Saab 9-3X spied with no camouflage

Trollhattansaab.net's inside informant "Djup Strupe" (Swedish for "Deep Throat") has sent a round of undisguised shots of the upcoming 9-3X to the web. The lifted 9-3 is aimed at SUV defectors and works in the same vein as the Audi allroad and Volvo XC70. Judging by the prototype caught by Djup Strupe, the car isn't far from production.

The 30mm suspension lift and SUV-like body cladding are obvious in the photos, though the car maintains a distinct family look. Roof rails and faux skidplates are also in evidence. A set of unique split-spoke wheels is also visible. With Saab's XWD all-wheel drive system underneath, this car should prove to be a viable competitor to Volvo's successful XC70.
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veyron1001 - 11/26/2008 7:11:50 PM

+3 Boost

At least it does not look like one literally. [fail]Ford Taurus[/fail]

Hyundai - 11/26/2008 8:03:38 PM

+1 Boost

Ahhhhh... Saab.

I feel sorry for Saab. They are an irrelevant company these days.

Too bad - they used to make interesting cars. Now all they get are leftovers since they tied the knot with GM.

S4cabriofoxone - 11/27/2008 1:13:24 AM

+3 Boost

What the hell is this? Why are they trying to be Volvo?

ktu01 - 11/27/2008 1:35:36 AM

+1 Boost

I'd like to see more collaboration between Saab and Opel from Europe. Perhaps there could be a series of interesting cars that could come out with their expertise combined. Opel is moving upmarket slightly, and improving their designs a lot. Saab still has a lot of potential in building premium sports sedans. Why not? :)

tango - 11/27/2008 10:47:04 PM

+1 Boost

The collaboration with Opel is what started their demise in the first place. All their current models are based on GM-Europe (read that as Opel and Vauxhall) platforms. Platforms are one thing, but there is just not enough SAABness in SAABs anymore. I think they need to look back at their designs from the 70s and 80s for inspiration. And their interiors. They claim that the SAAB interior is inspired by airplanes. Really? Which one? The Wright Flyer? Get real. I am critical because I have always loved SAABs. I'm pissed that they have lost their identity.