Geneva 2011: slight facelift for the 9-3

The 9-5 scored a small break with other models in its style and its new vintage, the 9-3 will be entitled to a little facelift to approach it (a little). Nothing too revolutionary to predict as the most important innovation, a more massive grille visible on this copy red picture taken in its production unit just before the current model in the catalog.

The only visible cliché is currently not very explicit, but let us hope to have more news soon that if restyled Saab 9-3 has actually show next March in Geneva.

Geneva 2011: slight facelift for the 9-3

The 9-5 scored a small break with other models in its style and its new vintage, the 9-3 will be entitled to a little facelift to approach it (a little). Nothing too revolutionary to predict as the most important innovation, a more massive grille visible on this copy red picture taken in its production unit just before the current model in the catalog.

The only visible cliché is currently not very explicit, but let us hope to have more news soon that if restyled Saab 9-3 has actually show next March in Geneva.

New Saab 9-5 SportCombi: single image to begin

This version of the Saab renewal will have its world premiere in the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in early March.

While his presentation had been announced for this afternoon , it was not until a few extra hours to explore this unique official photo available yet. A photo, however, sufficiently eloquent to realize that the SportCombi seems to be an aesthetic success.

Orders will be open from March when the first deliveries will take place from September to the declination which reproduce the basic features of the sedan.

New Saab 9-5 SportCombi: single image to begin

This version of the Saab renewal will have its world premiere in the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in early March.

While his presentation had been announced for this afternoon , it was not until a few extra hours to explore this unique official photo available yet. A photo, however, sufficiently eloquent to realize that the SportCombi seems to be an aesthetic success.

Orders will be open from March when the first deliveries will take place from September to the declination which reproduce the basic features of the sedan.

Saab Sports Cars Sedan Concept By Youngho Jong Design For 2025

Saab Sports Sedan Concept By Youngho Jong Design For 2025

Very clever, The Korean design student Youngho Jong is looking towards Saab’s future with his 2025 Advanced Warning System Vehicle concept, a rakish, four-door sport saloon, sport sedan with sport car coupe-like styling.

Saab Sports Cars Sedan Concept By Youngho Jong Design For 2025

Jong’s goal was to design a vehicle that would warn other drivers of impending danger. With his research showing that 50% of vehicles accidents are caused by carelessness, excessive speed and tailgating, Jong wanted to create a car that would warn other drivers to back off and drive with care.

Jong has put together a design for a 2025 Saab Concept that combines the elements of nature and human psychology fit to warn other vehicles of any impending danger. The 2025 Advanced Warning System Vehicle concept is a four door saloon that comes with various warning signals to alert other drivers when he vehicle is getting too close or is driving recklessly. The same amber slips are found on the front and sides of the vehicle. Jong took his inspiration from nature’s Fire Salamander, which uses its bright, menacing colours to ward off potential predators.

Saab Sports Cars Sedan Concept By Youngho Jong Design For 2025

Jong also mentions that the coolest part of this Saab Sport Sedan Concept is the body that is made of a soft, impact absorbing material that reduces pedestrian injuries and vehicle damage in collisions. He incorporate sharp edges and the colours red and yellow to further emphasises the possible danger.

All of this, it’s a very clever, if far-fetched solution to a very real problem we face in the world today. The technology Saab Sports Cars Sedan Concept By Youngho Jong Design For 2025 isn’t quite there yet, but it’s not too hard to believe that cars twenty years hence will use a system like this.

Saab Sports Cars Sedan Concept By Youngho Jong Design For 2025

LA Auto Show 2010: Saab 9-4X - Saab SUV blows to attack

The fact that the Swedes want to send a crisp, compact SUV from BMW X3 and Audi Q5 in the ring was no longer a secret anymore - after all, were the first studies were built in cooperation with GM. Saab now moves to Los Angeles Auto Show 2010 the cloth from the new four-wheel drive. The result is impressive: The 9-4X is a sporty crossover with beefy front, flared wheel arches and a slightly sloping coupe-like roof line, which is somewhat reminiscent of the smaller Range Rover Evoque. The basic version runs in front with 18-inch models, the flagship Aero with aluminum wheels with 20 inch thick on the right.

Sporty it is also under the hood of the new Saab: Even the front-wheel drive entry-level version (optional all-wheel) makes 265 hp. The three-liter suction with 302 Nm of torque, the SUV accelerates to 100 km in nine seconds The 300-hp 2.8-liter turbo (400 Nm) is required for the standard sprint even just 8.3 seconds. Of diesel engines is still no question - but made his debut the 9-4X at first only in the U.S., where the diesel engine is also in this class of little importance. In August 2011, the following versions for the European market. Prices Saab calls yet. celebrates its official public debut of the 9-4x at the LA Auto Show

2011 Saab 9-4X - 3.0-liter V6 engine that develops 265 hp

It finally arrived this SUV that saabistes expect so much and he will rush to buy in 2011 (from August 2011 in Europe). an SUV which very closely the lines of X 9-4 Biopower concept car of 2008.

An SUV-looking solid (although a little mass) but not unpleasant to look at including the back which is pretty nice even if we would have wished a better integrated tailgate spoiler, we appreciate the taillights and two outputs exhaust boost the speed of the vehicle. To the front, there is the visual signature Saab adapted to an SUV. The X will be 9-4 in the first (and only?) Time, available in two versions, both engines and transmission.

We therefore Sliding the 9-4X with a base 3.0-liter V6 engine that develops 265 hp at 6950 rpm with a torque of 302 Nm at 5200 trs. This direct injection engine promises a Vmax of 210 km / h, a 0 to 100 km / h in 9.0 seconds and is available in 2 wheel drive or optional XWD transmission. The version equipped with the 2.8 L V6 Turbo delivers 300 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a torque of 400 Nm between 2000 and 5500 rpm, allowing it to reach 100 km / h in 8.3 seconds to reach the Vmax 230 km / h. Both engines are offered with BVA6 series. Saab has made a big effort to curb his SUV as ventilated discs of 345 x 30 mm pinched by dual piston calipers officiate at the front and cate ventilated 315 x 23 mm are doing their job back. The 9-4X is based on 18-inch wheels (235/65 R 18) on the basic version, a 20-inch (235/55 R 20) "Turbine look" at the Aero version.

2012 Model Saab 9-3 new design first photo

And with more dramatic styling than previous Saab, the next 9-3, a new electric four-wheel-drive system. Developed with engineering specialist American Axle, it provides as much as 10 percent better than front-wheel drive versions of the economy 9-3. Sources say the new 9-3 just under 4.7 million long and slightly wider than the current 9-3.

At least one version of the car will be from the UK-built 200 hp, 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with the Mini Countryman used supplies. Saab and BMW, gave the deal the day before this year's Paris show.
Saab would also cancel a supply deal for new diesel engines, but company sources are not drawn on the likely source, saying only that "both parties are open to exploring further opportunities in the context of this relationship in the future."

2011 Saab 9-4X : first official pictures of the SUV

The Saab 9-4X was nearly a Arles. This SUV Swedish repeatedly delayed because of a troubled situation, finally makes its nest and turns through two photos ... informal. Because yes, it has not been formally presented.

It will be shown a preview before the exhibition in Los Angeles in early November. We discovered today some differences with the lean concept herald Saab 9-4X Biopower January 2008. Yes already.

They reside in the design of the rear bumper and the size of the lower air intakes. Otherwise copy it. The cabin is close to the Saab 9-5 sedan by the privileged attending a private presentation.

2012 Saab 9-4X confirmed for LA debut in November

We've been expecting this announcement to come sooner or later, though we didn't exactly count on it coming from the LA Auto Show's own Twitter page. But there it is anyway, straight from the horse's mouth: "Saab has confirmed that the 9-4X Crossover will make its world debut at the LA Auto Show this Nov."

We're also expecting some sort of official word that the new crossover 'ute, which will share its Theta Premium underpinnings with the Cadillac SRX, should hit the market sometime in the spring of 2011... perhaps around April.

While we're on the subject of expectations, we'd also imagine that Saab will offer its premium crossover with the same powerplants as the recently released 9-5, which means we could see a 2.0-liter turbocharged four and a 2.8-liter turbocharged six, both likely mated with a six-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. We'll apparently find out for sure soon enough.


[Source: LA Auto Show's Twitter]

Saab has shown the new car 9-5

The Swedish motor-car manufacturer Saab belonging to Koenigsegg Company, has carried out official presentation of new car Saab 9-5. As have informed in the company, this sedan has marked a new mark in history of design and technologies of Saab brand.

New Business Sedan by Saab

Hi-tech Saab 9-5 should become alternative to business class sedans. According to official press release, the car is executed in new style — more expressional and thought over, than before.

New Saab 9-5 2010

The model equipment has been expanded at the expense of adaptive headlights, the cruise-control and system of displaying of the information on a windshield. Also, modern Saab 9-5 has received the new chassis and system of start of the engine without the ignition key.

2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan

2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan



2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan


2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan


2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan

2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible Luxury Sports Car

2010 Beijing Auto Show will be highlighted by the alternative-energy cars. Saab offers the 2010 model of diesel powered 9-3 Convertibles with 7% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions while keeping the performance as good as it was in older models. What the carmaker would like to emphasize is that there is no noticeable loss in performance.

2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible Sports Car

The 2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible handles as well as anything else out there. Steering and breaks on the Saab 9-3 Convertible's are masterfully engineered to be quick and sure. The standard engine pulls its weight with aplomb, and for those with a thirst for more power, the turbocharged 210-horsepower is deceptively quick.

Saab's new concert quality 300-watt sound system has no equal. Ventilation settings and seat positions can be saved in Saab'ss onboard computer. For those who seek even more performance, check our home page for links to retailers who offer 2011 Saab 9-3 convertible accessories you can order online. The BMW 3 Series interior space is not as large as the 2011 Saab 9-3 and neither is the trunk as cavernous. The new 9-3 is an above average entry-level luxury sports car that will give people cause to think twice about BMW.

There are two different versions of the 2011 Saab 9-3's new turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque are produced by the low-pressure turbo base engine coupled with a five-speed manual standard or a five-speed automatic.

The change is due in part to Saab’s ongoing EcoPower Technology development strategy, which concentrates on optimizing efficiency and minimizing the environmental impact of its products. The low emission diesel variants with the 150 hp/110 kW, single turbo 1.9-liter engine can generate 145 g/km CO2and fuel consumption of only 5.5 l/100 km over the combined cycle. Cars that have the 180 hp/132 kW, two-stage turbo power results to 144 g/km and 5.4 l/100 km. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h and top speed are largely unchanged. However, fifth gear 80-120 km/h times are raised by less than one second.

The high-pressure Saab 9-3 Convertible turbo engine option produces 210 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque with a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. The 2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible offers 205 horsepower from its turbocharged four-cylinder coupled to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

The new 2011 Saab 9-3 convertible comes as a 4-door, and a convertible, both of which are offered with a choice of three trim levels. The new 2011 "Linear" model comes with full leather seating, fabric door panels and gray trim in addition to a 150-watt stereo, keyless entry, the OnStar system, stability control and 15-inch alloy wheels. The "Arc" versions offers wood veneer and leather with poplar accents, power front seats, automatic climate control, a 300-watt audio system and 16-inch alloy wheels. (2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible facts)

The efficiency gains have been achieved by a series of fine-tuning measures including: the use of wider gear ratios, a longer final drive, idle and low engine speed remapping, and an optimized tire and wheel choice. These variants, which are offered only with manual transmission, are now being built in Trollhättan, Sweden, like all Saabs. In several markets, customers are offered with valuable CO2 tax-related benefits and are being introduced alongside 9-3 Sport Sedan and Sport Combi diesel models, which already feature the improvements.

Beijing 2010: BAIC (Saab) C60 and C71 and swappable batteries

It didn't take long for Beijing Automotive Industries Company (BAIC) to start making use of the old 9-3 and 9-5 tooling it bought from Saab last fall. After grafting on a new nose and taillights, both have been reborn as the C60 and C71.

It's not clear what's propelling the regular versions of these two reworked Saabs, however, there was a second ex-9-5 on display dubbed the C71EV. That version had a battery pack inserted into the floor and featured what BAIC was labeling as a fast battery switch system (ala Better Place).

The sign next to car claims a 90-mile range, but we think that's highly optimistic given the size of the sedan and the comparatively small battery pack. Of course, that's assuming this is actually a functional car.

Saab 9-2 vs MINI Cooper

Victor Muller, the chief executive of Dutch company Spyker, whose recent acquisition became brand Saab, has declared, that the Swedish motor-car manufacturer prepares the new compact car under name 9-2.

For true admirers

During conversation with journalists Victor Muller even has shown some sketches of the future car in which shape lines classical Saab 92 are traced, 93 and 96. According to director Spyker, the compact car for real admirers of production Saab.

Also Muller has noticed, that creation of competitor Volkswagen New Beetle, MINI Cooper and Fiat 500 is a priority problem of the Swedish company, but even approximate terms of an exit of a novelty on the market head Spyker to name has refused, as on realisation of the given project yet there are no financial assets.

New Saab 9-3 with Epsilon I

Victor Muller has confirmed the information that in 2012 in sale the new generation of model Saab 9-3 which will be constructed on the modernised version of platform Epsilon I will arrive. According to WCF, Saab 9-3 will receive a wide ruler of power units in which there will be a place of turbo-engines in volume from 1,6 to 2,8 litres.

New sedans 9-5, and in 2011 — a crossover 9-4X will appear in the summer of current year in salons of official dealers Saab, whose assemblage will be adjusted in Mexico.

Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Saab 9-5

To be honest, there have been points at which it felt like this new Saab 9-5 would never see the light of day. To say that the outgoing model had grown long in the tooth would be a colossal understatement, and in the hyper-competitive market that is the globe's entry-level premium segment, the 9-5 had become something of a placeholder, playing second fiddle to the automaker's newer, more dynamic 9-3. So with its own cheaper sibling playing the role of upstager and parent General Motors in the throes of bankruptcy, we didn't exactly have faith that Saab would ever launch this new sedan. But after an arduous development process and a new owner in the form of supercar maker Koenigsegg, the future looks – if not bright – at least markedly less dim.

If we sound like we're damning the 2010 9-5 with faint praise, we're not – after sitting in the car today at the Frankfurt Motor Show and talking extensively with members of Saab's team, we're actually rather optimistic that the perennially underweight automaker may yet emerge from its funk and put some rouge back in the 'ol Griffin. But until we drive it, we're going to reserve judgment before we break out the akvavit and reindeer steaks – we've been here before.

One thing's for sure – this new, larger 9-5 looks incredibly crisp in the metal. With clean flanks, a distinctive, cantilevered roofline paired with wraparound-look glass and handsome head- and tail lamp detailing, this is an attractive, cohesive design sans adornment – no gaping ducts, fender vents, or protruding aero addenda are in evidence anywhere. Very much in the Scandinavian mold, the 9-5 pulls design elements from the showstopping Saab Aero-X concept coupe and puts them in a real-world package. Similarly, like Scandinavian furniture, the design won't be to everyone's tastes.

Inside, there's gobs more space than in the outgoing car both front and rear, and the design has been tastefully updated in a driver-centric way that honors the marque's quirkiness (Night Panel button, eggcrate grid air vents, etc.) without becoming a caricature of Saabs past. Reinforcing the aeronautically-minded "Born From Jets" theme that had become something of a punchline with distractions like the 9-7x SUV, Saab has adopted new features like an optional heads-up display and a novel altimeter-like digital speedometer readout in case you aren't interested making use of the clear analogue gauges.

PRESS RELEASE:

All New Saab 9-5 Sedan: Start of a New Era for Saab

* Public debut for Saab's all new premium sedan
* Progressive Scandinavian design inspired by Aero X and Saab heritage
* Engineered with driver in focus for segment leading sporty driving experience
* Excels in responsible performance for safety and environmental concern
* Most technically advanced Saab with an array of 'high-tech' features

Making its public debut at the IAA in Frankfurt, the all new Saab 9-5 sedan signals the start of a new era for the Saab brand. Sleek, sophisticated and unmistakably Saab, it combines stand-out looks with advanced technologies and will bring a fresh alternative choice to the premium sedan segment when sales start later in model year 2010.

The clean, sculpted shape embraces the purity of Scandinavian design and its dramatic wraparound window graphic echoes Saab's aviation heritage. With frontal styling inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car and a muscular, low-slung stance, the new 9-5 heralds the introduction of a bold, more expressive design language.

The array of high-tech features on offer includes: an aircraft-like head-up information display (Pilot HUD); adaptive lighting (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); adaptive cruise control; Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; keyless entry and starting; tri-zone air conditioning; dynamic parking assistance and Saab XWD with a rear eLSD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system.

The all-turbo powertrain line-up starts at 1.6 liters and carries forward Saab's rightsizing engine strategy, which focuses on responsible performance through the development of highly efficient and relatively small four cylinder turbo engines. There is a choice of three fuels - gasoline, diesel and E85 bioethanol – and with diesel power, the new 9-5 offers CO2 emissions as low asn139 g/km.

"This car is the start of a new era for our brand," says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile's Managing Director. "We have created an advanced and very distinctive product by leveraging the power of our roots in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design, sporty driving and responsible performance. The new 9-5 delivers in all these respects, as will every future product from Saab."

Scandinavian Design

Forward-looking design that doesn't ignore where it's coming from – that sums up the visual appeal of the all-new Saab 9-5 sedan. "We are giving a fresh, very modern expression to some of our classic brand design cues," says Simon Padian, Saab Brand Design Chief. "We have taken visual themes in our recent concept cars, such as the Aero X, which are inspired by Scandinavian design and our brand's aircraft heritage."

The face of the new 9-5 is defined by a deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units. The entire glasshouse is presented as a 'wraparound' mono graphic, the disguised windshield and side pillars giving the cabin Saab's signature cockpit look. Squint slightly, and the proportions of the windshield and roof become reminiscent of the classic 900 model.

Viewed from any angle, the all new 9-5 cuts a strong and powerful stance. The 'organic sculpture' of the low-slung body blends clean, uncluttered lines with natural, curvaceous shapes. Brand design cues are evident in the 'hockey stick' belt-line, the strong rear C-pillars and the fuselage-smooth surfacing of the bodywork. The large Saab logo embossed in the center of the grille characterizes the more assertive, self-confident design language.

The car's dynamic character is emphasized by a falling roof-line that culminates in sweeping rear pillars which buttress a slightly recessed rear screen. Latent energy is conveyed by fenders that are subtly pulled out to melt into the wheels. Below that smooth, flat rear deck, a full-width, ice-block rear light bar wraps into signature lighting.

The new 9-5's overall proportions stretch the traditional three-box sedan silhouette, while avoiding the fastback cliché of a four-door coupé look.

Driver-focused cabin

Inside the spacious cabin, simple forms define its architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior. Compared to its predecessor, legroom is increased both front and rear. The choice of materials, the fit and finish and the tactile quality of the controls all reflect the new 9-5's premium appeal.

The driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab, while its execution is all new. The deep center console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by a neat ventilation zone. Deeply recessed main dials include a rolling 'altimeter' speed read-out, a reference to Saab's aviation heritage from the Aero X concept. Driver displays, including the optional head-up display (Pilot HUD) in the windshield, are predominantly illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance. The car's ignition, now a start/stop button, remains between the front seats, next to the gear shift.

Infotainment choices include a top-of-the-line harman/kardon surround sound audio system and an
8-inch touchscreen navigation system with hard disk storage for map data and 10 GB of jukebox-style music files. A large center console provides stowage and connections for several portable devices through USB and Aux ports alongside a 12V power outlet.

Rear passengers can access their own audio or watch a DVD. The rear seat entertainment unit in the back of the center console accommodates audio controls and fold-out viewing screens are installed in the front seat-backs. Wired and wireless headphones are provided for listening and viewing. The rear seat entertainment unit also includes twin air vents and an independent temperature control for the rear cabin, in addition to the dual zone air conditioning up front.

On the road

An array of chassis technologies is focused on delivering a sporty, rewarding driving experience that belies the 9-5's size. Saab XWD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system already available on the Saab 9-3, is offered with the 2.0-liter gasoline, BioPower and 2.8V6 turbo engines. Available throughout the range is adaptive chassis control with driver settings selection through Saab DriveSense, Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive lighting and intelligent cruise control. Two different suspension layouts are factory-fitted according to engine power and both are available with a sport chassis setting.

Saab has some 30 years experience in turbocharging engines and the all-turbo powertrain line-up in the new 9-5 further develops Saab's rightsizing engine strategy. At launch, the four cylinder choice comprises a 160 hp, 2.0-liter turbo diesel with CO2 emissions of just 139 gm/km and a 2.0-liter gasoline turbo developing 220 hp. A top-of-the-line 2.8V6 turbo, generating 300 hp and 400 Nm of torque, is offered exclusively with Saab XWD.

Shortly after launch, a small, 1.6-liter gasoline turbo with 180 hp will be introduced, together with a 2.0-liter BioPower E85-capable engine. All transmissions will be six-speed.

New era

Defined and equipped by Saab as its top-of-the-line contender in the premium sedan segment, the new 9-5 is the most technically advanced car ever produced by the company. It will be built at Saab's home plant in Trollhättan, where it has been engineered and chiefly developed.

Available in Linear, Vector or Aero specification, the all new 9-5 heralds the start of a new era for Saab. Scandinavian simplicity was never this advanced!

Saab prepares a new crossover

Crossover Saab 9-4X will be born even earlier, than it was expected. Representatives of the company have informed, that the car which has been shown for the first time on a motor show in Detroit last year, should go on sale in the end of 2010.

About a stuffing of a crossover a little that is known. Hearings go, that 9-4X will be created on platform Theta Premium developed General Motors on which it is constructed new Cadillac SRX.

Despite the fact that what mark Saab Swedish motor-car manufacturer Koenigsegg already owns, assemblage 9-4X will be carried out under the protection of GM. Say also, that crossover release will be carried out at factory General Motors in Mexico. The model 9-4X will replace a crossover 9-7X in ruler Saab.

Saab 9-X BioHybrid

Saab unveiled today the 9-X BioHybrid Concept, a preview version of the 2010 9-1, a model that will come to compete with models like BMW 1-Series. The 9-X BioHybrid evolves visual design themes from the award-winning Aero X coupe (shown Geneva 2006) and multi-dimensional 9X (shown Frankfurt 2001) concepts.


The 9-X BioHybrid Concept is powered by a 1.4-liter BioPower turbo engine, optimized for bioethanol (E85) fuel that delivers 200 hp. The 9-X BioHybrid explores the potential for using active aerodynamics to reduce drag – and fuel consumption – at cruising speeds. Above 70 kph (43 mph), the upper and lower bodywork is reshaped as the roof spoiler automatically extends to further lengthen the roof line and an underbody diffuser is deployed from the bottom of the rear bumper.


At the front, the deep grille, that concave styling line in the hood pressing and the ‘wraparound’ windshield are inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept shown at Geneva two years ago. The 9-X BioHybrid cuts a unique silhouette in compact car design. The longer roof line and ‘sawn off’ rear styling contributes to a better aerodynamic performance and provides more interior room than a conventional compact hatchback with a sloping screen and rear trunk lid deck.

Press release

The Saab 9-X BioHybrid concept demonstrates how Saab design values could be expressed in a future compact car format. It is focused on youthful customers, typical of the premium compact car segment. They seek and value progressive product design and efficient performance, with easy access to high-tech communications, as well as a sporty driving experience.

The bold execution of the 9-X BioHybrid evolves visual design themes from the award-winning Aero X coupe (shown Geneva 2006) and multi-dimensional 9X (shown Frankfurt 2001) concepts. Inside, it showcases an entirely new expression of Saab’s driver-focused cockpit design, as well as innovative seamless in-car connectivity for all personal nomadic devices. Smart rear functionality features a cargo deck with an automatic sliding floor and a ‘friction’ loading system.

The small yet powerful 200 hp (147 kW), 1.4-liter BioPower turbo engine, optimized for bioethanol (E85) fuel, is backed by GM’s next-generation hybrid system (see separate release for details) for efficient, environmentally-responsible performance.

“This concept redefines conventional compact car design.” says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab’s Managing Director. “It shows how progressive Saab design can be combined with smart features and responsible, rightsizing performance that is in tune with the expectations of younger buyers in this segment.”


Clean Scandinavian Design
With minimal bodywork overhangs, a wide stance and extended roof line, the three-door Saab 9-X BioHybrid brings a dynamic, new dimension to conventional ‘hatchback’ looks. The single window graphic, smooth ‘fuselage’ bodywork – without any visible handles or even door mirrors – and ‘ice block’ lighting themes draw on roots in Scandinavian design and Saab’s aircraft heritage.

At the front, the deep grille, that concave styling line in the hood pressing and the ‘wraparound’ windshield are inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept shown at Geneva two years ago. The car’s overall proportions and rear functionality are developed from the 9X multi-role concept shown at Frankfurt in 2001.

The 9-X BioHybrid cuts a unique silhouette in compact car design. The longer roof line and ‘sawn off’ rear styling contributes to a better aerodynamic performance and provides more interior room than a conventional compact hatchback with a sloping screen and rear trunk lid deck.

Touch-sensitive, keyless entry, eliminates the need for exterior door handles. And the use of small, retracting rear-view camera pods - instead of larger door mirrors - further contributes to the clean ‘fuselage’ effect, while also reducing aerodynamic drag at speed.

A large solar cell in the glass roof takes advantage of free energy from the sun by adding charge to the hybrid battery pack while the vehicle is parked and also when it is being driven.

At night, driving comfort is improved by automatic switching between high and dipped headlamps beams. A front -mounted camera monitors light sources on the road ahead and small shutters automatically ‘hood’ the high beam when on-coming traffic is approaching.


Active Aerodynamics
Echoing Saab’s roots in aircraft design, the 9-X BioHybrid explores the potential for using active aerodynamics to reduce drag – and fuel consumption – at cruising speeds. Above 70 kph (43 mph), the upper and lower bodywork is reshaped as the roof spoiler automatically extends to further lengthen the roof line and an underbody diffuser is deployed from the bottom of the rear bumper.
During heavy braking from over 100 kph (62 mph), the rear spoiler is raised, adding downforce over the rear axle. This action also reveals a reflector that increases the visibility of the brake light underneath, as a further warning of heavy braking.


Mould-breaking Interior
Innovative design is even more dramatic inside the four-seater cabin, upholstered in white leather at the front and black. Here, the 9-X BioHybrid introduces an entirely new execution of Saab’s driver-focused cockpit design. The central, floor-mounted console, with its angled controls and displays, is now eliminated. Instead, the driver- focused layout incorporates a main instrument panel that sweeps out from the top of the door moulding, arching across the driver. Only shared climate control and interior lighting functions remain in a small, central touch-sensitive panel.

The driver information zone is a flat, arc-shaped multi-layered acrylic surface, within which a row of five displays screens is embedded and illuminated in green 3-D graphics. This includes an ‘infotainment’ screen and control panel in the driver’s door moulding. Another ‘infotainment’ screen showing, for example, navigation with more in-depth information if selected, is located across the cabin for the front passenger. All displays and menus can be operated, adapted or minimized by the driver via controls on the fixed hub and rim of the steering wheel. The rear view camera screens are conveniently located above the main displays within the driver’s eye line.

White ambient lighting of the cabin is taken a step further by a selectable level of suffused illumination, varying in intensity from a bright, cold to warm and soft. This is a feature that could even be programmed, for example, to reflect the changing seasons


Seamless Communication
The potential for seamless wireless connectivity (Bluetooth or WiFi) with one or multiple nomadic devices (mobile phones, PDAs etc) is demonstrated by Saab’s co-operation with Sony Ericsson in developing an interface for streaming data, entertainment and satellite navigation functions for in-car display and use. The interface allows the simultaneous use of devices, such as a phone and MP3 player, when passengers are in the car.

The functions of the nomadic device are controlled by a screen in the car, for example, while it is kept in the user’s pocket. The smarter the device, the more functions in the car. Depending on the type of device, it can upload its own displays, as well as lock /unlock the car and even remotely change in-car pre-sets. It is all part of the concept’s vision in appealing to younger buyers who expect easy, on-the-move access to multi-media.


Smart Load-carrying
At the rear, the cargo deck features an electrically-powered slide-out floor, which is activated when the bottom half of the tailgate drops down over the rear bumper. The top section, hinged from the roof, can be opened separately so that smaller items may be dropped inside easily.

The entire floor area, and the back of the folding rear seats, is covered by ‘high friction’ rubber carpeting. When the tailgate opens, aluminum bars in the floor are automatically raised just above the level of the high friction surface, making it easy to slide items inside. When the tailgate is closed, the bars are lowered to allow the high friction surface to ‘grip’ items and hold them securely in place.

The ‘default’ setting for the rear seats is the folded down position, reflecting the fact that the youthful target buyers for such a car will use its load-carrying capability more often than they need to accommodate rear passengers.


Vision
The 9-X BioHybrid has been created by a team under Anthony Lo, Director of Advanced Design at General Motors Europe, working in co-operation with the Saab Brand Center in Sweden. .

“This car is about efficiency in design and performance,” he says. “We have taken exterior themes from our previous concept work, such as the clean surfaces and lighting treatments, and tuned them for a compact format.

“Inside the car, the new driver-focused design theme and the easy, seamless connectivity are both features we will be developing in future.”