The 9-4X is a legacy of Saab’s past under General Motors ownership, though. Not only does it share a platform with the Cadillac SRX, but it will also be built alongside that vehicle by GM in Mexico.
But the 9-4X’s looks don’t betray those connections, and it features typical Saab styling cues including the wraparound effect windscreen, gently tapering roofline, ‘hockey stick’ waistline and deep front grille. Wheels are 18” six-spoke alloys on entry-level versions, while Aero variants get 20” nine-spoke ‘turbine’ items.
On the inside there’s a driver-focussed dashboard, which Saab predictably maintains is reminiscent of an aircraft cockpit. The cabin is reckoned to be large enough for five adults, and the driver’s seat gets eight-way power adjustment as standard. Meanwhile, luggage capacity in the 9-4X can be increased by folding down the 60:40 split rear seats which, when lowered, gives a completely flat load space without the need to move the seat base cushions or remove the rear head restraints.
Regarding engines, the choice is limited to two V6 petrols, both of which drive through a six-speed automatic transmission and Saab’s XWD all-wheel drive system. First up is a direct injection 3.0 litre unit which, unusually for Saab, is normally aspirated. Without a turbo, it manages an output of 261 bhp (195 kW / 265 PS) which will accelerate the 9-4X from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 9.0 seconds.
The more powerful option actually has a smaller capacity - 2.8 litres - but twin scroll turbocharging allows it to produce 296 bhp (221 kW / 300 PS) and 400 Nm of peak torque, which is usefully available between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. 0-62 mph (100 km/h) takes 8.3 seconds, but this engine is only available with the Aero trim level.
Top speed, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures have yet to be released for either engine. There’s also no sign of any diesels yet, although that will probably be rectified by the time the 9-4X makes it to Europe.
It’s claimed that the chassis set-up on the 9-4X will give car-like ride and handling good enough to challenge the current best in class. Furthermore, customers going for the Aero spec will get Saab DriveSense, which changes the behaviour of the dampers according to how the car is being driven and the type of road surface. It also allows the driver to switch from the default ‘Intelligent’ mode to ‘Sport’, ‘Comfort’ or ‘Eco’, the last of which re-maps the throttle pedal and gear change patterns to minimise fuel consumption.
North America will get the 9-4X first, with sales due to start in May 2011. Europe and other markets will have to wait a few months more though, as August is the planned launch date for those territories. Pricing - and presumably news of a diesel version - will be announced shortly before sales commence.
