New Saab 9-4X SUV

Saab is still trying to work through its problems, but the Swedish carmaker has some good news from the States. The first examples of the firm’s new crossover, the Cadillac SRX-based 9-4X, have just arrived at US showrooms.

“Our first vehicles are just hitting retailers and our first customer sale took place last weekend at Saab North Olmstead in Cleveland, Ohio” said President and COO of Saab Cars North America, Tim Colbeck.

The first US buyer of the 9-4X is Martin Reuben. “Before even driving it off the lot, I put my butt into the seat, looked around and bought it on the spot,” replied Martin. “So far everything I’ve discovered on this car is pure Saab – purposeful & well designed.” Saab has already 100 orders placed for its new SUV.

In the US, the 9-4X is offered with two V6 engines, a naturally-aspirated 3.0-liter with direct-injection producing 265HP and 223 lb-ft (302Nm), and a 2.8-liter unit with a twin-scroll turbocharger delivering 300HP and 295 lb-ft (400Nm).

Both V6 units are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions. The base 265HP V6 is available with front-wheel drive or Saab's XWD all-wheel drive system, while the 300HP version only with four-wheel drive.

The 9-4X is built alongside the Cadillac SRX at GM’s factory in Mexico.

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