Saab 9-3X to debut

Good to see Saab pushing ahead, despite the grief they have with parent GM. We brought you information on the 9-4X a couple of days ago, and now Saab has released details of their 9-3X crossover, that will début in Geneva next month.

Saabs are very individual, and have a strong, although small, following. And on the whole what Saab does it does pretty well. But I can’t say I’m overjoyed with their PR speak on the press release for the 9-3X. It waffles on about ‘Active Lifestyles’ and how the 9-3X is ‘in tune with lifestyle needs of today’s custom’; ‘Modern individuals – independent minded people who enjoy life, culture, outdoors, sports & family’. It’s drivel. Really.

Saab 9-3X crossover - to launch at Geneva in March

But the car looks pretty good, at least the petrol version. Unfortunately, the diesel is a bit of a pretender and only has 2-wheel drive. So where’s the benefit in that? Shame.

But let’s concentrate on the petrol version. It comes with a raised suspension (35mm) and decent all-wheel drive technology (XWD). The all-wheel drive has a proper torque transfer device to split the load between the axles properly, and gets an electronic slip-diff as well. The 2.0 litre turbo engine provides an adequate 210bhp and offers 0-60mph in 8.2 seconds.

You get a set of chunky bumpers, roof rails and side sills, and a set of fancy alloys. The inside gets a bit of a re-trim and some decent seats. The load area at the back is pretty capacious, and it’s plastic lined. Obviously all this will appeal to ‘Modern individuals – independent minded people who enjoy life, culture, outdoors, sports & family’!

But I’m being a bit disingenuous – the marketing-speak drivel is just that irritating. This is actually a sound car. If you don’t want a full-size SUV (and people decrying you as a planet killer!) then a rufty-tuft estate is a good option. Think of it as a cheaper option to the Audi A6 AllRoad. But ignore the diesel, unless Saab give it a proper treatment, and go for the petrol car.

But do make sure you have an ‘Active Lifestyle’, or you may not get in the Saab showroom.