 Video highlights of this vehicle
What Is It?
2005 Saab 9-2X
What's Special About It?
Built in collaboration with Subaru, this new entry-level Saab sports
wagon attempts to blend the high-performance drivetrain of the Impreza with
the style and refinement of a Saab. Up front, the 9-2X sports Saab's trademark
grill design that it shares with the rest of the Saab family. From there on
back its similarities to the Impreza are obvious, but revised taillights and a
unique wheel design give it a slightly more polished look.
Base models get a 165 horsepower flat four, while the top-of-the-line
9-2X Aero uses the same turbocharged 227 horsepower 2.0-liter found in the
WRX. Both trims get standard all-wheel drive, anti-lock brakes and aluminum
suspension parts to reduce weight. Ten-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels come
standard, while 17-inch wheels available as an option on the Aero.
Inside the 9-2X, Saab's Scandinavian design philosophy is evident in
both 9-2X models. The gauges wear simple, easy-to-read markings, the climate
control system has large dials for easy adjustment and muted shades of gray,
white and black make up the color scheme. Aero models are upgraded with a
leather-wrapped steering wheel, six-disc CD changer and high-contrast cloth
trim that give it an upscale look without resorting to the typical leather and
wood treatment.
The sport seats feature prominent side bolstering to hold you in during
quick corners while at the same time offering enough comfort for long trips.
Also included are standard side head-thorax airbags to protect both the driver
and front passenger in the event of a side-impact collision.
Although hailed as a performance car, the wagon bodystyle of the 9-2X
also offers the versatility and convenience of a hatchback. Flip the rear
seats down and you have access to nearly 60 cubic feet of cargo space. Try to
find another fun-to-drive car with that kind of practicality. Look for the
9-2X to hit dealers this summer starting at around $25,000.
What's Edmunds' Take?
We can guarantee that we're going to like this car. Why? Because we love
the WRX, and although Saab would like most buyers to think that the 9-2X is a
truly unique sport wagon, the fact is that it's not much more than a warmed
over Euro version of the Impreza. We can think of worse cars to copy, but
whether or not it will translate to increased popularity for the Saab brand
name will be its real test. — Ed Hellwig
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