High-riding Saab has got X factor!

It's the closest Saab has got to an off-roader – and the new 9-3X has all the practicality of an executive estate.

The rugged model, due on sale in June, rides 35mm higher than the standard petrol Sport Wagon XWD, and 20mm taller than the oil-burner. Chunkier bumpers, a rear skid plate and plastic mouldings for the sills and wheelarches hint at its ability.

Aluminium lower door strips and roof rails are also fitted, while a set of 17-inch alloy wheels and twin exhaust pipes complete the design. Inside, the 9-3X gets a dark metallic finish on the door trims, glovebox and gearbox surround. Sports seats featuring black leather trim and grey fabric inserts are also included.

Power will come from Saab’s 2.0-litre petrol turbo and high-power 1.9-litre diesel Aero engines. But only the 210bhp petrol car gets the smart-thinking XWD four-wheel-drive set-up, which switches power between axles for better grip in slippery conditions.

While the 178bhp diesel makes do with front-wheel drive and slightly less ground clearance, it emits only 144g/km of CO2. The 9-3X is likely to cost around £28,000 when it hits showrooms, undercutting close rivals such as the Volvo XC70.