Good news, Saab fans. Another new production model is headed our way in a few months' time. According to the official Twitter feed for the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the
2011 Saab 9-4x crossover will finally make its production debut at the L.A. show in November.
Although the concept's funky ski racks and flex-fuel capability may not cross into production, we're expecting the production
2011 9-4x to otherwise mirror the show car, which launched at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. At the time, we called the concept a thinly veiled version of the production vehicle, and
based upon the numerous spy photos and prototypes we've seen since, we'll stick with that assessment.
In concept form, the 9-4x was powered by General Motors' direct-injection turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4, which produced nearly 300 horsepower when running on E85 ethanol blends. We wouldn't be surprised to see such an engine make its way into the final product to make it more Saab-ish, but given the 9-4x shares its Theta Premium underpinnings with the
Cadillac SRX, it may also be offered with a 3.0-liter direct-injection V-6 or a turbocharged 2.8-liter V-6. Regardless, expect engine offerings to be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and Saab's Haldex-sourced XWD all-wheel-drive system.
Although production of the 9-3 and 9-5 still occurs within Saab's factory gates in Trollhattan, Sweden, the 9-4x will continue to be supplied by GM, and will likely be built alongside the SRX in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico. Expect finalized details of this new crossover to emerge later in November, and deliveries to commence in early 2011.
Thanks to:
Motor Trend
