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2009 Saab 9-3 Aero XWD Review

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Luc Gagné
All-wheel drive is finally here!
The 2009 Saab 9-3 Aero XWD also benefits from a number of specific features, including an electronic limited-slip differential, self-leveling rear shock absorbers, 18-inch alloy wheels (instead of 17) and performance tires (summer only). Of course, winter tires are a must during the cold season.

The 2009 Saab 9-3 Aero XWD also benefits from a number of specific features.

XWD is fully automatic and permanently engaged. In normal driving conditions, on dry pavement, it transfers 5-10 percent of the engine's torque to the rear wheels just for the sake of improved stability under acceleration and greater fuel economy (premium gas is required, though). Here, it does not really neutralize the understeer propensity of the 9-3.

However, as soon as the car starts to lose grip, the XWD system can send 100 percent of the available torque to either the front or rear wheels, in just 80 milliseconds, depending on traction needs. The operation is completely seamless.

XWD is extremely sharp and effective, delaying the activation of traction control in accelerations and cornering maneuvers. As a result, the driver enjoys greater control over the car.

Plenty of power under the hood
The 9-3 Aero XWD I tested used a 2.8L turbocharged V6 that produces 280 horsepower, or 25 more than the front-wheel drive variant. This much-appreciated output gain translates into a real feeling of power under acceleration.

The transversally-mounted, all-aluminum engine features variable inlet valve timing and a dual-scroll turbocharger. Delivering gobs of torque (295 pounds-feet), it allows the 9-3 Aero XWD to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 7 seconds.

While strong, passing maneuvers suffer from a noticeable delay in the power delivery, likely attributable to all that computerized management of driving dynamics and torque distribution.

XWD is fully automatic and permanently engaged.
Luc Gagné
Luc Gagné
Automotive expert
  • More than 30 years of experience as an automotive journalist
  • Over 59 test drives in the past year
  • Attended over 150 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists