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At the Geneva motor show in March, Saab will introduce the
9-3X -- a new addition to the 9-3 range available as of Model
Year 2010.
The Saab 9-3X is a rugged all-round car designed to take active
individualists to the start of their adventure. With distinctive
looks, a versatile SportCombi body, higher stance and advanced
all-wheel drive technology, the 9-3X offers fuel efficiency and
functional storage without limiting the kinds of roads that need
to be driven. It is the ideal alternative to large and heavy crossovers
or SUVs.
For the first time, Saab couples its E85-capable BioPower engine
technology with the acclaimed Cross Wheel Drive (XWD) system. The
9-3X is also available with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine. A 1.9
TTiD diesel variant comes with front-wheel drive. All three fuel
variants are efficient, four-cylinder engines turbocharged for
added power. Overall, the 9-3X embodies Saab’s EcoPower Technology
philosophy, combining a dynamic driving experience with an efficient
use of resources to achieve responsible performance.
New Saab 9-3X on test in Southern Sweden
Distinctive Appeal
Saab designers raised the chassis 35 mm higher than that
seen on a standard two-wheel drive SportCombi so it can handle
a rugged driving terrain. It is specifically designed for those
who frequently hit gravel or unpaved roads, without compromising
the driving experience on asphalt.
The Saab 9-3X is a car in tune with the less-is-more needs of today’s
customers. “The 9-3X is an efficient all-rounder for anyone who
doesn’t want or need an SUV- type vehicle,” says Simon Padian,
Saab Brand Design Chief. “Simply put, we are offering a trekking
shoe that will do what’s required in more comfort and style than
a heavier mountaineering boot.”
New front and rear bumpers feature a dark gray, grained finish
that is also applied to the side sills and the edges of the wheel
arches as a protective covering when the terrain becomes loose
or muddy. This treatment is complemented by skid panels with a
matt aluminum finish, curving up towards the door opening at the
rear and adopting a wing form in the lip of the lower front bumper.
These are matched by matte, aluminum-colored lower door decor strips.
Black roof rails are standard, with a chromed finish available
as an option. Visible, twin round exhaust tailpipes are standard
for all engine options. Front fog lights ringed with a chrome finish
add yet another rugged accent.
With the addition of newly designed, multi-spoke 17-inch alloy
wheels, the 9-3X’s exterior character reflects its ability to handle
mixed road conditions, whether rough or smooth, loose or paved.
Inside, the 9-3X interior is based on top-of-the-line specification,
adding a dark metallic finish to the door trims, glove box and
gearshift surround. The unique sports seating features gray fabric
inserts in the black leather upholstery.
Total Traction
At the heart of the 9-3X is Saab’s cutting-edge XWD system.
It is an intelligent, active system that continuously distributes
engine drive torque between the front and rear axles as required
for optimum stability and grip in all conditions.
The hardware includes an electronically-controlled Torque Transfer
Device (TTD), which varies power delivery between the axles. A
valve increases or reduces hydraulic pressure on wet clutch plates
inside the TTD to progressively engage or disengage the rear axle.
The degree of ‘slip’ dictates how much drive is transmitted to
the rear wheels. An optional rear limited slip differential (eLSD)
operates on the same principle, splitting drive across the axle
to whichever wheel has more grip.
For the first time the 9-3X mates a 2.0-liter turbo BioPower engine
(210 hp/ 155 kW/ 300 Nm) with XWD, combining a bioethanol capability
with all-wheel drive. The six-speed manual gearbox complements
the sporty styling. As part of the Swedish-manufacturer’s rightsizing
strategy, it is also offering a 2.0-liter gasoline turbo with similar
output. The gasoline engine is fitted with six-speed manual or
automatic transmission.
The diesel variant, a 1.9 TTiD two-stage turbo motor (180 hp/132
kW/400 Nm) with front wheel drive, emits less than 145 grams of
CO2 per kilometer. This engine, too, will be available
with manual and automatic transmission. Unlike the other models,
this 9-3X variant has a chassis raised 20 mm higher than regular
9-3 variants with front wheel drive, maintaining that rugged styling.
Form meets function in stowage area
Regardless of the motor chosen, the 9-3X also is designed
to make loading sports and leisure equipment easy, matching form
with function. The rear cargo area, with a low floor, is surprisingly
spacious and well-proportioned. The compact design of the rear
suspension allows a deep box-like space, free from intrusions,
offering a useful rear seat up/down volume of 477/1331liters (VDA).
The 60/40 split rear seat-back incorporates a ski-hatch and folds
down without any need to move the fixed seat cushion. The fold-down
front passenger seat-back also makes it possible to carry 2.5 meter-long
items.
The fully carpeted rear load space is illuminated by two interior
lights mounted on the inside of the D-pillars. It is accessed by
a lightly-weighted tailgate that opens down to bumper level, its
damper rods completely hidden in the roof to allow a clear, uncluttered
opening. The flush-fitted, black molded floor plate will not become
marked or scratched in heavy use.
The 9-3X's TwinFloor stowage facility, too, helps keep luggage
and equipment safe and tidy. The middle section of the floor hinges
upwards transversely when the handle is pulled so that the front
edge fits into two retaining slots.
There is also a 12-volt power socket in the main load area (for
a hot or cool box) and a separate storage compartment at either
side of the floor, one fitted with a molded holder for large bottles.
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