Saab 9-2X - Definition and Overview

This article is about the Saab 9-2X from the 21st century. There is also the Saab 92, from the 1950s.

The Saab 9-2X is a Saab-branded automobile assembled in Japan by Subaru and based on the Subaru Impreza WRX, but with a modified body and interior. The 9-2X earned the nickname "Saabaru" before it was released.

As of 2004, Saab planned to offer the 9-2X to a limited public in July 2004, for the 2005 model year, as both a sedan and a wagon in locales where Saab was currently unrecognized by the majority of the populace. Europe is an example of an excluded location. Initial sales have been slow with just 410 sold in the first two months.

Characteristics

The 9-2X is priced at around US$25,000. The DOHC turbocharged 2.0 L engine can produce 227 hp at 6000 RPM, as well as 217 ft.lbf of torque at 4000 RPM.

The powertrain consists of the following:

• Either a 2.5 L, flat, four-cylinder engine shared with the Subaru Impreza in the 'Linear' model, or a 2.0 L, turbocharged, flat, four-cylinder engine shared with the Subaru Impreza WRX in the 'Aero' model
• A five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission
• An all-wheel drive drivetrain

The interior is reworked and has received extra acoustic insulation. The suspension arms are in aluminum and the dampers recalibrated. The steering has been made more responsive and exact by using a quicker steering ratio, more rigidly mounted steering hardware and stiffer chassis bushings.

Background

Although pushed by General Motors, which is the owner of Saab and a major minority shareholder in Subaru, the 9-2X is not particularly popular with brand enthusiasts, nor, reportedly, management at the companies concerned. From the perspective of Saab enthusiasts, the idea has been criticized for the fact that the changes are merely cosmetic; thus, while it may look like a Saab, it might not drive like a Saab, nor have the same high standard of safety as a Saab (although the Impreza is among the safest cars in its class). Subaru, meanwhile, is not happy about its image-building "hero car" being used to prop up another brand - although officially both companies support the idea, and stress their common background in aviation and rally. Many Subaru owners, especially boy racers, liked the idea since they hoped to be able to use Saab parts to style their Subarus - notably the Subaru interior, which is often described as outdated and truck-like. Initial reviews have praised the car for its handling and higher-quality interior.

See also

Saab 92

References

• Car Design News, Inc. (n.d.). Saab 9-2X. In Los Angeles Auto Show 2004 - Highlights. Retrieved January 18, 2004 from http://www.cardesignnews.com/autoshows/2004/losangeles/highlights/index.html

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