2005 Saab 9-2X Linear Road Test

Making the Saab unmistakably different is the refined interior, which has a stronger, more refined plastic finish than the

The two-tone black/beige upholstered cabin featured a fabulous sleek but sporty composition. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

Impreza. In addition, the two-tone black/beige upholstered cabin featured a fabulous sleek but sporty composition. Everyone who sat in my test Saab commented on how sophisticated the interior looked. It was even a hit with my temporary children - the one's I take care of on a regular basis.

What made it an even bigger hit with me were the heated front seats (which are part of the cold weather package which also included heated outer mirrors and a wiper de-icer for an extra $810). Within moments, the seats started to warm up, probably the quickest result I've ever encountered with butt warmers after initial startup. They are a definite plus, especially in the cold and crisp weather I experienced during my test week.

What also sparked my interest was the interior layout. The 9-2X's cabin is to-the-point. All the gauges on the instrument cluster are easily readable, the buttons are well

While the 9-2X's interior isn't particularly fancy, it's functional and user-friendly. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

placed and the stereo is easy to operate. While it isn't particularly fancy, it's functional and user-friendly.

Although my test "Saabaru" didn't come with the premium leather package interior, it did have an exceptionally engineered three-spoke sport-styled steering wheel which was magic to my fingers. The tight steering coupled with Subaru's famous All-Wheel Drive system and firm front and rear MacPherson struts with coil springs, for a symbiotic balance of "sport meets street." The specially-tuned sport suspension was developed with the Saab customer in mind, featuring all the right components for a luxury sports wagon.