Saab Turbo X: Back In Black

Motoring Channel Staff - 14/September/2007

Frankfurt, Germany — The Frankfurt Motor Show was awash with some innovative green cars, vehicles that will usher in a new era in low emissions motoring. But at the same time it was also home to a number of mega powerful sports cars.

Usually known for its safe, environmentally friendly, and somewhat quirky cars, Saab used the German auto show to expose its all new hero model, the power packed Saab Turbo X. This is the car which will directly rival the Australian-made TRD Aurion when it arrives here, able to sprint from zero to 100km/h in just 5.7 seconds.

It's slightly quicker than the TRD Aurion in a straight line, yet has less power and an equal amount of torque. How does it achieve the quicker time? All-wheel drive. Or XWD as Saab calls it.

It represents one of the most powerful factory Saab's ever built and is supposed to evoke the look of the classic black Saab 900 Turbo. Powered by a 2.8-litre V6 turbo, the performance Saab develops 206kW (280hp) @ 5500rpm, while 400Nm of peak torque finds its way to the wheels @ 2150rpm.

As well as it's tuned-up V6 engine, the new Saab Turbo X gets a whole host of new features including a handful of new styling cues. The hot new Saab can be distinguished from it's compatriots chiefly by it's metallic jet black colour. It will not be offered in any other colour.

Aerodynamics have been enhanced at the front with a deeper lip spoiler and integrated air intake, which increases air flow to the intercooler. At the rear of the car the bumper has been re-profiled and according to Saab a new insert panel lowers the point of air flow separation, which helps to reduce drag and improve high speed stability. There's also a new rear spoiler.

The Saab Turbo X is further distinguished by unique 18-inch alloy wheels with a titanium-like finish that evokes the look of Saab's classic three-spoke design. Nineteen-inch rims are also available. One of the best visual features are the twin rhomboid-shaped tailpipes.

The cabin of Trollhättans sinister new sports car is suitably dark. As Saab explained, the sports seats are upholstered entirely in black leather, while the interior features carbon-fibre accents. The driver benefits from improved 'feel' through the addition of a thick-rimmed, soft grip leather steering wheel.

Combining with the Saab Turbo X's newfound power, the vehicle also employs an all-wheel drive system that gives the car it's remarkable 5.7 second zero to 100km/h sprint. The all-wheel drive or XWD system provides the car with more grip and traction in a straight line, but also through turns by transferring torque between the front and rear axles, but also between the rear left and right wheels.

Together with a modified chassis the new Saab Turbo X could be a very serious performance car. With a modified ESP that cuts in later and is less felt by the driver, and a 10mm lower ride height withstiffer springs and dampers to reduce body roll, the new Saab sounds like the real deal. It's even got self-levelling dampers are fitted at the rear.

Another interesting chassis development in the new Saab sports car is eLSD, an electronically-controlled, rear limited slip differential. 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.

Saab has strengthened the Turbo X's brakes too, with ventilated 345mm x 30mm discs at the front and and 292mm x 20mm at the rear. The tyres fitted to the 18-inch wheels are 235/45 R18, which should provide lots of grip.

Related Links:
- 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)