No such concerns are present for the new 9-2X, rooted solidly in Subaru's World Rally class Impreza WRX. In Saab form it takes the form of a five door hatchback, more like the WRX wagon that doesn't compete in the WRC series. With the added space in back, the 9-2X leapfrogs over much of the sedan-only competition. On the plus side, thanks to its Subaru genes, the compact Saab should offer excellent build quality, better than average durability, plus the added grip of a proven all-wheel drive system.
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| The 9-2X will take it's design form from Subaru's five door hatchback, the WRX wagon. (Photo: Subaru) |
Rather than just using the 227-hp 2.0 liter turbocharged boxer from the base WRX, featured in the top-line Aero, the 9-2X will offer an entry-level naturally aspirated 2.5-L four-cylinder, yielding 165 horsepower in Subaru guise. This should make for some pretty tough competition against Volvo's upcoming turbocharged, all-wheel driven S40 T4 - itself based on upcoming Ford Focus architecture.
Though prices haven't been announced as of yet, Saab is convinced its 9-2X will be key to the brand's revival. For once, the alternative Swedish automaker will in the sights of compact luxury buyers in North American. Europe's Saab division would be wise to take note, and avoid getting beat up on the sales charts by Volvo and other premium compact carmakers.
Who else is in the game? Audi offers its Golf-based A3 in Europe, while BMW currently offers an abbreviated 3-Series Compact hatchback - again the 1-Series is on the way. Mercedes-Benz offers its C-Coupe, hardly more than a hatchback as well, while a variety of Europe-only brands deliver up a bevy of alternatives. The majority of Saab competitors also have entries in the subcompact class as well, some of which are destined for North America, but these aren't seen as direct competitors for the larger 9-2X.