2012 Saab 9-4X
Saab 9-4X brings unique design and engineering values to the growing mid-size crossover segment. With distinctive Scandinavian and aircraft-inspired looks, it also offers car-like handling and ride characteristics that challenge class benchmarks.
Making its world premiere at the 2010 Los Angles Auto Show, the Saab 9-4X expands Saab’s product portfolio to three car lines and will provide a fresh, alternative choice for independently-minded crossover buyers. It is an important next-step in the Swedish brand’s renaissance as an independent premium car manufacturer.
Muscular and sporty to drive, the Saab 9-4X is aligned in looks and size between the 9-3X all-rounder and new 9-5 sedan. Outside and inside, it communicates its Saab identity with clean, uncluttered design and signature motifs, such as its wraparound-effect windshield, ice block lighting theme, driver-focused cockpit and flexible cargo handling. In true Saab tradition, the 9-4X delivers on its sporty persona. It is configured around a unique, purpose-designed crossover body structure, which has been key to delivering its exceptional handling and ride properties. Car-like driving dynamics are supported by Saab’s advanced all-wheel-drive system, Saab XWD, and DriveSense adaptive chassis control.
Under the hood, nestles a choice of compact and efficient V6 engines, naturally-aspirated or turbocharged. The 265 hp, 3.0-liter motor for the entry-level model features direct fuel injection and variable valve timing; while the 300 hp, 2.8-liter exchanges direct injection for twin-scroll turbocharging and is exclusive to top-of-line Aero variants. Both engines are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions under adaptive, electronic control.
The 2012 Saab 9-4X cuts a broad and powerful stance, with clean, uncluttered lines that echo Saab’s Scandinavian design ethos. Its distinctive face, in common with the new 9-5 sedan, draws inspiration from the award-winning Aero X concept car, with a deep, three-port grille and ‘ice-block’-effect lighting themes. Disguised windshield and door pillars create Saab’s signature wraparound-effect, the single glasshouse graphic emphasizing the brand’s traditional ‘cockpit’ look. Other exterior Saab identifiers include the shaping of the headlamps, a ‘hockey stick’ waistline and strong C-pillars complemented by a wraparound-effect rear screen.
The roofline is visually lowered and extended by a rear spoiler integrated in to the tailgate. At the rear, the lighting carries forward a signature introduced by the new 9-5 sedan. An ‘ice-block’ bar lit by LEDs extends across the lower tailgate and wraps around the light units. Twin rhomboid-shaped exhaust tailpipes are also neatly integrated into the lower bumper molding. Overall, the 2012 Saab 9-4X’s bodywork is noticeably free from unnecessary decoration or trim. A dark protective appliqué is applied to the lower body, but there are no wheel-arch claddings or protective body panels. Entry-level variants are fitted with 18-inch, six-spoke alloy wheels and Aero models are distinguished by 20-inch, nine-spoke ‘turbine’ alloy wheels, as well as a black mesh front grille.




