The 2.0 Turbo petrol engine delivers a potent 210hp and thus conforms to Saab's right-sizing principal by producing the power of a larger engine but with the fuel economy and lower emission benefits of a smaller 2.0 litre capacity thanks to a turbo charger. This all-alloy engine also produces 221lb ft of torque (300Nm) between 2,500-4,000rpm and can accelerate the 9-3X from 0-60 mph in just 8.2 seconds. Both a six speed manual and automatic transmission are available.The diesel variant, a 1.9 TTiD twin turbo engine produces an impressive 180hp and a punchy 295 lb ft (400Nm) of torque through the front wheels, but still keeps emissions low with 144 g/km. This engine, too, will be available with manual and automatic transmission.
Form meets function in stowage area
The 9-3X is designed to make loading sports and leisure equipment easy: the rear cargo area with a low floor is surprisingly spacious and well-proportioned, and the compact design of the rear suspension allows a deep box-like space, free from intrusions, offering a useful rear seat up/down volume of 419/1287 litres (VDA).
The 60/40 split seat-back incorporates a ski-hatch and folds down without any need to move the fixed seat cushion. The fully carpeted rear load space is illuminated by two interior lights mounted on the inside of the D-pillars. It is accessed by a lightly-weighted tailgate that opens down to bumper level, its damper rods completely hidden in the roof to allow a clear, uncluttered opening. The flush-fitted, black moulded floor plate helps to protect against marks or scratches on the bumper during heavy use.
The 9-3X's TwinFloor stowage facility also helps keep luggage and equipment safe and tidy. The middle section of the floor hinges upwards transversely when the handle is pulled so that the front edge fits into two retaining slots.
There is also a 12-volt power socket in the main load area (for a hot or cool box) and a separate storage compartment at either side of the floor, one fitted with a moulded holder for large bottles.
Marketing
The long running Saab/Salomon promotional partnership with be used in the UK as the main launch platform for the new Saab 9-3X. The car will be the featured vehicle at the popular Saab/Salomon trail running series where its excellent performance on gravel tracks will be well suited to athletes who want a performance vehicle that can take them all the way to the start of the trail.
The target market for the 9-3X is modern individuals - independent minded people who enjoy life, culture, outdoors, sports & family. These are people with active lifestyles who have demands for versatility.
17 images and 96 seconds of running footage will be available for you to download on the global Saab media website
SAAB 9-3X: UK TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND PERFORMANCE DATA
Petrol
1998 cc. 4 cylinders in-line. Aluminium cylinder head and block. Turbocharger, intercooled. DOHC, 16-valve. Balancer shafts. Saab Trionic 8 engine management system.
Diesel
1910 cc. 4 cylinders in-line. Aluminium cylinder head, cast iron block. DOHC 16-valve. Common rail, direct and multiple injection. 2-stage turbocharger, intercooled. Dual-mass flywheel. Bosch engine management system. Maintenance-free particulate filter
Driveline - 6-speed manual gearbox. 6-speed automatic transmission, incl. Saab Sentronic manual selection. Petrol: Saab XWD, all-wheel drive system, with rear electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD)
Suspension - Front: MacPherson struts, gas shock absorbers. Anti roll bar. Isolated hydro-formed sub-frame. Rear: Independent, four link, incl. toe-link. Coil springs. Gas shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Isolated sub-frame
Wheels, Tyres - 17 x 7 alloy, 225/50 18 x 7.5 alloy, 235/45 optional on XWD 18 x 7.5 alloy, 225/45 optional on FWD
Steering - Rack and pinion. Petrol: hydraulic power assistance. Diesel: Electro/hydraulic power assistance. Lock to lock: 2.67 turns. Turning circle (kerb to kerb): 10.8 m
Brakes - Dual rate vacuum booster. ESP, ABS, TCS, MBA, EBD, CBC. Discs (f/r): 302/292 mm, both ventilated
Weights - Kerb: 1605-1820 kg. Distribution: 57/43% (f/r) XWD 60/40% (f/r) FWD Max. towing weight: 1500 kg (braked), 750 kg (unbraked)
Capacities - Luggage (VDA, dm3,): 419/ 1287, rear seat down Fuel tank: 61 litres (Diesel 58 litres) Washer reservoir: 5.2 litres