2005 Saab 9-2X Road Test

I don't know if having one of the event staff drive up in an Impreza wagon was planned by GM's PR division or if it happened just by chance, but it gave me a first hand

The functional hood scoop that comes as part of the Aero model is similar to the one found on the legendary WRX. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

opportunity to see the differences between the two cars, most of which have eluded me up until now. The front end styling changes are obvious, with the new 9-2X looking like its larger siblings in every way, even nicer than the 9-5. I particularly like the functional hood scoop that comes as part of the Aero model, similar to that on the now legendary Impreza WRX. It's a great looking car from this angle, much nicer in appearance than the Subaru in my opinion.

From profile view only the Saab's side marker treatment differentiates it from the Subaru, despite the taillights and surrounding fascia having been completely modified. In actual fact, by using a

Only until you see the 9-2X and Impreza side by side do the differences become apparent. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

sophisticated measuring implement (OK it was a stick lying on the ground but beggars can't be choosers) I was able to verify that the Saab's rear lenses are actually about one to two inches shorter in height than the Subaru's, but I would have liked it better if Saab had made them even more unique. To the naked eye, despite the revised lens patterns, they look almost identical.

And modifying them beyond recognition wouldn't have been too difficult to do, as extending them into the completely revised liftgate would have separated the two cars completely. The liftgate integrates the license plate, which is in the bumper of the Subaru, while the rear fascia is reshaped and roof mounted spoiler slightly different than that on the Impreza wagon.