As we mentioned last month, Saab is using the limited-edition Turbo X as a way of introducing the Haldex-sourced XWD system — as well as more turbos and a more distinct styling — to the entire lineup. With a 286 HP turbocharged V6, 294 lb-ft of torque available at 2,150 RPM and that high-tech all wheel drive system mated to either a six-speed manual or a paddle-shifting six-speed auto, this Saab doesn't look much like the 900's of yore — and it doesn't perform like one either.

So what's it like behind the wheel of this terror from Trollhättan? On the short closed course and the available public street routes, the Turbo X is practically heroic. Pegging the throttle not only rewards with a glorious engine note somewhere between "angry four-banger" and "loping V8," but when the well-executed torque curve pins you to the seat as you hit a long straight, the car feels like a performance car is supposed to feel — like you're a test pilot hurtling upward into an ever-darker pool of blue sky.

The first time I used the throttle to steer the car through a fast sweeping corner, I found myself wondering if we had been dropped off into a parallel universe. In past Saabs, the only thing the throttle was good for was acquainting you with the curb. Second and third for the notchy manual transmission are like some kind of magical happy fun-time selectors. At the limit of grip, the car communicates beautifully, so easy to balance you'll find yourself plotting your next four-wheel drifting opportunity.

Throughout the tests I left the traction control in full nanny mode to simulate true Saabiness. To my surprise I was happy to find the Turbo X's nanny was the lazy kind, only checking in every once in a while to make sure you're not about to stuff it into a post, but generally letting you run true to course. I pushed both the sedan and the SportCombi hard, and never once found the traction control a burden. Speaking of the two models, here's a funny little secret — if you don't look in your rear view mirror, you'll never be able to tell the two apart on the track.

But that's the manual transmission. What about the Black Knight's snazzy six-speed manumatic? Good, but not great. If you find yourself unable to coordinate clutch, shift knob and wheel simultaneously (sorry boss!), it's a good alternative. Dropped onto the track in full auto, shifting lags and doesn't quite deliver what the engine and XWD system are capable of. Switch it into manumatic via the "+/-" gate and it's a whole new animal. While the shift points remain a little muddy, the system will generally obey your commands and allow you to abuse the rev range with abandon. If you bounce between second and third, performance is pretty respectable. If you let it hang in a gear, it actually feels like a manual transmission — stabbing the throttle will give the same instant-on power feel.

On the street and in traffic, the cars have a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde quality to them. They're perfectly happy to plod along in Boston's cramped streets and the light — almost too light (Hey, maybe we're starting to see why Wert's normal high-intensity foot-mashing was so dangerous!) — clutch won't tire even the weakest of left leg. However, drop either transmission down a cog or two and that gorgeous exhaust note fills the cabin, encouraging and calling out to you to engage in random acts of silliness.

At the end of the day, the 2008 Saab 9-3 Turbo X isn't some kind of Saabvior, it's more of a missionary man for the brand. With only 600 slated for US shores and half already spoken for, the Turbo X won't be setting any sales records, but it will be raising eyebrows. Saab is having a very "Cadillac in 1999" moment, checking out the market and thinking "Hey, we could really shake things up here." The Turbo X manages to maintain a lot of what's great about a Saab, while eschewing those stodgy stereotypes and pushing the limit on the brand's past. It manages to surprise and delight just by existing. We just wonder how all the patch-elbowed tweed jacket-wearing college professors feel about that.

First of all, let's talk a bit about the 2008 Saab 9-3 Turbo X. When we first saw the Darth Vader-like sedan from Trollhättan, we were impressed by it's Swedish looks, the engine under the hood and the bits n' pieces connecting the power to the road. Why wouldn't we be? We're talking about a Saab with an intercooled turbo'ed 2.8-liter V6 under the hood with an output of 280 horses mated to a six-speed manual transmission and a fourth-generation Haldex XWD system to put the 295 lb-ft of torque to good use.

But it doesn't just have all the right pieces. As we've already said — it also looks good — from the 18" black-rim wheels to the interior evoking the look and feel of the classic black Saab 900 Turbo. Even the steering wheel's purpose-built for performance.

But enough, let's move on to the test procedure which is what we were all here for anyway. GM asked the Corvette Racing support team from Pratt & Miller to break away from their Jakegasm for the day to time the laps, and behind the steering wheel of each of the vehicles they dropped the Scandinavian sensation Jan Magnussen and sent him out on the track to do some laps on both a dry and wet track. Yes, that's the same Jan Magnussen with 25 Formula 1 starts, and triple Le Mans 24 hours wins for Corvette Racing. Good guy to have behind the wheel, right?

Each of the vehicles were sent out as stock, and all of them were sent out with traction control nanny systems fully engaged. So how'd the Turbo X do? Well, it's a GM event, so how'd you think they did? Actually, surprisingly better than expected. On the dry track, the Turbo X garnered commendable middle-of-the-road status, beaten by the Subaru WRX STi and the M3 by a couple of seconds and the 3-series by only a few tenths of a second. The Turbo X surprisingly put away the A4 by almost 2.5 seconds.

But it was on the wet track that that new 4th-generation Haldex XWD system really appeared to prove its mettle — blowing away the A4 Quattro, besting the Subie and dropping behind the best M3 lap time by only one tenth of a second.

While that's great for Saab to have a product that can take on the best of the mid-size performance sedans, it's still only a limited-run vehicle. Approximately 600 of the 2,000 special edition 9-3's produced will make it across the ocean to be snatched up by Saab-ophiles, which is not enough to really make a dent in the marketplace. Still, with that understated look and those respectably tough performance numbers, it's an interesting choice for performance-minded buyers of mid-size sedans. That is if you happen to be one of the lucky few able to snatch up this spicy Swedish meatball. But we guess that's the point. Saab marketing folks hope the 9-3x will build a buzz about their cross-wheel drive system that'll be hitting the rest of the 9-3 lineup in the near-term future, and expanding to, you know, other Saab models shortly. In that, we think, they've accomplished what they'd set out to do.

We'd have liked to provide a bit more detail on our experience driving the new 2008 Saab Turbo X after the day's testing was complete. However, because the boss's left foot got a little bit heavy — and a lot bit forgetful — we didn't get more than a lap and a half. And by "we," we mean him. We'll just let his sidebar explanation over yonder explain that one to you. Suffice it to say, the Saab folks were mighty good sports, and our intrepid boss was mighty red-in-the-face at the end of the day as he remembered exactly why his road test editor was given the responsibility for track-days.

2008 SAAB Turbo X: Black To The Future

BOSTON - Saab celebrates three decades of leadership in turbocharging by launching the 2008 Saab Turbo X, a driver-focused performance car that sets new standards of performance and capability for the brand.

Flanked by a classic, black 1985 Saab 900 SPG, the new Saab Turbo X made its North American debut at the 2007 New England International Auto Show in Boston - paying tribute to the Northeast region where Saab originally started its U.S. business more than half a century ago, and where many longtime Saab aficionados reside.

"The Turbo X is the ultimate performance expression of the new Saab 9-3 range," said Saab Automobile USA General Manager Steve Shannon. "It delivers levels of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control never experienced before from Saab ."

The first turbocharged Saab, a 99 hatchback, debuted in the fall of 1977. Combining brisk performance with excellent fuel economy, that car started a trend that was followed by many other manufacturers. Now, the all-black Turbo X takes Saab "back to the future," evoking the iconic appeal of the first black 99 and 900 Turbos - and introducing innovative Saab XWD all-wheel-drive technology.

"Like the enthusiasts who have remained loyal from the first turbo models, we are very proud of our turbocharging heritage," said Shannon. "The new Turbo X is one of the most satisfying Saabs ever built."

Already hailed as a future classic, the Saab Turbo X will become available in four-door Sport Sedan and five-door SportCombi body styles. It has styling cues that enhance aerodynamic performance and create a distinctive appearance, including specially designed 18-inch alloy wheels that have a grey, titanium-like finish that harks back to Saab's classic three-spoke design. The "black turbo" theme is continued in the well-equipped interior, which carries unique appointments.

For the 2008 model year only 600 examples - split between both body styles - will come to the United States. Pricing starts at $42,510 for the Sport Sedan and $43,310 for the SportCombi; and first deliveries will be made in spring 2008.

XWD driving experience

A new dimension in chassis control is realized with the Turbo X, leveraging Saab's unrivalled experience in turbocharging with the innovative Saab XWD system. Combined with the car's sport-tuned suspension, brakes and electronic control systems, the Turbo X is engineered to meet a single need: Driving satisfaction.

Saab XWD is an active all-wheel-drive system designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability. Its sophisticated electronic control allows fine balancing of drive torque, not only between the two axles but also between the rear wheels. In effect, this stretches the performance envelope of the chassis; for example, raising the threshold at which ESP throttle and braking interventions are triggered. The result is closer driver involvement through "positive force" chassis control.

The driving benefits of the XWD system are best appreciated on the open road. Data from the ABS/ESP sensors - measuring wheel speed, yaw rate and steering angle - is analyzed by the Saab XWD control module. At appropriate moments, rear drive is instantly applied to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics, improving stability and road-holding.

Driver control is taken a step further on the Turbo X by the eLSD, the first application of an electronically controlled, rear limited-slip differential in the segment. It uses inputs from the rear-wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40 percent of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip. When cornering hard, this yaw damping effect helps the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

To exploit the full benefits of Saab XWD, the chassis of the Turbo X has been lowered 10 mm and the springs and dampers optimized to minimize body movement. To maintain a constant ride height, self-leveling dampers are fitted at the rear.

Stopping power is also increased with larger brake discs fitted: internally ventilated, 13.6-inch-diameter (345 mm) at the front; and externally ventilated, 11.5-inch (292 mm) at the rear. Standard 235/45 R18 tires ensure excellent grip for the 18-inch alloy wheels.

The powerhouse at the heart of the Turbo X is a 24-valve, 2.8L V-6 turbo engine generating 295 lb.-ft. (400 Nm) of torque between 2,150 rpm and 4,500 rpm; and maximum power of 280 horsepower (206 kW) at 5,500 rpm. Design features include a lightweight, all-aluminum construction, with a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks for perfect balance; variable-inlet valve timing and twin-scroll turbocharging. It is offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

This responsive, high-torque powerplant is the perfect partner for Saab XWD. Together, they give the Saab Turbo X sporty, all-wheel-drive performance and handling characteristics that will appeal to all enthusiastic drivers who seek a rewarding experience behind the wheel.

Black is back

The Saab Turbo X visually communicates its focus on driving performance by extending the bold, progressive design themes of the new 9-3 range. Offered exclusively in metallic jet black, with the front grille and all exterior detailing accented in a matte grey titanium-like finish, it represents a contemporary expression of its illustrious black 900 Turbo forebear.

Distinctive styling additions are designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency, as well as emphasize the Turbo X's performance focus. At the front, a deeper lip spoiler and integrated air intake contribute to reduced drag while also increasing air flow to the engine and intercooler.

At the rear, the re-profiled fascia and diffuser-like insert panel lower the point of air flow separation, further reducing drag and assisting high-speed stability. The Sport Sedan features a rear spoiler that extends the line of the trunk deck, reducing high speed lift forces at the rear axle. The regular SportCombi already has a standard spoiler that extends the rear roof line. Twin, rhomboid-shaped tailpipes complete the exterior additions.

Inside, the black turbo theme is continued throughout the cabin. The sport seating, with additional bolstering, is upholstered entirely in black-appointed leather. The sporty ambience is further emphasized by a carbon-fiber finish to the door inserts, glove box and gear shift console, which is unique to the Turbo X.

The driver benefits from improved feel, through the addition of a thick-rimmed, soft-grip leather steering wheel. In recognition of Saab's turbo heritage, the Turbo X boost gauge is a replica of the original 900 Turbo display.

Owners will also enjoy a personalized greeting when they get behind the wheel and switch on the ignition. A unique "All Systems Go" message flashes in the main instrument display. The owner's name, with the edition number of the car, can also be programmed for display by the supplying dealer.

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. Visit www.saabusa.com for more information.

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Saab Turbo X: Saab Unleashes 21st Century Black Turbo

Performance car to celebrate 30th Anniversary of Saab turbocharging
Launch of Saab XWD, innovative all-wheel-drive system
Unique design evokes look for classic black Saab 900 Turbo
Sport-tuned chassis: suspension, brakes, wheels
400 Nm / 280 hp (206 kW), 2.8 V6 Turbo: 0-100 kph in 5.7 seconds

Saab celebrates three decades of leadership in turbocharging at this year's Frankfurt International Motor Show by launching the Saab Turbo X, a driver-focused performance car that sets new standards for the brand.

This black limited edition model takes Saab 'back to the future' by evoking the iconic appeal of its first black 900 Turbo and introducing innovative Saab XWD technology.

It is unveiled today (11 Sept), exactly 30 years after Saab surprised the automotive world at Frankfurt when it revealed its first turbocharged model. That set a trend other manufacturers were to follow. Now Saab unleashes turbo power for the first time through Saab XWD, a cutting edge all-wheel-drive system that sets performance standards competitors will also seek to emulate.

With 400 Nm of torque from its 280 hp/ 206 kW 2.8V6 turbo engine, the Turbo X is the ultimate performance expression of the new Saab 9-3 range. Saab XWD features active management that not only splits torque delivery between both axles, but also between the rear wheels. This responsive system delivers a level of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control never seen before from Saab.

In addition to tuning of the suspension and its electronic chassis, throttle and powertrain settings, the Turbo X features distinctive styling additions that enhance aerodynamic performance.

Available in Sport Sedan or SportCombi bodystyles, the Saab Turbo X limited edition showcases the launch of Saab XWD. The order book is now open and the first customer deliveries are expected during the second quarter of next year. Each example can carry a personalized message in the main instrument display.

Driver in Focus with Saab XWD
Intelligent Saab XWD for superb handling and roadholding
Rear eLSD gives torque transfer up to 40% between wheels
2.8 V6 Turbo with twin-scroll turbocharger, variable valve timing
Sports tuned chassis optimizes all-wheel-drive benefits

The Saab Turbo X adds a new dimension in chassis control to Saab's unrivalled experience in turbocharging. It is the result of a development program that leverages the full potential of Saab's innovative XWD system, with the car's sports tuned suspension, brakes and electronic control systems all aligned to meet a single need: driving satisfaction.

Saab XWD is an active all-wheel-drive system designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability. (Refer to New Saab 9-3 release for full technical description). Its sophisticated electronic control allows fine balancing of drive torque, not only between the two axles but also between the rear wheels. In effect, this stretches the performance envelope of the chassis, for example, raising the threshold at which ESP throttle and braking interventions are triggered. The result is closer driver involvement through 'positive force' chassis control.

The driving benefits of the XWD system are best appreciated out on the open road. Data from the ABS/ESP sensors - measuring wheel speed, yaw rate and steering angle - is utilized by the Saab XWD control module. Rear drive is instantly applied to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics, improving stability and roadholding.

Driver control is taken a step further on the Turbo X by the eLSD, the first application of an electronically-controlled, rear limited slip differential in this segment of the market. It uses inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40% of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip. When cornering hard, this yaw damping effect helps the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

To exploit the full benefits of Saab XWD, the chassis of the Turbo X has been lowered by 10 mm and the springs and dampers stiffened to minimize body movement. To maintain a constant ride height irrespective of load, self-leveling dampers are fitted at the rear.

Stopping power is also increased with larger brake discs fitted: internally ventilated (345 mm diameter x 30 mm) at the front and externally ventilated (292 mm diameter x 20 mm) at the rear. Standard 235/45 R-18 tires ensure excellent mechanical grip for the 18-inch alloy wheels.

The powerhouse at the heart of the Turbo X is a 24-valve, 2.8-liter V6 turbo engine generating 400 Nm of torque between 2,150 and 4,500 rpm and maximum power of 280 hp (206 kW) at 5,500 rpm. The advanced specification includes a lightweight, all-aluminum construction with a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks for perfect balance, variable inlet valve timing and twin-scroll turbocharging. It is offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
This responsive, high torque powerplant is the perfect partner for Saab XWD. Together, they give the Saab Turbo X sporty, all-wheel-drive performance and handling characteristics that will appeal to all enthusiastic drivers who seek a rewarding experience behind the wheel.

Saab Black Turbo Reborn
Distinctive Jet Black color in homage to first Saab 900 Turbo
Functional sports bodystyling raises aerodynamic efficiency
'Turbo heritage' boost gauge and personalized driver display

The Saab Turbo X visually communicates its focus on driving performance by extending the bold, progressive design themes of the new 9-3 range. Offered only in metallic jet black, with the front grille and all exterior detailing accented in a matte grey titanium-like finish, it represents a contemporary expression of its illustrious black 900 Turbo forebear.

Distinctive styling additions are designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency, as well as emphasize the Turbo X's performance focus. At the front, a deeper lip spoiler and integrated air intake contribute to reduced drag while also increasing air flow to the engine and intercooler.

At the rear, the re-profiled bumper and insert panel lowers the point of air flow separation, further reducing drag and assisting high speed stability. The Sport Sedan features a rear spoiler that extends the line of the trunk deck, reducing high speed lift forces at the rear axle. The standard SportCombi already has a similar spoiler that extends the rear roof line.

The Turbo X is further distinguished by unique, 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch available as an option outside US/Canada markets) with a grey titanium-like finish that evokes the look of Saab's classic three-spoke design. Twin, rhomboid-shaped tailpipes complete the exterior additions.

Inside, the 'black turbo' theme is continued throughout the cabin. The sports seating, with additional bolstering, is upholstered entirely in black leather. The sporty ambience is further emphasized by a carbon-fiber finish to the main fascia, door inserts, glove box and gear shift console which is unique to the Turbo X.

The driver benefits from improved 'feel' through the addition of a thick-rimmed, soft grip leather steering wheel. Seating comfort can be taken a step further with an optional premium, natural leather interior, which includes perforated bolsters for the front seat squabs and backs.

In recognition of Saab's turbo heritage, the Turbo X boost gauge is a replica of the original 900 Turbo display. Owners will also enjoy a personalized greeting when they get behind the wheel and switch on the ignition. A unique 'Ready For Take-off' message ('All Systems Go' in US/Canada) flashes in the main instrument display. The owner's name, with the edition number of the car, can also be programmed for display by the supplying dealer.

Saab Turbo X

Technical Specifications
Engine:
2792cc. V6. Aluminum cylinder heads and block. Twin-scroll turbocharger, intercooled. DOHC, 24-valve. Variable valve timing (inlet). Dual-mass flywheel. Bosch Motronic ECM
Max power: 280 hp (206 kW) @ 5,500 rpm. Max. torque: 400 Nm @ 2,150 - 4,500 rpm
Bore/stroke: 89.0/74.8 mm. Compression Ratio: 9.5: 1. Max. Boost Pressure: 0.8 bar.
Transmission:
Saab XWD, all-wheel-drive. Electronic rear limited-slip differential (eLSD)
6-speed manual or automatic gearbox
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson struts and gas shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Hydroformed sub-frame.
Rear: Indep, four link, incl. toe-link. Coil springs and self-levelling shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Sub-frame.

Steering:
Rack and pinion, hydraulic power assistance. Turning circle (curb to curb): 11.7m.Lock to lock: 2.75 turns
Wheels, Tires:
18 x 7.5" , 235/45R18,
19 x 7.5" , 235/40R19,
Brakes:
Hydraulic, dual circuit, vacuum booster. Discs: 345 mm / 292 mm (all ventilated)

Performance Data
(preliminary figures)

0 - 100 kph: Sport Sedan: 5.7 secs (manual)
SportCombi: 5.9 secs (manual)
80 - 120 kph (5th gear): Sport Sedan: 7.9 secs
SportCombi: 8.3 secs
Top Speed: Sport Sedan: 250 kph (manual)
SportCombi: 250 kph (manual)

Fuel consumption/CO2 (combined cycle, L/100km):
Sport Sedan: 10.9 / 259 gm/km (manual)
SportCombi: 11.0 / 263 gm/km (manual)

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