With distinctive Scandinavian and aircraft-inspired looks, Saab says its new 9-4X offers car-like handling and ride characteristics that challenge class benchmarks.
Making its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the 9-4X expands Saab’s product portfolio to three car lines and will provide a fresh, alternative choice for independently-minded crossover buyers. It is an important next-step in the Swedish brand’s renaissance as an independent premium car manufacturer.
Muscular and promising to be sporty to drive, the 9-4X is aligned in looks and size between the 9-3X and new 9-5 saloon. Outside and inside, it communicates its Saab identity with clean, uncluttered design and signature motifs, such as its wraparound-effect windshield, ice block lighting theme, driver-focused cockpit and flexible cargo handling.
Indeed in true Saab tradition, the 9-4X delivers on its sporty persona. It is configured around a unique, purpose-designed crossover body structure, which has been key to delivering its exceptional handling and ride properties. Car-like driving dynamics are supported by Saab’s advanced all-wheel-drive system, XWD, and drive sense adaptive chassis control.
Under the bonnet nestles a compact and efficient V6 turbocharged engine. The 300hp, 2.8-litre twin-scroll turbocharging engine is mated to six-speed automatic transmissions under adaptive electronic control.
“The 9-4X significantly broadens the appeal of the Saab brand,” says Saab Automobile CEO Jan Åke Jonsson. “It gives us entry to the fast-growing crossover segment with a vehicle that reflects our brand values in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design and sporty, responsible driving performance. The 9-4X is an exciting package and we’re confident it will appeal to many existing Saab owners, as well as win new customers for the brand.”
The 9-4X goes on sale in North America in May next year, with sales of the long-awaited crossover in Ireland to start late in 2011.
