Saab's 9-3X served notice at the New York auto show that the Swedish company is ready to take on the likes of Subaru's Outback and Volvo's XC70. Boasting a SportCombi (wagon) body, tougher-looking exterior and a higher ride height, the 9-3X should be capable of some minor off-road skirmishes. Saab also feels the 9-3X will make an interesting alternative for those who are downsizing from a large SUV or crossover.
Developed and manufactured in Trollhattan, Sweden, a part of the world known for harsh driving conditions, the 9-3X doesn't just boast about its toughness: It backs it up, with a 1.4-in. higher ride height and Saab's technically advanced Cross Wheel Drive (XWD) system. Saab's XWD, first seen on the limited-edition Turbo X, is an active system which uses an electronically controlled Torque Transfer Device (TTD) to vary power between the front and rear axles as grip levels change. The rear axle also comes standard with a limited-slip differential.
Should you encounter mud, rocks, loose stones or tree branches during your adventure, new front and rear bumpers, as well as side skirts and extended wheel arches, are covered with a grained, dark gray material that is extra durable. Matte aluminum skid plates (front and rear) and multi-spoke 17-in. wheels complete the car's rugged styling.
U.S. 9-3Xs will come with one engine only, Saab's 207-bhp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. Buyers will have their choice of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.
Look for the 2010 Saab 9-3X at dealers by the fourth quarter of 2009, with prices announced later this year.
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