How multifaceted is the noun “griffin”? For some, it refers to a mythical creature that’s part lion, part eagle. For Saab’s aircraft division, it describes the new JAS 39 Griffin fighter jet. And for car buyers, Griffin now means a special edition of the ancient Saab 9-5 to be launched at the 2009 Detroit auto show.
Starting in January, the Griffin package will be available on 9-5 sedans and SportCombi wagons. Though the moniker was inspired by Saab’s aviation heritage, there’s nothing jetlike about this car: propulsion comes from the same 260-hp, 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder as other 9-5s.
In lieu of actual performance upgrades, the 9-5 Griffin sports special 17-inch wheels and a plenary of “Griffin” badges. Sedans receive a trunklid spoiler, while SportCombis score a roof spoiler and matte chrome roof rails. Color choices are up to six, including two new shades of gray for 2009.
Other add-ons include standard backup sensors and heated-and-folding side mirrors. Leather sport seats, like those in Saab Aero models, come in two-tone parchment and black. Other interior changes are shiny interior trim and accent stitching for the steering wheel, shifter, parking brake lever, and seats.
When the Griffins go on sale in January—assuming GM hasn’t axed Saab or gone bankrupt by then—the sedan will sell for $42,775 and the SportCombi will command $44,045.
Starting in January, the Griffin package will be available on 9-5 sedans and SportCombi wagons. Though the moniker was inspired by Saab’s aviation heritage, there’s nothing jetlike about this car: propulsion comes from the same 260-hp, 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder as other 9-5s.
In lieu of actual performance upgrades, the 9-5 Griffin sports special 17-inch wheels and a plenary of “Griffin” badges. Sedans receive a trunklid spoiler, while SportCombis score a roof spoiler and matte chrome roof rails. Color choices are up to six, including two new shades of gray for 2009.
Other add-ons include standard backup sensors and heated-and-folding side mirrors. Leather sport seats, like those in Saab Aero models, come in two-tone parchment and black. Other interior changes are shiny interior trim and accent stitching for the steering wheel, shifter, parking brake lever, and seats.
When the Griffins go on sale in January—assuming GM hasn’t axed Saab or gone bankrupt by then—the sedan will sell for $42,775 and the SportCombi will command $44,045.
