SAAB9-3X 2009 - 2012

　　In its quest for survival, the Swedish car-maker Saab tried to enter the ascending market of the crossover with the 9-3X. It was launched in 2009 and it ended its short career in 2011.

　　Saab 9-3X was one of the last new products developed under GM ownership. The company was sold to the Dutch manufacturer Spyker N.V. In January 2010. The car was a 93 station-wagon on stilts. In 2010 the market started to shift toward the more practical and appealing crossover vehicles and the 9-3X was right on that segment. But it was too late.

　　The bodywork was a carry-over from the 93 station-wagon. The bumpers, side sills, wheel arch covers, and round exhausts were enough to give the X its identity. It was raised 35 mm (1.38”) when compared with the regular, non X version. On top of the car, a new set of roof-rails was added.

　　Inside, it was difficult to spot a difference between the X and the non-X version on the dashboard. But there were some storage areas and in the trunk, where a 12v power outlet was installed. A TwinFloor stowage facility also helped to keep the luggage compartment tidy.

　　The Saab 9-3X was available with either a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline unit or a twin-turbo 1.9-liter diesel. Both versions were mated as standard with a 6-speed manual, and a 6-speed automatic was on the options list. Only the gasoline-powered unit was available with all-wheel-drive. The rear limited-slip differential was electronically controlled.

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