Saab 9-3X: Luxury All-Rounder

Motoring Channel Staff - 12/February/2009

Geneva, Switzerland — Saab has given us our first look at the new 9-3X model ahead of its Geneva Auto Salon debut next month.

Based on the 9-3 wagon, the new model is being touted as "the smart all-rounder for outdoor enthusiasts" and will rival vehicles like the Volvo XC70 and Subaru's popular Outback.

Featuring Saab's "XWD" all-wheel drive system, the Scandinavian car maker says the new model has been designed to handle rugged terrain.

The 9-3X has more ground clearance than its siblings with a 35mm (1.4-inches) raised ride height and is 'specifically designed for those who frequently hit gravel or unpaved roads, without compromising the driving experience on asphalt' according to its media statement.

Along with all-terrain tyres and the increased ground clearance, there are other changes to the design that contribute to the 9-3X's sense of adventure.

"The 9-3X is an efficient all-rounder for anyone who doesn't want or need an SUV- type vehicle," says Simon Padian, Saab's 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," explained Padian.

Like the Subaru Outback, the Saab 9-3X gets contrasting front and rear bumpers with a grained finish add yet another rugged accent, which is also applied to the side sills andthe edges of the wheel arches as a protective covering when the terrain becomes loose or muddy.

As Saab explains, this treatment is complemented by skid panels with a matte aluminum finish.

Black roof rails are standard and a chrome finish is available as an option. 

Round the back, twin round exhaust tailpipes are standard for all engine options adding a sense of power and the SportCombi's clear LED brake lights are retained. 

Newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels help further distinguish the 9-3X from its siblings and the interior has been touched up too. 

Based on top-of-the-line 9-3 model specification ensuring lots of luxury. A dark metallic finish covers the door trims, glove box and gearshift surround and black-on-grey leather trim will be standard.

The wagon-based off-roader has a 60/40 split rear seat-back that incorporates a ski-hatch, while the fold-down front passenger seat-back also makes it possible to carry 2.5 meter- long items in the car.

The fully carpeted rear cargo area has a low floor and a seat up volume of 477 litres and seat down volume of 1331liters.

Saab will advertise the new vehicle as an "ideal alternative to large and heavy crossovers or SUVs" and will offer the 9-3X with a number of powertrains.

For the first time, Saab will also offer its E85-capable BioPower engine technology with the Cross Wheel Drive (XWD) system. 

The 9-3X will be available with three 4-cylinder turbocharged engines, which are as follows:

2.0-litre Turbo Petrol
Power: 155kW (210hp)
Torque: 300Nm

2.0-litre Turbo BioPower
Power: 155kW (210hp)
Torque: 300Nm

1.9-litre Turbo Diesel
Power: 132kW (180hp)
Torque: 400Nm

The 1.9 TTiD diesel variant will come with front-wheel drive and is 15mm lower than the hardcore petrol version, and will most likely be the cheapest option. 

The turbo petrol/biofuel models feature XWD, which Saab calls an 'intelligent, active system' that splits engine torque between the front and rear axles 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’ dictateshow much drive is transmitted to the rear wheels.

An optional rear limited slip differential (eLSD) operates on the same principle, splitting drive horizontally between the left and right rear wheels to the wheel with more grip.

Six-speed manual gearboxes with be standard fitment, and a 6-speed automatic transmission will also be offered.

Will it be coming to Australia? 

At this early stage it hasn't been pencilled in for Australian delivery, but a GM Premium Brands (Saab, Hummer) spokesperson told the Motoring Channel "We think its a fantastic looking car and would be a real complement to the Saab line-up.

"We're defeintely taking an interest in the new model, but nothing as yet we have no plans [to bring the model to Australia]," stated the GM Premium Brands spokesperson.

Related Links:
- Saab Turbo X (2008)
- Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept (2008)
- Saab 9-3 Aero (Road Test)
- Saab 9-4X Concept (2008)
- Saab 9-3 (2008)
- Saab 9-3 SportCombi (2008)
- Saab 9-3 BioPower (2007)
- Saab 9-5 Linear (Road Test)
- Saab 9-5 (2006)