2009 Detroit Auto Show: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition

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DETROIT — While it scours the globe for a potential buyer, General Motors hopes to beef up the product portfolio at Saab, its stumbling Swedish subsidiary, with fully loaded "Griffin Editions" of the 9-5 sedan and wagon. They will debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

Lavishly furnished with an "unprecedented" level of standard equipment, according to Saab, the 9-5 Griffin Editions will reach U.S. dealers in January, priced from $42,775 for the sedan and $44,045 for the SportCombi.

All models are powered by a 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, with a no-cost choice of five-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Among the Griffin Edition features are unique five-spoke alloy wheels shod with 17-inch tires, high-gloss interior trim, rear parking assist, heated outside mirrors, two-tone leather seats and a palette of six metallic colors. Besides the transmission and paint choices, the only options are ventilated seats and a navigation system.

Saab sales plunged 58 percent in November and were down 33 percent through the first 11 months.

Inside Line says: The increasingly tenuous link to Saab aircraft is still being shamelessly exploited by GM. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent