If you're a big fan of safety, the 9-2X will satisfy as easily as its handling. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it top marks in crash tests, and front and side airbags were standard equipment.
Other standard features included automatic climate control, cruise control, power locks mirrors and windows, and remote access. A sunroof was optional, and heated seats were available as well- working nicely with the all wheel drive for comfortable wintertime driving.
The Impreza was notorious for using econo-box stereo systems, and the same components made it into the 9-2x. A six-CD changer was available, though a used model with an aftermarket stereo system may be a good idea if you like music.
Being powered by the largely bulletproof Subaru engine lineup means mechanical issues are few and far between. While researching, a list of expensive, common problems typical in many used vehicles was absent.
Owners tend to report annoyance with smaller issues. Apparently, with any sort of mileage, the 9-2X begins squeaking and rattling like a family of mice in a snakepit. Easily-stained fabrics and poor mileage on turbo models round up the most common gripes.
Other complaints include badges which come of easily, as well as rust spots forming on relatively new vehicles. If you're considering a Saab 9-2X, be sure to inspect its paint thoroughly under varying lighting conditions.
On a test drive, listen for any strange clunking, grinding or rubbing sounds- especially from the front of the car. Any such noises should be questioned and inspected- though several are said to be acceptable.
For instance, a ratcheting, clicking sound in reverse while steering may be a sign that the differential fluid needs to be changed or topped up.
A rubbing or grinding noise that seems to go away at higher speeds could be a piece of road debris caught in between the dust-shield and brake rotors. A strategically aimed pressure-washer nozzle can usually solve this one.
Finally, a strange, faint, high-pitched and nearly inaudible ringing tone after leaving the car may indicate that the alarm siren is on its way out.
None of this is major stuff, really- and in all the 9-2X comes off as a largely simple, reliable and upscale all-weather wagon that's a lot of fun to drive. Telling Subaru owners that your Saab can out-handle their WRX is always a gas too. If you secretly idolize those Subaru guys but don't want to look like one, then the 9-2X is worth a peek.
Other standard features included automatic climate control, cruise control, power locks mirrors and windows, and remote access. A sunroof was optional, and heated seats were available as well- working nicely with the all wheel drive for comfortable wintertime driving.
The Impreza was notorious for using econo-box stereo systems, and the same components made it into the 9-2x. A six-CD changer was available, though a used model with an aftermarket stereo system may be a good idea if you like music.
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| 2005 Saab 9-2x |
Being powered by the largely bulletproof Subaru engine lineup means mechanical issues are few and far between. While researching, a list of expensive, common problems typical in many used vehicles was absent.
Owners tend to report annoyance with smaller issues. Apparently, with any sort of mileage, the 9-2X begins squeaking and rattling like a family of mice in a snakepit. Easily-stained fabrics and poor mileage on turbo models round up the most common gripes.
Other complaints include badges which come of easily, as well as rust spots forming on relatively new vehicles. If you're considering a Saab 9-2X, be sure to inspect its paint thoroughly under varying lighting conditions.
On a test drive, listen for any strange clunking, grinding or rubbing sounds- especially from the front of the car. Any such noises should be questioned and inspected- though several are said to be acceptable.
For instance, a ratcheting, clicking sound in reverse while steering may be a sign that the differential fluid needs to be changed or topped up.
A rubbing or grinding noise that seems to go away at higher speeds could be a piece of road debris caught in between the dust-shield and brake rotors. A strategically aimed pressure-washer nozzle can usually solve this one.
Finally, a strange, faint, high-pitched and nearly inaudible ringing tone after leaving the car may indicate that the alarm siren is on its way out.
None of this is major stuff, really- and in all the 9-2X comes off as a largely simple, reliable and upscale all-weather wagon that's a lot of fun to drive. Telling Subaru owners that your Saab can out-handle their WRX is always a gas too. If you secretly idolize those Subaru guys but don't want to look like one, then the 9-2X is worth a peek.