Saab 9-7x News **Test drive from Europe (page 3)**
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Moderator Alumnus
Joined: Oct 2000
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From: Washington DC (NOVA)
Saab 9-7x News **Test drive from Europe (page 3)**
The Swedish automaker Saab, owned by General Motors, is about to fill a considerable gap in its model range. According statistics, about 25 percent of Saab buyers have left the brand in order to buy an SUV — which so far has never been available from Saab.
This will change from 2005 on when the company will offer for the first time in its history a mid-size truck, which will be called 9-7. Its exterior design and handling are going to be significantly different from the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and the other GM mid-size trucks from which it is based. This was already positively confirmed by a selected number of dealers who have been introduced to the new model and who were amazed by its styling.
No prototypes have so far been sighted, but the computer image is an artist’s impression made from insider information.
an adult perspective
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,784
Likes: 26
From: York, Pa
so they've added two doors to the concept 9x.
http://popularmechanics.com/automoti...tb_SAAB-LG.jpg
Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Saab will be building any coupes anymore - unless you want to put your top up on your 210hp turbo'd convertible and pretend. In fact, if you look at it closely, you'll see that this is a photoshop of the same picture I provided the url to (check the reflections directly above the passenger side headlight)
could somebody explain to me how I can post just the pick without having to rely upon the url? I've seen others do this but I can't figure out how to do it. tks
http://popularmechanics.com/automoti...tb_SAAB-LG.jpg
Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Saab will be building any coupes anymore - unless you want to put your top up on your 210hp turbo'd convertible and pretend. In fact, if you look at it closely, you'll see that this is a photoshop of the same picture I provided the url to (check the reflections directly above the passenger side headlight)
could somebody explain to me how I can post just the pick without having to rely upon the url? I've seen others do this but I can't figure out how to do it. tks
an adult perspective
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,784
Likes: 26
From: York, Pa
Re: 2005 Saab SUV
Originally posted by gavriil
Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Saab will be building any coupes anymore - unless you want to put the top up on your 210hp turbo'd convertible and pretend.
Originally posted by gavriil
but the computer image is an artist’s impression made from insider information.
but the computer image is an artist’s impression made from insider information.
(sorry for the repost, but just learned about IMG)
__
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 1,743
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From: Pa
Saab 9-7x SUV
Continuing the biggest product offensive in its history, Saab Automobile AB announces its latest new model and first sport utility vehicle, the 2005 Saab 9-7X. Featuring standard all-wheel-drive and two engine choices, the mid-size SUV will fill Saab’s need for an entry is this rapidly growing market segment.
The Saab 9-7X will make its world debut at the 2004 New York Auto Show in April, 2004, and will go on sale about one year later. Initially, the 9-7X will be produced specifically for the United States and Canadian markets.
“We are pleased to continue to expand our product line in the very important North American market,” commented Peter Augustsson, President and CEO of Saab Automobile AB. “With the Saab 9-X and 9-3X concept vehicles, followed by the award-winning Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and Convertible, the 9-3 Sport-Hatch concept and the dynamic new 9-2X, we are exceeding our commitment to introduce one new vehicle or concept each year for five years.”
“The Saab 9-7X is the perfect addition to our model mix,” said Debra Kelly-Ennis, President and COO of Saab Cars USA. “It allows us to join the growing mid-luxury SUV market, one of the fastest growing segments, with a dynamic, premium vehicle.”
The new 9-7X will be built at GM’s Moraine Assembly plant in Ohio, beginning in the first quarter of 2005.
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Thread Starter
Moderator Alumnus
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 8
From: Washington DC (NOVA)
Spy Shots: ’05 Saab SUV
Sharing in GM’s truck profits.
by Hans Lehmann/Hidden Image (2003-12-15)
Owned by General Motors, Saab has been one of only a couple of GM brands to be left out of the light-truck boom. According to statistics, about 25 percent of Saab buyers have left the brand in order to buy an SUV - which so far has never been available from Saab.
This will change in 2005, when the company will offer for the first time in its history a mid-size SUV, which will be called 9-7X. Based on the platform of the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the 9-7X's exterior design and handling is going to be significantly different from the TrailBlazer and other GM trucks. This was already positively confirmed by a selected number of dealers who have been introduced to the new model and who were amazed by its styling.
No prototypes have so far been sighted, but our computer image is an artist's impression made from insider information. The TrailBlazer's power comes from six- and eight-cylinder engines. Nothing is yet known whether Saab will use similar powerplants for the new model.
Hans G. Lehmann/ Hidden Image
Source: The Car Connection
Kabachitare!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 936
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From: Bay Area
Saab adds 9-7X sport utility to lineup
Saab adds sport utility to lineup
By David Phillips / The Detroit News
Swedish automaker Saab, moving to retain customers and attract new buyers, will enter the popular U.S. sport-utility vehicle market when the 9-7X goes on sale in the spring of 2005.
Saab’s U.S. sales have surged 27 percent in 2003. At the same time, though, the company said 28 percent of its owners bought an SUV this year.
“We must position ourselves to recapture many of those lost sales and continue to broaden our brand’s appeal to new buyers,” Debra Kelly-Ennis, president and chief operating officer of Saab Cars USA, said.
“We need a product like this to continue to grow our brand — and to fuel our product development program.”
While overall U.S. light vehicle demand has been flat this year, SUV sales have surged 8.5 percent, according to Autodata Corp.
Saab rivals Volvo, Acura and other near-luxury brands have benefitted from the introduction of mid-size SUVs in recent years.
The 9-7X will be a mid-size luxury SUV and be equipped with all-wheel-drive and two engine choices.
It marks Saab’s first product collaboration with the North American operations of parent General Motors Corp. It will be built at GM’s Moraine assembly plant in Ohio beginning in the first quarter of 2005.
Right now, GM builds the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Buick Rainier, GMC Envoy and Oldsmobile Bravada mid-size SUVs in Moraine.
Saab said the 9-7X will be produced specifically for the United States and Canadian markets — with sales projected to be 10,000 to 15,000 a year.
It will be formally introduced at the 2004 New York auto show in April.
You can reach David Phillips at (313) 222-2739 or dphillips@detnews.com.
pic at:
http://www.detnews.com/2003/autosins.../b01-12376.htm
By David Phillips / The Detroit News
Swedish automaker Saab, moving to retain customers and attract new buyers, will enter the popular U.S. sport-utility vehicle market when the 9-7X goes on sale in the spring of 2005.
Saab’s U.S. sales have surged 27 percent in 2003. At the same time, though, the company said 28 percent of its owners bought an SUV this year.
“We must position ourselves to recapture many of those lost sales and continue to broaden our brand’s appeal to new buyers,” Debra Kelly-Ennis, president and chief operating officer of Saab Cars USA, said.
“We need a product like this to continue to grow our brand — and to fuel our product development program.”
While overall U.S. light vehicle demand has been flat this year, SUV sales have surged 8.5 percent, according to Autodata Corp.
Saab rivals Volvo, Acura and other near-luxury brands have benefitted from the introduction of mid-size SUVs in recent years.
The 9-7X will be a mid-size luxury SUV and be equipped with all-wheel-drive and two engine choices.
It marks Saab’s first product collaboration with the North American operations of parent General Motors Corp. It will be built at GM’s Moraine assembly plant in Ohio beginning in the first quarter of 2005.
Right now, GM builds the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Buick Rainier, GMC Envoy and Oldsmobile Bravada mid-size SUVs in Moraine.
Saab said the 9-7X will be produced specifically for the United States and Canadian markets — with sales projected to be 10,000 to 15,000 a year.
It will be formally introduced at the 2004 New York auto show in April.
You can reach David Phillips at (313) 222-2739 or dphillips@detnews.com.
pic at:
http://www.detnews.com/2003/autosins.../b01-12376.htm
Instructor
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From: Toronto_CA
[Info/pics] Saab 9-7x
Significant extension of model lineup targeting one of the fastest growing segments
Styling, performance and driving characteristics create a sporty, fun-to-drive offering in the segment
Comprehensive standard equipment, including leather trimmed seats, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels and AWD
Two models – V-8 with an estimated 300 hp and an Inline 6 with 275 hp
Start of sales in U.S. and Canada in the first quarter of 2005 as a 2005 model year vehicle
As part of an aggressive product development program unprecedented in the company’s history, Saab will unveil the new 9-7X SUV at the New York International Auto Show (April 9 - April 18). Expanding its model offering to four vehicle lines, Saab – the fastest growing European premium car brand in the American market – now is targeting one of the fastest growing market segments. The mid-luxury SUV segment increased from approximately 50,000 units a year in 1997 to 290,000 units in 2003. By the end of 2004, sales are projected to exceed 400,000 units.
As part of its product offensive Saab launched the redesigned 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-3 Convertible models in the past 18 months. In December 2003, the company unveiled the Saab 9-2X, a unique and early offering in a car segment just emerging in the American market: the premium sports compact segment. The first Saab 9-2X models will go on sale in the U.S. and Canada on July 1, 2004.
The new 9-7X will bring unique Saab characteristics to this growing segment, including: sophisticated exterior and interior styling, premium design features and quality, a chassis tuned to deliver sporty and fun-to-drive performance and the ignition cylinder in the center console behind the gear lever. It will appeal to customers looking for a driver’s vehicle with the versatility of a SUV. The vehicle was developed from the award-winning General Motors GMT360 architecture. Regular production is scheduled to begin in January 2005, at GM’s Moraine, Ohio, assembly plant with vehicles available for sale in the first quarter of 2005.
“The Saab 9-7X emphasizes the ‘sport’ aspect of the sport utility vehicle nomenclature,” says Peter Augustsson, Saab’s president and CEO. “Like the soon to-be-launched Saab 9-2X models, it is very dynamic and is a vehicle that you want to drive.”
Market research conducted by Saab revealed that 39 percent of Saab customers in the U.S. currently have an SUV in the household. Furthermore, almost 30 percent of Saab customers who leave the Saab brand purchase a four-door SUV.
“The new Saab 9-7X will provide our dealers with a world-class SUV to satisfy existing customers and to attract new ones,” said Debra Kelly-Ennis, president of Saab Cars USA. “In 2003, with an increase of 26.7 percent, Saab was the fastest growing European premium car brand in the United States. Our unprecedented model offensive will help continue this strong momentum.”
The Saab 9-7X will be positioned in the $37,000 to $45,000 price bracket. Its high-performance version, incorporating a 5.3-liter V-8 delivering an estimated 300 horsepower, is destined to be an attractive offering among mid-luxury SUVs. Product content is characterized by comprehensive standard equipment, such as leather-trimmed seats, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, all-wheel-drive and a state-of-the-art sound system.
Design: Saab refinement for the exterior and interior at first glance“The exterior and interior designs of the Saab 9-7X are in line with the vehicle’s dynamic road behavior and convey the sporty refinement of a Saab rather than the ruggedness of a traditional SUV,” comments Saab’s Executive Director of Design Michael Mauer. “For example, the interior features such Saab icons as the air vents with their distinctive sliding-plate design, the famed cup holder like that of the Saab 9-5, and a center console ignition key.”
The 9-7X reflects Saab’s sporty and functional brand character throughout its exterior design. Key features, such as Saab’s signature three-port grille, rear quarter windows that visually ap-pear to wrap around the D-pillars and brand-distinctive wheels, telegraph the 9-7X’s heritage even from a distance. Overall, the Saab 9-7X presents a very smooth, aerodynamic, sporty appearance, with an excellent body-to-tire relationship derived from the vehicle’s low stance in combination with its standard 18-inch wheels.
The 9-7X’s profile is clean and uninterrupted, without any large bumper offsets or protruding shapes and forms. The taillamps are vertically stacked with clear acrylic lenses, reflector optics and precision-detailed bezels combining to create a three-dimensional, jewel-like effect.
The Saab 9-7X’s cockpit-inspired interior is highly refined and driver-oriented. The instrument panel’s center stack and controls are angled toward the driver. Like the exterior, it features Saab-traditional strong, brand-distinctive design elements and cues.
Performance: Sporty and focused on the driver
Like all Saabs, the 9-7X is designed to be a driver’s vehicle. To help achieve its comfortable, well-controlled ride and responsive handling, the Saab 9-7X uses a uniquely tuned double A-arm front suspension with front coil spring and a five-link, electronically controlled rear air suspension. The Saab 9-7X has been developed to deliver responsive European driving charac-teristics and a low ride height, with firm front and rear suspensions, a thick front stabilizer bar and stiff upper control arm bushings at the rear. All shock absorbers are valved to help provide firm body control for confident handling. The P255/55R18 high-performance all-season radials were specially developed by Dunlop to provide road-gripping capability. A quicker 18.5:1 steering gear ratio, together with stiff mounts, is designed to help improve steering responsive-ness and precision. The steering gear is tuned for on-center feel and smooth operation. The front section of the frame is stiffened with braces to help make steering more responsive and precise.
The Saab 9-7X features standard on-demand all-wheel-drive. Traction and handling perform-ance are further enhanced by a standard preloaded-clutch limited-slip differential at the rear. Brakes are large, 4-wheel vented discs, with front aluminum dual-piston calipers, and 4-wheel ABS. There is a choice of two all-aluminium engines, each coupled to a standard elec-tronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. The 4.2-liter Inline 6 delivers 275 hp (205 kW) and 275 lb.-ft. (372 Nm) of torque. The 5.3-liter V-8 is rated at an estimated 300 hp (224 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 Nm) of torque.
“The Saab 9-7X is an excellent example of Saab’s expertise applied to achieve sporty, driver focused performance,” says Kjell-Åke Eriksson, Saab executive director for future products. “Although it offers excellent versatility, it is still a delight to drive with minimal body roll and a firm but subtle, quiet ride.”
On top of its well-mannered vehicle dynamics, the Saab 9-7X features a comprehensive stan-dard safety package, including:
Dual-stage front air bags
Passenger sensing system
Rollover sensing system
Head curtain side air bags
Front seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters
Front seat belt buckle-up reminder.
Versatility: Lots of room for people and their luggage
Saab 9-7X customers are expected to pursue an outgoing and active lifestyle. With a wheelbase of 113 inches (2,870 mm) and an overall length of 193.4 inches (4,912 mm), the Saab 9-7X offers ample room for friends and family. It holds up to 41 cubic feet (1,161 liters) of cargo with the rear seatback up, and 80.1 cubic feet (2,268 liters) with the seatback folded down. A 60/40-split rear seat is standard in all 9-7X models, as is a trailer hitch receiver and hitch receiver cover. Maximum towing capacity when equipped with the V-8 engine is an estimated 6,500 pounds (2,948 kilograms).
Augustsson puts the launch of the Saab 9-7X in broader perspective: “The Saab 9-7X is a crucial addition to our lineup, providing customers with Saab’s driver-focused interpretation of an SUV and filling an important need in our growth strategy.”
Styling, performance and driving characteristics create a sporty, fun-to-drive offering in the segment
Comprehensive standard equipment, including leather trimmed seats, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels and AWD
Two models – V-8 with an estimated 300 hp and an Inline 6 with 275 hp
Start of sales in U.S. and Canada in the first quarter of 2005 as a 2005 model year vehicle
As part of an aggressive product development program unprecedented in the company’s history, Saab will unveil the new 9-7X SUV at the New York International Auto Show (April 9 - April 18). Expanding its model offering to four vehicle lines, Saab – the fastest growing European premium car brand in the American market – now is targeting one of the fastest growing market segments. The mid-luxury SUV segment increased from approximately 50,000 units a year in 1997 to 290,000 units in 2003. By the end of 2004, sales are projected to exceed 400,000 units.
As part of its product offensive Saab launched the redesigned 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-3 Convertible models in the past 18 months. In December 2003, the company unveiled the Saab 9-2X, a unique and early offering in a car segment just emerging in the American market: the premium sports compact segment. The first Saab 9-2X models will go on sale in the U.S. and Canada on July 1, 2004.
The new 9-7X will bring unique Saab characteristics to this growing segment, including: sophisticated exterior and interior styling, premium design features and quality, a chassis tuned to deliver sporty and fun-to-drive performance and the ignition cylinder in the center console behind the gear lever. It will appeal to customers looking for a driver’s vehicle with the versatility of a SUV. The vehicle was developed from the award-winning General Motors GMT360 architecture. Regular production is scheduled to begin in January 2005, at GM’s Moraine, Ohio, assembly plant with vehicles available for sale in the first quarter of 2005.
“The Saab 9-7X emphasizes the ‘sport’ aspect of the sport utility vehicle nomenclature,” says Peter Augustsson, Saab’s president and CEO. “Like the soon to-be-launched Saab 9-2X models, it is very dynamic and is a vehicle that you want to drive.”
Market research conducted by Saab revealed that 39 percent of Saab customers in the U.S. currently have an SUV in the household. Furthermore, almost 30 percent of Saab customers who leave the Saab brand purchase a four-door SUV.
“The new Saab 9-7X will provide our dealers with a world-class SUV to satisfy existing customers and to attract new ones,” said Debra Kelly-Ennis, president of Saab Cars USA. “In 2003, with an increase of 26.7 percent, Saab was the fastest growing European premium car brand in the United States. Our unprecedented model offensive will help continue this strong momentum.”
The Saab 9-7X will be positioned in the $37,000 to $45,000 price bracket. Its high-performance version, incorporating a 5.3-liter V-8 delivering an estimated 300 horsepower, is destined to be an attractive offering among mid-luxury SUVs. Product content is characterized by comprehensive standard equipment, such as leather-trimmed seats, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, all-wheel-drive and a state-of-the-art sound system.
Design: Saab refinement for the exterior and interior at first glance“The exterior and interior designs of the Saab 9-7X are in line with the vehicle’s dynamic road behavior and convey the sporty refinement of a Saab rather than the ruggedness of a traditional SUV,” comments Saab’s Executive Director of Design Michael Mauer. “For example, the interior features such Saab icons as the air vents with their distinctive sliding-plate design, the famed cup holder like that of the Saab 9-5, and a center console ignition key.”
The 9-7X reflects Saab’s sporty and functional brand character throughout its exterior design. Key features, such as Saab’s signature three-port grille, rear quarter windows that visually ap-pear to wrap around the D-pillars and brand-distinctive wheels, telegraph the 9-7X’s heritage even from a distance. Overall, the Saab 9-7X presents a very smooth, aerodynamic, sporty appearance, with an excellent body-to-tire relationship derived from the vehicle’s low stance in combination with its standard 18-inch wheels.
The 9-7X’s profile is clean and uninterrupted, without any large bumper offsets or protruding shapes and forms. The taillamps are vertically stacked with clear acrylic lenses, reflector optics and precision-detailed bezels combining to create a three-dimensional, jewel-like effect.
The Saab 9-7X’s cockpit-inspired interior is highly refined and driver-oriented. The instrument panel’s center stack and controls are angled toward the driver. Like the exterior, it features Saab-traditional strong, brand-distinctive design elements and cues.
Performance: Sporty and focused on the driver
Like all Saabs, the 9-7X is designed to be a driver’s vehicle. To help achieve its comfortable, well-controlled ride and responsive handling, the Saab 9-7X uses a uniquely tuned double A-arm front suspension with front coil spring and a five-link, electronically controlled rear air suspension. The Saab 9-7X has been developed to deliver responsive European driving charac-teristics and a low ride height, with firm front and rear suspensions, a thick front stabilizer bar and stiff upper control arm bushings at the rear. All shock absorbers are valved to help provide firm body control for confident handling. The P255/55R18 high-performance all-season radials were specially developed by Dunlop to provide road-gripping capability. A quicker 18.5:1 steering gear ratio, together with stiff mounts, is designed to help improve steering responsive-ness and precision. The steering gear is tuned for on-center feel and smooth operation. The front section of the frame is stiffened with braces to help make steering more responsive and precise.
The Saab 9-7X features standard on-demand all-wheel-drive. Traction and handling perform-ance are further enhanced by a standard preloaded-clutch limited-slip differential at the rear. Brakes are large, 4-wheel vented discs, with front aluminum dual-piston calipers, and 4-wheel ABS. There is a choice of two all-aluminium engines, each coupled to a standard elec-tronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. The 4.2-liter Inline 6 delivers 275 hp (205 kW) and 275 lb.-ft. (372 Nm) of torque. The 5.3-liter V-8 is rated at an estimated 300 hp (224 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 Nm) of torque.
“The Saab 9-7X is an excellent example of Saab’s expertise applied to achieve sporty, driver focused performance,” says Kjell-Åke Eriksson, Saab executive director for future products. “Although it offers excellent versatility, it is still a delight to drive with minimal body roll and a firm but subtle, quiet ride.”
On top of its well-mannered vehicle dynamics, the Saab 9-7X features a comprehensive stan-dard safety package, including:
Dual-stage front air bags
Passenger sensing system
Rollover sensing system
Head curtain side air bags
Front seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters
Front seat belt buckle-up reminder.
Versatility: Lots of room for people and their luggage
Saab 9-7X customers are expected to pursue an outgoing and active lifestyle. With a wheelbase of 113 inches (2,870 mm) and an overall length of 193.4 inches (4,912 mm), the Saab 9-7X offers ample room for friends and family. It holds up to 41 cubic feet (1,161 liters) of cargo with the rear seatback up, and 80.1 cubic feet (2,268 liters) with the seatback folded down. A 60/40-split rear seat is standard in all 9-7X models, as is a trailer hitch receiver and hitch receiver cover. Maximum towing capacity when equipped with the V-8 engine is an estimated 6,500 pounds (2,948 kilograms).
Augustsson puts the launch of the Saab 9-7X in broader perspective: “The Saab 9-7X is a crucial addition to our lineup, providing customers with Saab’s driver-focused interpretation of an SUV and filling an important need in our growth strategy.”
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From: Everywhere
Funny how the SAAB front end on the WRX wagon and this GM POS makes it look so much better. Yet the SAAB front end on SAABs is not too great, except the 93 convert.
THis is a crying shame for SAAB enthusiasts...Pathetic
THis is a crying shame for SAAB enthusiasts...Pathetic
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 4,411
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From: New Orleans
Originally posted by gavriil
Looks great from all angles. GM is all out...
Looks great from all angles. GM is all out...
__
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 1,743
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From: Pa
the ignition is in a normal saab place! why couldn't they do that for the 9-2x?
http://new9-7x.saabusa.com/images/gallery2.html
http://new9-7x.saabusa.com/images/gallery4.html
http://new9-7x.saabusa.com/images/gallery2.html
http://new9-7x.saabusa.com/images/gallery4.html