Four-wheelin' Swede - 2005 Saab 9-2X five-door
Billed by the automaker as an early entry in the emerging premium sports compact segment, the new Saab 9-2X benefits from its relationship with parent General Motors and all-wheel drive specialist Subaru. Starting with the Subaru Impreza wagon as the basis for the new premium offering, Saab will offer consumers advanced full-time all-wheel-drive and a first for Saab, two boxer engine configurations.
Featuring Saab exterior styling cues, the 9-2X expresses a strong and dynamic character designed to attract new, young and enthusiastic customers to the brand.
Available in Linear and Aero trim levels, the 9-2X Linear is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder engine while the Aero model is equipped with a high performance 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder prime mover. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard; a four-speed automatic is optional. Traction and handling performance of the Aero are enhanced by a standard viscous limited-slip differential at the rear.
The vehicle retains Saab's recognizably curvaceous front end styling, which harmoniously integrates the familiar three-hole grille and the low-horizontally emphasized headlamps that wrap around into the sides of the vehicle. Below the bumper area, a pronounced air intake hints at the performance potential of the new sports compact, and on the top-of-the-line 9-2X Aero model, the front hood is accentuated with an aggressive, integrated air intake that feeds the intercooler of the turbocharged engine.
On the road, the 9-2X, with its low-effort clutch, smooth engagement and seamless power, is a joy to drive for miles -- be it mountain road or Midwestern interstate. Under the svelte Swedish shape, the 9-2X wagon features the following suspension hardware: MacPherson struts with lower L arms, liquid-filled L-arm rear bushings, coil springs and a stabilizer bar up front; MacPherson struts with coil springs, trailing arms, twin parallel links and stabilizer bar for the rear.
Inside, a spacious cabin greets driver and passengers. Outward visibility is good. Seating is supportive and comfortable throughout the compartment. Easy to read analog gauges feature a black base plate, white indicators and yellow illuminated needle pointers for easy viewing. Controls fall easily to the hand.
A unique manual driver's seat adjustment mechanism makes the 9-2X comfortable for a wide variety of drivers. Rear seat occupants are not neglected. Two adults can ride comfortably. The 60/40 split rear seat folds flat with the cargo floor. A one-hand operation converts the rear seats into usable cargo space quickly.
Quick vehicle stats
Wheelbase: 99.4; overall length: 175.6; width: 66.7; height: 57.7 -- measurements in inches.
Engine: 2.5L four-cylinder -- 165 hp at 5,600 rpm and 166 lbs-ft of torque; 2.5L four-cylinder turbo -- 227 hp at 5,500 rpm, and 217 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Transmission: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic.
EPA fuel economy: 2.0L -- 22 city/29 hwy., (manual); 23 city/29 hwy., (automatic); 2.5L turbo -- 20 city/26 hwy., (manual); 19 city/25 hwy., (automatic).
Cargo capacity: 61.6 cu. ft.
Safety features
Limited-slip rear differential, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, dual front airbags, front seat side-impact airbags, side-impact door beams, remote keyless entry and alarm system. Aero adds front fog lights.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,00 mile, bumper-to-bumper.
Scheduled maintenance: 2-year/24,000 miles, no charge.
Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited.
Roadside assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile, 24-hour.
Pricing
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Saab 9-2X wagon starts from $22,990 for the Linear and $26,950 for the Aero model. Destination charges add $695.
As tested
2005 Saab 9-2X Linear five-door wagon
Exterior color: Desert Silver metallic
Interior color: Black/Beige
Tire make/model: Bridgestone Potenza RE92
Tire size: P205/55R16
Base price $22,990
Destination charge $ 695
Total as tested $23,685
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