Saab 9-4X Concept: Scandinavian Crossover

Motoring Channel Staff - 9/January/2008

Detroit, America — The Saab 9-4X Concept made its debut at the 2008 Detroit Motor Show, presenting a new crossover vehicle from the Swedish brand.

The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept represents the basis for a new model from the European car maker, a crossover SUV that would rival vehicles like the Volvo XC90 and Mazda CX-9.

The design is the most important aspect of this new concept, featuring a recognisable Saab 'face', and will replace the 9-7X. 

Viewed from the side, there is also the trademark Saab window line. The LED rear lights are expected to be toned down for the production version.

This concept version is believed to be very close to the final production version, which will roll off the manufacturing lines in Mexico before year's end, according to Saab chief Jan Ake Jonsson. 

Sales are expected this year or early in 2009 and the vehicle will be sold predominantly in America and Europe.

It is still unknown whether the Saab crossover will be a five or seven seat vehicle.

As well as the new design which is aimed at luring American buyers (hence its Detroit Motor Show launch), the new model also features AWD (or XWD in Saab speak) and a choice of either petrol or diesel engines - both turbocharged.

The diesel engine has been developed by GM and VM Motori, and outputs 186kW (250hp) and a very serious 550Nm of torque.

The petrol engine seen in the Saab 9-4X Concept is a 2.0-litre turbo 4-cylinder BioPower unit and will output 182kW (245hp) and 353Nm torque when fuelled with normal petrol. These figures are hiked to 224kW (300hp) @ 5400rpm and 400Nm @ 2500rpm when E85 ethanol fuel is used.

Related Articles:
- Saab 9-3 BioPower (2007)
- Saab 9-5 BioPower (2008)
- Saab 9-3 (2008)
- Saab 9-3 SportCombi (2008)
- Saab 9-3 Aero (Road Test)
- Saab 9-5 Linear (Road Test)
- Saab 9-5 (2006)