Spied: Saab 9-4x

[nsap]

Spied: Saab 9-4x
By: NSAP

View Photos at AutoBlog


Here you have it...the first clear shots of the upcoming 2010 Saab 9-4x. The 9-4x will be based on the Theta-Epsilon platform that will be shared with the Cadillac BRX and possibly a Buick variant. Obviously the production model will share many styling cues with the recently-introduced 9-4x BioPower Concept. The grille and much of the front fascia appear to be shared with the concept. Size-wise the Saab will be larger than the Saturn Vue, but smaller than the next-generation Chevrolet Equinox.

Possibly the most notable news here is the interior. As seen from the above shot, the interior of the 9-4x appears to be very similar to that of the concept, which is their new interior design direction. The new direction builds on their cockpit-like design that was shown on the AeroX Concept. Fully-integrated switchgear, Bluetooth, navigation, an over sized moon roof, and all of the other goodies are anticipated.

We have not heard much in regards to the powertrains of the 9-4x, but expect a range of gas engines and a diesel. There is talk of a turbocharged High-Feature V6 that could show up, as well as a 250 HP diesel. We have yet to hear specifics on the turbo HF as there is more than one in development, but the 2.8L turbo from the 9-3 or a 3.0L turbo is likely. Naturally, the 9-4x will use GM's six-speed automatics. Power will likely reach the 9-4x's front wheels, but Saab's XWD system will be optional. Although the diesel is obviously for the European market, it is expected that it will be available in the North American market as well.

Production of the 9-4x is slated to begin in late 2009 at GM's Ramos Arizpe, Mexico plant and will be sold globally.

[63GrandSport001]

If only GM was going as fast with cars as they are with trucks and SUVs............

[I-Love-Pontiac]

Another SUV? Oh excuse me, "crossover". Booooring. SAAB should stick with cars IMO. I want to see something small and nice out of them.

[FenwickHockey65]

Hmmm...not so sure that Buick needs one...I don't want to see this turning into another GMT-360 fiasco...

[mgescuro]

I hope Saab does well with the 9-4. They really need something.
Unfortunatley, I think the 9-4 is too large for Saab. I'd hope for a 5 seat sport version, but I won't hold my breath.

[KIDDIESEL79]

Buick? I'd say go, only if it's exported to China.

[jbernie]

Originally Posted by I-Love-Pontiac

Another SUV? Oh excuse me, "crossover". Booooring. SAAB should stick with cars IMO. I want to see something small and nice out of them.

Actually, Saab did their research, the main reason they were losing sales was they didn't have an SUV in the lineup so the people who wanted a Saab SUV/CUV went over to the local Volvo, BMW, Mercedes etc dealership to purchase a new vehicle. Unfortunately the 9-7x was a quick to market but not the right product vehicle. The 9-4x gives Saab a unique CUV/SUV in their product line which will be more attractive to the buyers.

[GMusa]

I hope this Saab is awesome!.. Saab really needs a hit!

[mgescuro]

Originally Posted by jbernie

Actually, Saab did their research, the main reason they were losing sales was they didn't have an SUV in the lineup so the people who wanted a Saab SUV/CUV went over to the local Volvo, BMW, Mercedes etc dealership to purchase a new vehicle. Unfortunately the 9-7x was a quick to market but not the right product vehicle. The 9-4x gives Saab a unique CUV/SUV in their product line which will be more attractive to the buyers.

Yes, they did their research. And the 9-7X was launched half-baked.... not even half-baked. Saab forgot to add the flour.
What's even sadder is the 9-7X is outselling the 9-5.

Will the 9-4 be more attractive to buyers? Perhaps.
Will it be competitive with the Q5, the ML, and the XC90? Or will it compete with CTX (aka the BRX)??
Or will the 9-4X and CTX have the same powertrain, suspension setup, etc etc etc, but have different grills and taillights? Just like the Lambdas!!??

[asrapid]

I would rather see new 9-5 then this. Saab really needs new sedans in their lineup.
I see there is mention of new 2. 8l or even 3.0l with turbocharger? Will we ever see something like present 3.6 l with turbochargers from GM or is that out of the question. I don't see reason why GM is waiting with TT for 3.6 l V6? There has been such engine in concept form.

[Aprime]

GM's '10 interiors are really looking good from the spyshots we've seen.

Can't wait.

[Koasterking]

Damn, too much camofluoge. Looks good, I guess...

[I-Love-Pontiac]

Originally Posted by jbernie

Actually, Saab did their research, the main reason they were losing sales was they didn't have an SUV in the lineup so the people who wanted a Saab SUV/CUV went over to the local Volvo, BMW, Mercedes etc dealership to purchase a new vehicle. Unfortunately the 9-7x was a quick to market but not the right product vehicle. The 9-4x gives Saab a unique CUV/SUV in their product line which will be more attractive to the buyers.

Right. I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that SAAB's current line up sucks.

[ChevroletRevived]

I loved the both the Provoq and 9-4X concepts, so I'm espessially glad to see the productions vehicles adhering very close to them. What's really exciting is here is like NSAP said; the 9-4X interior looks to be making it to production. I was really excited about what I saw from the concept, it's exactly what Saab should be aiming for.

[stevecmh]

if it looks anything like the concept i would want it