2005 Saab 9-2X Road Test

With all the attention paid to safety details Lars would have had little to worry about though, as the 9-2X is even more advanced in this area than the majority of Saab predecessors were in their respective eras.

The 9-2X is even more advanced when it comes to safety features than the majority of Saab predecessors, due to its advanced all-wheel drive system. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

While a viscous limited-slip differential has been added at the rear to aid in stability, the real difference is the car's all-wheel drivetrain, the stuff of legends. It's pulled from a brand that once dominated world rally circuits, winning event after event and multiple championships. The very thought of a Saab rally car sends tingles of excitement up the spine, doesn't it? After all, how much more effort would it take for Subaru and Saab to join forces, one entering a sedan and the other a wagon, distinctly different in appearance but sharing identical components. The economies of scale would be beneficial to Subaru and the visibility a bonus for Saab, a brand that long ago was involved in the sport.

So before I digressed into WRC, where was I? Oh yeah, detailed safety features. Adding to its rigid body structure, energy absorbing impact zones with multiple load paths disperse shock throughout the framework surrounding the cabin, which itself is strengthened to protect occupants. Saab has also reinforced the door-beams and B-pillars for

From its rigid body structure, plus reinforced door-beams and B-pillars, to its 3-point seatbelts at all five seating positions, the 9-2X has been built with safety in mind. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

added strength in the event of side impacts. Additionally the 9-2X gets 3-point seatbelts at all five seating positions, plus pretensioners with load limiters up front.

Dual front airbags are, of course, standard, as are head-torso side airbags mounted in the front seatbacks. The front seats also get active head restraints for protecting the neck from whiplash in the event of a rear-end collision.

Important for safety is a good set of wheels and tires, and the 9-2X is well equipped even in standard trim. The Linear model starts with 16-inch alloy rims wrapped in 205/55 R16 all-season rubber. Additional standard equipment includes a 4-speaker AM/FM single-disc CD, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power windows, a tilt-adjustable steering and power-adjustable outside mirrors.