2005 Saab 9-2X

The base $23K Linear model's 2.5-liter flat four ("boxer") engine delivers 165 hp and 166 lb.-ft. of torque through its 5-speed manual transaxle and full-time AWD. Additional standards include keyless entry and security, air conditioning, power windows, locks and mirrors, cruise control, AM/FM/CD audio, active front head restraints, cargo area lighting and cover, rear wiper and roof spoiler, 16-inch alloy wheels and a 2-year/24,000 mile no-charge scheduled maintenance package. A 4-speed automatic version is also available. The up-level Aero model (derived from Subaru's legendary rally-winning WRX) boasts a 227-hp turbocharged, intercooled 2.0-liter four, plus larger front brakes, fog lamps, automatic climate control, leather-covered steering wheel and shifter, aluminum sport pedals, aluminum-rimmed dials, upgraded audio with 6-CD in-dash changer 16-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, sport seats, suspension and exhaust and a functional hood scoop. Its torque output is a healthy 217 lb.-ft. and, like the Linear, its transaxle choices are 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.


The comprehensive safety package includes front and rear energy-absorbing impact zones and a reinforced passenger cabin that incorporates door beams and (center) B-pillars designed to resist and redistribute side crash forces. In addition to the standard front airbags, head/thorax side bags are mounted in the front seat backrests, active front head restraints reduce the risk of neck injuries in case of a rear impact, and front belt pretensioners and load limiters combine to help manage crash forces on the bodies of front-seat occupants.

Comfort

Compared to their Subaru Impreza and WRX cousins, we found both 9-2Xs more refined and "European" in dynamic character, a fair bit nicer in terms of quietness and interior materials and delightfully fun to drive, especially the turbocharged Aero version. Designed with young urban dwellers and others—median age 28, median income $75K, 75 percent college grad—with access to only one car firmly in mind, both cars boast nearly 30 cu. ft. of cargo room with their rear seats up and more than double that with them folded down.


"The 9-2X is a milestone in expanding our model range and our customer base," said Saab Automobile President Peter Augustsson, "especially in the very important North American market. We see a rapidly emerging segment for a premium small car below the 9-3 Sport Sedan. And being one of the first entries, we intend to shape that segment." (www.saabusa.com)