Used 2009 Saab 9-7X
Pros & Cons
- High feature content, powerful engine choices, all-wheel-drive traction, comfortable cockpit-inspired cabin.
- Thinly disguised and aging GM design, outclassed four-speed automatic transmission, mediocre handling and braking.
Other years
Edmunds' Expert Review
Now on life support in its final year, the 2009 Saab 9-7X manages a few final breaths as a reasonably capable GM-based luxury SUV, but there are plenty of other choices that come out miles ahead in terms of bang for the buck.
Vehicle overview
Enthusiasts with a penchant for Swedish-flavored transportation -- and, perhaps with a Saab passenger car already parked outside -- may think they've found the utility vehicle of their dreams when they lay eyes on the 2009 Saab 9-7X. Front fascias can be deceiving, however. Behind that distinctively Swedish face, the 9-7X is basically a gussied-up Chevrolet TrailBlazer, a back-of-the-pack midsize SUV that received its last redesign seven years ago.
Like its corporate cousins, the 2009 Saab 9-7X continues to ride on a truck-based body-on-frame chassis. However, it's differentiated through recalibrated suspension tuning and some unique exterior and interior design elements -- the signature three-port grille and cleanly styled headlamps give the 9-7X a simple yet sophisticated look up front. From most other angles, though, the 9-7X looks uncomfortably like its GM relatives. More family resemblance becomes evident when you turn the key and large-displacement, American-style power rumbles to life. There are three flavors to choose from: a base 4.2-liter inline-6, a 5.3-liter V8 or a fire-breathing 390-horsepower 6.0-liter V8.
The 9-7X is generally competent, but it doesn't possess enough unique Saab DNA to compensate for its obvious GM underpinnings and lofty price tag. Competing models like the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 offer higher levels of safety, luxury and refinement. Even if you consider yourself a Saabophile, you should think twice before adding this SUV to your stable.
Saab 9-7X models
The 2009 Saab 9-7X is a premium midsize sport-utility vehicle that seats five and is offered in three states of tune: base 4.2i, midlevel 5.3i and high-flying Aero. Standard equipment on the 4.2i includes 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, faux wood trim, eight-way power-adjustable heated front seats with driver memory, a sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, OnStar, satellite radio and an MP3-compatible Bose audio system with an in-dash six-CD changer.
The 5.3i model ups the ante with V8 power, xenon headlights with washers, specific aluminum wheels and power-adjustable pedals. The range-topping Aero is further differentiated by a bigger V8, a sport-tuned suspension with larger stabilizer bars, heavy-duty brakes, 20-inch wheels with performance tires, exclusive charcoal metallic paint and "Aero"-embroidered seats and floor mats. Optional 9-7X equipment includes a navigation system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and polished aluminum wheels. Chrome-trimmed side assist steps are also offered as a dealer-installed option.
2009 Highlights
The 2009 Saab 9-7X receives Bluetooth connectivity and an Altitude Edition option on 4.2i and 5.3i models that includes DVD-based navigation, polished 18-inch alloy wheels and special paint.
Performance & mpg
All Saab 9-7Xs are powered by GM-built engines that transmit their power through four-speed automatic transmissions and a standard all-wheel-drive system. The 4.2i model features a 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder putting out 285 hp and 276 pound-feet of torque. The 5.3i is equipped with a 5.3-liter V8 that generates 300 horses and 321 lb-ft of torque and features GM's Active Fuel Management system, which deactivates four cylinders when not needed during cruising conditions.
The performance-oriented Aero is equipped with a 6.0-liter V8 cranking out 390 hp and 400 lb-ft of tire-twisting torque -- if you want to reach 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, this is the one for you. Properly equipped, the 9-7X can tow up to 6,600 pounds. EPA-estimated fuel economy is about what you'd expect from a 2.5-ton, large-displacement SUV: 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined from both the 4.2-liter six-cylinder and the 5.3-liter V8. Those figures go down to a Hummer-like 12 mpg city/16 mpg highway and 13 mpg combined for the Aero's 6.0-liter V8.
Safety
The 2009 Saab 9-7X comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and OnStar with crash notification. In the government's frontal crash test, though, the 9-7X received an unimpressive three stars out of five for driver protection and four stars for front-passenger protection. Saab's SUV did perform well in government side-impact testing, earning a perfect five stars out of five for both front and rear occupants. However, in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the 9-7X received an "Acceptable" rating for frontal-offset collisions and only a "Marginal" ranking for side-impact crashes.
Driving
In order to achieve more responsive handling and coax a bit more Euro-style road feel from this truck-based chassis, Saab engineers stiffened the 9-7X's frame and recalibrated its antiquated A-arm front suspension and solid rear axle design. The result is a qualified success, as the 2009 Saab 9-7X offers a more compliant and better-controlled ride plus sharper handling than any of its GM relatives. But that's not saying a whole lot, as less costly traditional SUVs like the Ford Explorer and Toyota 4Runner still top the 9-7X in driving dynamics. Brake feel is also a weak point, as the pedal lacks the progressive and confident modulation associated with a premium vehicle. And while we have no problem at all with the abundant power of the three available engines, they lack overall refinement when compared with the power delivery found in some of the 9-7X's premium rivals from overseas.
Interior
Drivers who are familiar with other Saabs but don't look too closely should feel right at home behind the wheel of the 2009 9-7X. The console-mounted ignition and the cockpit-inspired design are instantly recognizable Saab brand cues, and the faux wood dash accents and contrasting upholstery trim impart an inviting Scandinavian design feel. However, sharp-eyed enthusiasts will quickly uncover the vehicle's more pedestrian GM foundation. When compared with more sophisticated but similarly priced Japanese and European rivals, the 9-7X's interior design and materials quality simply don't measure up. The 9-7X is roomy, though, with cargo capacity measuring nearly 40 cubic feet behind the rear seats and just over 80 cubic feet total with the seats down -- slightly above average for this segment.
Scorecard
| Overall | undefined / 5 |
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2009 Saab 9-7X.
Trending topics in reviews
- value
- handling & steering
- appearance
- engine
- infotainment system
- wheels & tires
- driving experience
- maintenance & parts
- fuel efficiency
- ride quality
- dashboard
- warranty
- transmission
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.875/5 stars, Great Luxury SUV
dukeu,
4.2i 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
This SUV is fun to drive, and handles superbly in the snow. The price for a used one is incredibly low. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone that wants luxury, and all the equipment. Everyone compliments the exterior design and appearance. And those who ride in it want to know where to buy one.
4.625/5 stars, Can't beat the value!
NewSaabist,
4.2i 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
I just recently purchased a new 9-7x. I have to say that I would not have looked at this vehicle if I had to pay the sticker price of $43,000, but with $17,000 in rebates and other incentives this vehicle is a great value. I already have a Trailblazer so I am familiar with the platform. As you might expect the Saab is much nicer on the inside and has much better handling. The only knock is the fuel economy but I knew this from the Trailblazer. If you can get the rebates and incentives and you're in the SUV market, I think this SUV is worth a look.
4.625/5 stars, Good SUV value
just right,
4.2i 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
Due to the incentives and rebates I was able to purchase a 9-7X brand new for 25,000. For the price this is an outstanding value for this vehicle considering it comes with a 50,000 mile warranty. Comfortable, fun to drive and the interior is better than the other SUV's I tested costing much more. The six cylinder has ample power and it handles the road better than the 4-Runner I owned. I know people like to point out that this is not a "true" SAAB. However, this is not a a typical GM offering either. For the price I did not find a better mid-sized SUV.
4.625/5 stars, 9 7x - 5.3
Thomas Coffeepa,
5.3i 4dr SUV AWD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
Great SUV. Performance and handling are like no other SUV I have driven. We test drove both the 6 and 8 cylinder, and opted for the 8. Fuel economy was not much different between 6 or 8 so we went for the power. Wise choice. The V-8 power together with all wheel drive is fantastic.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $42,615
- MPG & Fuel
- 14 City / 20 Hwy / 16 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.0 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic
- Engine
- Inline 6 cylinder
- Horsepower: 285 hp @ 6000 rpm
- Torque: 276 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 193.2 in. / Height: 68.5 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 75.4 in.
- Curb Weight: 4720 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 39.8 cu.ft.
Safety
FAQ
Is the Saab 9-7X a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2009 9-7X both on the road and at the track. You probably care about Saab 9-7X fuel economy, so it's important to know that the 9-7X gets an EPA-estimated 13 mpg to 16 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the 9-7X has 39.8 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Saab 9-7X. Learn more
Is the Saab 9-7X reliable?
To determine whether the Saab 9-7X is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the 9-7X. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the 9-7X's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2009 Saab 9-7X a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2009 Saab 9-7X is a good car. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2009 9-7X is a good car for you. Check back soon for the official Edmunds Rating from our expert testing team Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2009 Saab 9-7X?
The least-expensive 2009 Saab 9-7X is the 2009 Saab 9-7X 4.2i 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $42,615.
Other versions include:
- 4.2i 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A) which starts at $42,615
- 5.3i 4dr SUV AWD (5.3L 8cyl 4A) which starts at $45,345
- Aero 4dr SUV AWD (6.0L 8cyl 4A) which starts at $49,105
What are the different models of Saab 9-7X?
If you're interested in the Saab 9-7X, the next question is, which 9-7X model is right for you? 9-7X variants include 4.2i 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A), 5.3i 4dr SUV AWD (5.3L 8cyl 4A), and Aero 4dr SUV AWD (6.0L 8cyl 4A). For a full list of 9-7X models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more