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2005 Saab 9-2X
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| A blend of sport and economy |
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 22:51:17 |
| Rating |
 409 ( -46 -11.24% ) | | Author | Sue Mead |
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Description:
2005 Saab 9-2X
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2005 Saab 9-2X. Underneath the bumper (or bumper area, since the form transitions smoothly from top-to-bottom), a large air dam suggests sport potential.
2005 Saab 9-2X. Turbocharged models sprout a functional air scoop on the hood, which from the front, crowns the rest of the distinct façade.
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2005 Saab 9-2X. Although 5-doors are often associated with wagons, Saab's design engineers were careful here not to stigmatize the sporty 9-2X.
2005 Saab 9-2X. Inside, a mixture of grays, whites, blacks, and metallic cladding yields a subdued, somewhat business-like feeling.
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Saab is currently the fastest growing premium European car brand in American markets. This Scandinavian carmaker's most recent entry, the 9-2X, competes in what Saab calls the "premium sports compact segment." Consumers in this segment are "young and enthusiastic" and want distinctive styling, precise handling, and plentiful cargo-carrying--in a small package. And, a little juice under the hood doesn't hurt either.
The 9-2X, coincidentally, arrives this summer with an aggressive façade and a sleek profile, full-time AWD, and 5-door hatchback versatility. A high-output turbo-fed powerplant is also offered. Sounds pretty good if you're still young and enthusiastic.
Dynamic styling
Stare head-on into the 9-2X, and you know you're squaring off with a potent and lively machine. But, it's also instantly recognizable as a Saab. The familiar three-hole grille (large center trapezoid flanked by smaller ones) and the horizontally-emphasized headlights that wrap into the fenders indicate Saab lineage. Underneath the bumper (or bumper area, since the form transitions smoothly from top-to-bottom), a large air dam suggests sport potential. The foglights are also nicely integrated into the front fascia; they appear to emerge from dark cavities, again signaling a potential within the vehicle. Turbocharged models sprout a functional air scoop on the hood, which from the front, crowns the rest of the distinct façade.
Although 5-doors are often associated with wagons, Saab's design engineers were careful here not to stigmatize the sporty 9-2X. The C-pillar points forward dramatically, as if the passenger cabin and rear cargo-area have been slid against one another and locked together. The D-pillar is mostly transparent, hidden by the wrap-around glass that covers the tail end. A subtle spoiler mounts to the top of the liftgate.
Inside, a mixture of grays, whites, blacks, and metallic cladding yields a subdued, somewhat business-like feeling. The 9-2X is a machine with goals and purposes.
Two engines
Saab's purpose for the 9-2X, in one sense, is to transport passengers. The rate and manner in which this is to occur, however, is highly variable. Two engines are offered - both horizontally-opposed boxer engines, one naturally aspirated and the other turbocharged. The cylinders on these engines spin in parallel with the ground, rather than upright like in V or inline configurations. An advantage, therefore, is that power flows in a relatively straight, flat line as it moves to the transmission and differential.
Saab 9-2X Linear models arrive with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that creates 165 hp. at 5,600 rpm and 166 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Aero models lessen displacement but increase power thanks to the turbo that force-feeds the engine with air. The DOHC 2-liter boxer 4-cylinder, with a turbocharger and intercooler, spools up 227 hp. at 6,000 rpm and 217 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Both engines are backed by a standard 5-speed manual transmission, although a 4-speed automatic gearbox is also available.
Drivetrain essentials
Just as the horizontally-opposed boxer engines are a first in Saab history, so is the advanced full-time AWD system. Aero models use a viscous limited-slip differential in the back, to enhance traction and handling even further. Fully independent suspension, four wheel disc brakes, and 4-channel/4-sensor ABS provide insurance that each corner of the vehicle responds appropriately to the road conditions.
Conservative dimensions
Sport compacts are small, and 9-2X is no exception. With a wheelbase just less than 100 in. and a curb weight a little over 3,000 lbs., the new Saab is poised to deliver precise handling and exceptional fuel economy. Both models should yield high-20s on the highway, according to Saab. Cargo-carrying capacity is maximized by a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat; 61.6 cubic feet open up with the seat down.
Base Linear models, besides arriving with the 165-hp. mill, also include 16-in. alloy wheels with 205/55 series tires, a CD player, climate control, cruise control, keyless entry, a tilt wheel, power windows/locks/doors, power adjustable mirrors, and a rear-window wiper/washer system, all as standard equipment.
Aero versions get all of the above, plus larger front brakes, the functional hood scoop and fog lamps, lighter alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a 6-disc CD changer, metallic interior trim, "sport textile" upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter knob, and handbrake. Other options include full leather upholstery, a power sunroof, xenon headlights, and heated seats.
Saab's new model is a comfortable, compact 5-door that comes with both turbocharged-performance for the back roads, and fuel efficiency for the highways. For those enthusiastic customers who are still young, this blend of sport and economy might be the proper recipe.
2005 Saab 9-2X Reviewer's Notes
Base price: $22,990 (Linear); $26,950 (Aero); $695 destination (both models)
Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (165 hp @5,600 rpm, 166 lb.-ft. @4,000 rpm); 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (227 hp @6,000 rpm, 217 lb.-ft. @4,000 rpm)
Transmission: 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 99.4 in.
Length: 175.6 in.
Width: 68.1 in.
Height: 58.5 in.
Curb weight, lbs.: 3,100
Fuel economy: 19-20 city/26-28 highway mpg
Safety equipment: dual front airbags; front-seat side-impact airbags; front seat-belt pretensioners; active front seat head restraints; four-wheel disc brakes with ABS
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the new Saab 9-2X built, when does it go on sale, and who are its competitors?
On sale in June, the new model is built in Japan and competes with the Acura RSX, Volvo S40 and V40, Audi A3 ( 5 door), BMW 1-Class and Mercedes A-Class. (The latter two vehicles have yet to come to the U.S.).
Why has this vehicle been dubbed a "Saabaru", by some?
Is it really a Saab, or is it a Subaru? This new premium sport compact hatchback is a combined effort between Saab, a General Motor's division, and GM's alliance partner, Fuji Heavy Industries. The platform (underpinnings) is exactly the same as the Subaru WRX, and the basic materials from the A-pillar to the D-pillar (the expanse of the cab or cockpit, from the front windshield strut to the back glass) are borrowed from this zippy Subaru, as well. Saab has designed and engineered both the front and rear end with Saab's signature styling, as well as used some interior trim that speaks the Saab language to 9-2X buyers. Saab has also tuned the 9-2X to drive and sound like a Saab, tweaking its suspension and engine/exhaust note and by adding new specially-designed tires and wheels.However, the center console key-start is missing-- something that all Saab's have used until now--with the key start located on the column.
Why would Saab bring the 9-2X to market, when so much of it is a Subaru and who does Saab expect will buy it?
Saab is clearly in need of expanding its product line, and also bringing new buyers into its fold. It would take too long to develop its own competitive vehicle in this class, when the market in which the 9-2X competes-- the under $25,000 premium 5-door sport compact segment-- is expected to grow to the 125,000-150,000 unit range, by 2006. There is also cost efficiency for GM to use this already-built platform that has received high accolades, especially for its all-wheel-drive traction and handling. In the segment below the 9-3 in size and price, Saab expects 9-2X buyers will average 28 years of age (sedan buyers are average 38), single (versus married), more urban dwellers and renters than homeowners, and have a median income of $75,000.
How does it handle?
We test drove the new 9-2X on a road course in the San Diego region and on handling and autocross courses, designed for high-speed evaluation. It handles competently in all areas, but we must admit that there is a difference between the base and turbocharged varieties. We'd like to have a tad more power on tap than is available in the 2.5-liter. Having said that, both versions glow in their road-holding prowess, and take corners like their rubber below is actually smooth-surfaced Velcro. The 9-2X's suspension is set up to keep the car and passengers stable under hard cornering and braking. Brakes are well-modulated, as is throttle input, with good on-center feel to steering.
What are its best features?
Its standard all-wheel drive and no-charge, scheduled maintenance for four years or 50,000 miles. Any complaints? Change the location of the key start!
---Story by Sue Mead
---Photos courtesy of Saab
© 2004, Sue Mead, All Rights Reserved. |
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