Saab 9-3X

11th February 2009

 SAAB’s 9-3X made its public debut at the Geneva motor show in March 2009, and joins the 9-3 line-up alongside the saloon, Sport Wagon and convertible versions.
 
The Swedish manufacturer claims that the 9-3X offers the ideal compromise between estate car and SUV.

Based on the 9-3 Sport Wagon estate, ait offers drivers a choice of two engines, inlcuding a 180hp 1.9-litre twin-turbo diesel, which comes with front-wheel drive, or a 210hp 2.0-litre turbo petrol which has the firm’s XWD four-wheel drive system.
 
The petrol 9-3X’s proper four-wheel drive system features a Torque Transfer Device which splits the engine’s power between the front and rear axles depending on which has the most grip.
 
This model is also jacked up by 35mm from standard wagon, compared to  the diesel's 20mm lift. SAAB’s designers have added chunky front and rear bumpers, side sills, roof rails and some flowery five-spoke 17-inch alloys too, while the interior gets new trim and special sports seats.