab brand characteristics that include sophisticated styling inside and out, premium design features, and the sporty and spirited performance inherent to Saab vehicles.

Enhancements for 2009 Saab 9-7X models include new Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity that interfaces with the vehicles’ audio system, as well as two new exterior colors, Diamond Silver Metallic and Desert Tan Metallic.

Saab’s popular 9-7X Altitude Edition package also returns for 2009. It is offered for 4.2i and 5.3i models and includes DVD touch screen navigation radio and highly polished 18-inch alloy wheels and specific badging. Exterior finish choices include Carbon Flash (only non-Aero model for which this color is available) and Diamond Silver metallic.

Saab U.S. Model Year 2009 Pricing (excludes $ 775 destination charges)
9-3 2.0T Sport Sedan: $28,835
9-3 2.0T SportCombi: $30,265
9-3 2.0T XWD Sport Sedan: $34,870
9-3 2.0T XWD SportCombi: $36,285
9-3 Aero V6T XWD Sport Sedan: $41,885
9-3 Aero V6T XWD SportCombi: $43,165
9-3 2.0T Convertible: $40,605
9-3 Aero V6T Convertible: $49,610

9-5 2.3T Sedan: $38,830
9-5 2.3T SportCombi: $39,650
9-5 Aero Sedan: $39,400
9-5 Aero SportCombi: $40,765

9-7X SUV 4.2i: $40,935
9-7X SUV 5.3i: $43,665
9-7X SUV Aero: $47,425

[Saab]

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: This is a bonehead move by GM. Saab already had a mediocre reputation on the reliability front, so reducing warranty coverage is not going to help dealers compete with BMW and Mercedes. Of course, that may be exactly the point. This may be one of the first quiet steps in letting Saab wither on the vine: Reduce competitiveness through corporate maneuvering, then blame dealers for lackluster sales when they axe the marque. Either way, as the owners of a 9-5 that needed a timing chain replacement at 60,000 miles, we wouldn't take this change too lightly. [Forbes]

How about this for a brain bender: After the shrinking mid-sized cars, they're talking about taking the future entry-level Saab 9-1 and basing it on the popular-in-Europe Opel Corsa! My, my, Saab, how you'll be shrinking.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: We like this idea. Saabs have always been quirky, pocket-sized cars that go against the grain and win admiration for it. Monster-sized Saabrolets like the 9-7X just aren't right. For a brand that embodies European sensibilities, this seems like a choice that should have been made from the get-go. [Auto News Sub. Req]

Detroit is like an onion, with many layers to explore; those with the tenacity to peel away outer layers will be rewarded with sweeter, and tastier layers the deeper they go. One of those layers is the Heidelberg project. Begun in 1986 by artist Tyree Guyton, the project is as bewildering as it is interesting.

Heidelberg is an offshoot street of Gratiot Avenue, one of the spokes in the wagon wheel grid of old Detroit. It's a short street, a part of a tiny neighborhood home to a very unique artistic community. They defy logic, they defy taste. It's a stretch of road which defines itself. The first inkling of something out of the ordinary either comes from a house covered in stuffed animals, or, a field of tires, arranged on fence posts.

The project was started as a sort of political protest. When Guyton returned from his stint in the army, his childhood neighborhood had disintegrated into crime and chaos. Seeing the devastation, he teamed up with kids and owners alike to create an outdoor art exhibit, a refuge amidst the tough streets of the area. The street is now something of an outdoor museum of the weird. Which is where our Saab 96 comes in.

Covered in copper, both in sheet and penny form, the Saab has been an installment at Heidelberg for quite a while now. With pennies glued to the outside panels, it looks like a polka dotted oddity from a distance, but up close, those panels are where the real weirdness is. They're embossed with an array of scenes and geometric pattern which defy categorization as well as logic.

If you're ever in the Detroit area, Heidelberg street is worth a stop. You won't come away with some kind of refreshed hope for humanity or anything, but it is bizarre, and thus interesting. Plus it gets you out of the safe and flabby suburbs whose sole objective is to slowly strangle individuality out of their residents.