It’s Saab’s Freelander!

	The 9-4X will take styling inspiration from the Aero X seen at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show

Take a look at Saab’s all-new compact SUV. Our spies caught this mule for the long-awaited 9-4X during a break in testing – but don’t be fooled by its lack of disguise.

This prototype is wearing Chevrolet badges on its tail and bodywork from the defunct 9-6X project. That model was based on Subaru Tribeca underpinnings, but was ditched when Saab’s tie-up with the Japanese firm ended in 2005. Cunning engineers decided it would provide the perfect disguise for the smaller 9-4X, which will go head-to-head with compact off-roaders such as the BMW X3 and Land Rover Freelander.

Using the XWD four-wheel-drive set-up available in the refreshed 9-3 line-up, the 9-4X will take styling inspiration from the Aero X seen at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show.

A near production-ready concept will be unveiled at January’s Detroit expo, with the final 4x4 due to hit UK showrooms at the start of 2009. It will come with a choice of engines, including the new 178bhp 1.9-litre twin-turbo diesel from the 9-3.