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.

The H is still being manufactured to this day, serving in the Saab 9-3 and 9-5. That means that the engines that power those two vehicles are not-too-distant relatives of the wonderfully horrible Triumph V8 in the Stag! By the time Saab got around to the H, however, the reliability had been improved by several orders of magnitude over the Triumph four, and nearly 30 (or 40, if you count the B engine) years of front-line service stands as a very impressive engineering achievement. We don't recommend the H as a 24 Hours Of LeMons engine (though the Box Wrench Garage Saab 900 Turbo managed to finish fourth at the Goin' For Broken '09 and fifth at the Altamont '08 race), because of that rod-throwing thing, but it makes for a solid street engine with plenty of turbocharged power potential.
[Wikipedia]

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]

We've expected the Saab 9-3X crossover for some time, but it's now officially going to make its worldwide live debut at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. There's not too much that's new other than the lifted ride height 35mm (1.4 inches), the subtle body moldings to accentuate the new larger 17-inch wheels and tires and new rugged (read: plastic) front/rear fascias with dual pipes out back.

The 2010 9-3X receives the Saab Cross Wheel Drive (XWD) system that made its debut last year on the Darth Vader limited edition 9-3 Turbo X. It's now been mildly re-tuned for the added ride height, but don't expect a drastic change. The peppy 210 horsepower 2.0 liter turbo engine is carryover from the 2009 models along with the six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Unfortunately, there are no plans for a 280 horsepower 2.8 liter turbo V6 model, but our guess is that we'll see it in the not-so-distant future if Saab wants to remain relevant against its German rivals.

GM hasn't yet revealed a price for the 2010 Saab 9-3X, but we're making an educated guess that it'll slot somewhere in between the $39,080 9-3 2.0T SportCombi and the $45,660 9-3 Aero SportCombi. Since the Saab brand hasn't witnessed the sales numbers it needs as of late, you can probably expect your local dealer to throw in a case of Mountain Dew or maybe even Red Bull to satisfy the taste for the 'extreme' crowd Saab is targeting with this car. If your craving for the Dew hasn't subsided by the Fall, head on over to the Saab dealer and pick yourself up a case along with the new 2010 Saab 9-3X.

Press Release:

New Saab 9-3X World Premiere at Geneva Motor Show

The Smart All-rounder for Outdoor Enthusiasts

DETROIT – At the Geneva motor show in March, Saab will introduce the 9-3X — a new addition to the 9-3 range, becoming available in the 2010 as of Model Year. Designed for people with active lifestyles who don't want a large Crossover or SUV, the sporty 9-3X is scheduled to make its American debut at the New York auto show in April.

The Saab 9-3X is a rugged all-round car designed to take active individualists to the start of their adventure. With distinctive looks, a versatile SportCombi body, higher stance and advanced all-wheel drive technology, the 9-3X offers fuel efficiency and functional storage without limiting the kinds of roads that need to be driven.

In the 9-3X, the acclaimed Saab Cross Wheel Drive (XWD) system – which made its debut in the Turbo X limited edition model last year – will be combined with the fuel-efficient 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. Overall, the 9-3X embodies Saab's "EcoPower" technology philosophy, which aims at combining a dynamic driving experience with an efficient use of resources to achieve responsible performance.

Distinctive Appeal

Saab designers raised the chassis of the two-wheel drive 9-3 SportCombi 35 mm (1.4 inches) higher, so the 9-3X can handle a rugged driving terrain. It is specifically designed for those who frequently hit gravel or unpaved roads, without compromising the driving experience on asphalt.

The Saab 9-3X is a car in tune with the less-is-more needs of today's customers. "The 9-3X is an efficient all-rounder for anyone who doesn't want or need an SUV- type vehicle," says Simon Padian, Saab Brand Design Chief. "Simply put, we are offering a trekking shoe that will do what's required in more comfort and style than a heavier mountaineering boot."

New front and rear bumpers feature a dark gray, grained finish that is also applied to the side sills and the edges of the wheel arches as a protective covering when the terrain becomes loose or muddy. This treatment is complemented by skid panels with a matt aluminum finish, curving up towards the door opening at the rear and adopting a wing form in the lip of the lower front bumper. These are matched by matte, aluminum-colored lower door decor strips. Roof rails and visible, twin round exhaust tailpipes are standard. Front fog lights ringed with a chrome finish add yet another bold accent.

With the addition of newly designed, multi-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, the 9-3X's exterior character reflects its ability to handle mixed road conditions, whether rough or smooth, loose or paved. Inside, the 9-3X interior is based on top-of-the-line specification, adding a dark metallic finish to the door trims, glove box and gearshift surround.

Total Traction

At the heart of the 9-3X is Saab's cutting-edge XWD system. It is an intelligent, active system that continuously distributes engine drive torque between the front and rear axles as required for optimum stability and grip in all conditions.

The hardware includes an electronically-controlled Torque Transfer Device (TTD), which varies power delivery between the axles. A valve increases or reduces hydraulic pressure on wet clutch plates inside the TTD to progressively engage or disengage the rear axle. The degree of ‘slip' dictates how much drive is transmitted to the rear wheels. A standard rear limited slip differential (eLSD) operates on the same principle, splitting drive across the axle to whichever wheel has more grip.

As part of the Swedish-manufacturer's rightsizing strategy, the 9-3X will come to the U.S. with Saab's hallmark 2.0-liter gasoline turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain, offering 210 horsepower. Complementing the sporty exterior styling, the engine is mated with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Form meets function in luggage area

The 9-3X is also designed to make loading sports and leisure equipment easy, matching form with function. The rear cargo area, with a low floor, is surprisingly spacious and well-proportioned. The compact design of the rear suspension allows a deep box-like space, free from intrusions, offering a useful rear seat up/down volume of 29.7/72.3 cubic feet .

The 60/40 split rear seat-back incorporates a ski-hatch and folds down without any need to move the fixed seat cushion. The fold-down front passenger seat-back also makes it possible to carry items that are as long as 8 feet.

The fully carpeted rear load space is illuminated by two interior lights mounted on the inside of the D-pillars. It is accessed by a lightly-weighted tailgate that opens down to bumper level, its damper rods completely hidden in the roof to allow a clear, uncluttered opening. The flush-fitted, black molded floor plate has been designed to stay scratch-free even in heavy use.

The TwinFloor stowage facility, too, helps keep luggage and equipment safe and tidy. The middle section of the floor hinges upwards transversely when the handle is pulled so that the front edge fits into two retaining slots. There is also a 12-volt power socket in the main load area (for a hot or cool box) and a separate storage compartment at either side of the floor, one fitted with a molded holder for large bottles.

Arriving for the 2010 model year, the 9-3X is expected to arrive in Saab showrooms throughout the United States this fall. Pricing will be announced at the start of the model year.

[via GM]

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.

Saab Celebrates 25 years of Convertibles with Special Edition

DETROIT – The first ever Saab Convertible made its world debut at the Frankfurt auto show in the fall of 1983. Now, 25 years later, a Special Edition makes its American debut at the Los Angeles International auto show which opens to the public on November 22. This new version of the Saab 9-3 Convertible will be showcased in a unique bright champagne metallic color.

Saab surprised the automotive world when it pioneered the concept of a ‘four season, four-seat’ soft top Convertible. Designed to be practical and stylish, the Scandinavian-styled convertible changed the perception of open top vehicles to be used all the year round.

“Saab has sold more than a quarter of a million convertibles worldwide and this latest edition highlights the timeless design and responsible performance that Saab convertibles have always represented,” said Steve Shannon, executive director, marketing and product, Saab Automobile USA.

The special edition Saab Convertible will be available in three metallic colors to include Jet Black, Carbon Grey and the new Bright Champagne. It will feature Saab’s signature 2.0-liter, 210 hp four cylinder engine and can be matched to six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions.

Special content includes influences from the Turbo X performance model, such as the design of the front bumper and steering wheel plus carbon fiber interior finishes and black floor mats with grey binding. Like the Aero version, the rear shows dual exhaust pipes and an anthracite grey bumper insert. Five-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels will be standard.

Expected to arrive in dealer showrooms in January 2009, the Saab 9-3 2.0T Special Edition Convertible will be priced starting at $ 46,725 including destination charges.

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: 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]

Obviously riding on the Saab 9-3 Sportcombi, the 9-3X appears to add the Cross Wheel Drive (XWD) system which debuted on the Saab 9-3 Turbo X, dual pipes out the back, the requisite flared plastic fenders and skid plates and of course, a bigger back end. [More at Trollhattan Saab]

The Chevy Aveo could see its employee discount reduced or removed, particularly since the Korean-built vehicle is actually posting impressive sales numbers thanks to high gas prices. The Pontiac G8, built in Australia, and the Saturn Astra, built in Belgium, were also mentioned in the report as potential candidates for disqualification.

Though the removal of employee discounts may not be big news to most of the country, Detroit-area dealers count on employee sales for a disproportionate share of their income. One Saab dealer claimed up to 40% of his business stemmed from employee purchases, the removal of which would add yet another pressure point on an already-tanking Michigan economy. [Automotive News (Sub. Req.); Photo Credit: trollhattansaab.net]

2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible Yellow Edition: Return of a Classic

DETROIT — While all Saab Convertibles are popular among car aficionados, owning one in yellow is an extra sunny experience. The first-ever yellow version of the Saab Convertible, issued in 1991, now enjoys collector car status, just as well-kept copies of the 1997 version are starting to get equally sought after. Yet for those preferring the attractions of an all-new open Saab, the third time may be the charm. This spring, yellow is back in a limited edition that is unprecedented in the current generation Saab Convertible - without a doubt, a future classic.

The Saab Convertible Yellow Edition is based on the 2.0T version, its turbocharged four-cylinder combining spirited performance with excellent fuel economy. In addition to its Lynx Yellow paint and a long list of standard equipment, including XM radio and OnStar, this special edition features Aero look items such as 17-inch, five spoke alloy wheels and a subtle, yet effective rear spoiler while the premium audio system will be music to all ears. The 2008 Saab Convertible Yellow Edition has a MSRP of $ 42,830, including destination charges.

Top Safety Pick
Saab pioneered the concept of a 'four season, four-seater' soft top with the launch of the first Saab Convertible in 1986, which was initially exclusively sold in the United States and immediately created a cult following. Now in its third-generation, the Saab Convertible leverages more than two decades of experience in designing an open-top car that is as practical as it is stylish and safe.

The current Saab 9-3 Convertible has a level of structural integrity, build quality and running refinement that places it at the very top of its class. Like the 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi, the Saab 9-3 Convertible was named a "2008 Top Safety Pick" by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, following its first-ever crash tests for open cars last year.

The Convertible' DynaCage system helps provide rollover protection with pop-up rear roll bars, strengthened A-pillars and sills, and automatic seat-belt pre-tensioning. Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR) are fitted to the front seats as standard to help counter the risk of neck injury in rear-end impacts.

Innovative product features further develop the Saab concept that an open-top car should be 'more than a Convertible' by offering effective transport all the year round. Saab 'ReAxs', a unique rear wheel steer characteristic in the kinematics of the suspension, contributes to the responsive chassis dynamics, as does the reinforcement of the front, rear and side structures to compensate for the absence of a fixed roof.

On the road, the Convertible delivers all the fun-to-drive qualities of the widely-acclaimed 9-3 Sport Sedan chassis. The all-turbo powertrain line-up is led by a 2.8-liter V6 rated at 255 hp in the Aero model, while the 210 hp 2.0-liter four cylinder shines with great fuel economy.


Scandinavian design 
Scandinavian design ensures the styling is clean and flowing. This is an open-top car that looks like a unique model in its own right, free from any awkward styling compromises - regardless whether the top is down, or up.

The hydraulically-powered, triple layer roof automatically latches to the windshield header and deploys just 20 seconds, making it among the fastest in its class. The innovative CargoSET function connects the roof operation to a flexible, 'concertina' storage well in the trunk. When the roof is up, the well automatically retracts, releasing useful stowage space. 

The interior shares the cockpit feel and driver-focused themes of the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi. Particular emphasis was placed on styling that integrates the rear passenger area, including a light colored, near seamless headlining that gives a fixed-head interior ambience. A U-shaped, Surround Trim extends from the base of A-pillars along the top of the doors, rear side trims and tonneau cover, further integrating the interior and exterior.

For ease of use and convenient rear access, the Saab Convertible front seats have an extended travel and integrated seat-belts, which eliminates the need for attachment to the B-pillar. Other interior features include profiler personalization of cabin functions as well as Night Panel 'need to know' instrument illumination.


Saab is a division of General Motors Corp. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of Saab 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X automobiles for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden. As of the 2008 model year, all Saabs have XM Satellite Radio and OnStar as standard equipment. Additionally, all new Saabs have no-charge scheduled maintenance, and the Saab 100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. Visit HYPERLINK "http://www.saabusa.com" www.saabusa.com for more information.

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Sadly, the business ended in 2006 and the company is looking for someone else to to take over production. There's one major obstacle to producing new Saab campers going forward: Saab sedans no longer feature hatches. We say transfer the thing over to the new Skoda Superb. (h/t to SLRSpeedShop) [Toppola Official Website]