Sam Memmolo
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Saab 9-2X
The new 2005 Saab 9-2X is the next significant step in the biggest product development program in Saab’s history. Saab – the fastest growing European premium car brand in the American market– recently launched the 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-3 Convertible model ranges. Now the new 9-2X continues this product offensive. With standard full-time all-wheel-drive, powerful engines, and distinctive European design, the Saab 9-2X is a unique and early offering in a car segment just emerging in the American market: the premium sports compact segment. The first Saab 9-2X models will go on sale in the U.S. and Canada July 1, 2004 – ahead of many competitors who are also bringing products to this market. “The Saab 9-2X is the ideal addition to our line-up,” says Peter Augustsson, Saab’s President and CEO. “Like the recently-launched Saab 9-3 models, it is extremely dynamic and is a car that you want to drive. Additionally, its price point will attract some new, young, enthusiastic customers to Saab.” For many customers, the Saab 9-2X will be their first premium brand vehicle as prices start below $25,000. In addition, customer surveys show that up to 40 percent of all Americans are looking for all-wheel-drive in their next vehicle – a feature standard in all Saab 9-2X models, a distinct advantage as Saab enters this new segment. “The Saab 9-2X will help us continue our extremely strong momentum,” said Debra Kelly-Ennis, President of Saab Cars USA. “We are definitely on a roll. The 9-3 Sport Sedan is more than doubling the sales of its predecessor, we are in the midst of launching our all-new 9-3 Convertible, and this exciting new car will arrive in the early summer 2004.” The Design:
Progressive with a strong, dynamic character The new Saab 9-2X takes a number of styling cues from recently-presented Saab concept and production vehicles and presents Saab’s view on what a fun-to-drive, versatile 5-door vehicle should look like. “The Saab 9-2X needs to look as aggressive as its driving capabilities,” says Mauer. “Additionally, even though it is a functional 5-door vehicle, it shouldn’t look like a traditional hatchback. Therefore, we spent a great deal of time making sure it had a strong face and sleek Scandinavian lines.” The vehicle retains Saab’s now familiar curvaceous front that harmoniously integrates the typical three-hole-grille and the low horizontally emphasized headlamps that wrap around into the sides of the car. Below the bumper area, a pronounced air intake signals the dynamic potential of the new sports compact. On the top-of-the-line 9-2X Aero model, the clean line of the front hood is accentuated by a nicely integrated air intake that feeds air to the intercooler of the turbocharged engine. As with the 2004 Saab 9-5 Aero SportWagon, the horizontal lines in the design of the 9-2X’s rear end contribute to the car’s wide and powerful stance. Additionally, the rear apron’s dark accent provides a sporty flair. Performance:
Sporty and focused on the driver
The turbocharged and intercooled two-liter high performance DOHC 9-2X Aero engine produces 227 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 217 lb.-ft. (294 Nm) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. The power plant of the Saab 9-2X 2.5 is naturally aspirated and delivers 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm as well as a maximum torque of 166 lb.-ft. (225 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm. Both cars provide a standard 5-speed manual transmission; a 4-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. “The Saab 9-2X is the best example yet of Saab’s brand promise of delivering sporty, driver focused performance,” says Kjell-Åke Eriksson, Saab Executive Director for Future Products. “It is truly designed for people who love to drive, whether that be on a demanding section of a curvy road or during a relaxed long-distance drive on the highway.” Five-door Versatility:
Form follows function Weighing in at just under 3,100 pounds (1,400 kilos), all 9-2X versions return excellent highway mileage anticipated to be in the 26 to 28 mpg range. Peter Augustsson, Saab Automobile’s President and CEO, puts the launch of the Saab 9-2X in broader perspective: “The Saab 9-2X is a milestone in expanding our model range and our customer base, especially in the very important North American market. We see a rapidly emerging segment in the United States for a premium, small car below the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan. And being one of the first entries, we intend to shape that segment.” Information in this release is based on specifications which were valid at the time of final editing (November 2003). Technical specifications and equipment may be altered without prior notice.
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Early entry in emerging
premium sports compact segment