LA show: Saab 9-2X debuts

SAAB has announced its Subaru Impreza-based 9-2X turbo hatch will make its public debut at the Los Angeles motor show in December.

Saab’s first all-wheel drive production vehicle, to be positioned below the new 9-3 sedan, will be produced in Fuji Heavy Industries’ facilities in Japan from March, 2004.

The 9-2X will be available in two five-door guises, with the entry level car to be powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre boxer and the flagship Aero model to feature a 168kW 2.0-litre turbo.

The Saab 9-2X is scheduled to go on sale in the US and Canada, with other markets still under consideration.

The 9-2X’s world debut at the LA was confirmed at the Tokyo motor show by Peter Augustsson, President and CEO of Saab Automobile AB, which is 100 per cent owned by GM, while Subaru is 20 per cent owned.

"We see a rapidly emerging segment in the United States for a premium, small car below the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan and we intend to be among the first in the segment," said Mr Augustsson. "The 9-2X will help introduce Saab to younger customer group." "The Saab 9-2X is the result of a collaboration between two like-minded companies. We both have a special aircraft heritage and a successful history in rallying, and our cars are known for being dynamic, safe and fun-to-drive. It makes a lot of sense to combine our strengths in creating a Saab that can be brought to market quickly," he said.

Bob Lutz, GM’s vice chairman for product development said: "The Saab and Subaru brands have a special flair. It is a natural fit for them to combine their talents and expertise in bringing the first all-wheel-drive performance car into the Saab family — a car with great dynamic qualities and exhilarating performance."