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Saab's Compact 9-2X is Coming for Canada Day 2004

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Alex Law

Saab 9-2X is 4,460 mm long on a wheelbase of 2,525 mm and is capable of holding 61.6 cu-ft of stuff with the rear seatback down.

When it's not crammed with lifestyle gear or something else, the 9-2X promises to be a pretty good place for people, too, particularly if they're fond of what Augustsson calls a "distinctive Scandinavian ambience."

With a "distinctive Scandinavian ambience", the interior of the 9-2X lives up to Saab's premium standard. (Photo: General Motors

There are Metal-rimmed round dials in the instrument panel, and a center console that integrates the gear lever gate and three distinct climate control knobs, if not the ignition key. It's finished in an aluminum color, while the gear lever knob itself is covered with leather (which is an option on the Linear model).

Considering the relatively low price, the number of high level features found in the 9-2X is impressive. (Photo: General Motors)

There's also a leather-covered three-spoke steering wheel that's standard equipment on the Aero model. "The upholstery has a youthful feel with bold colors and high contrast," says Augustsson, and this attitude is reflected by the inner door cover panels. While the basic color used throughout the interior is black, the door panels are highlighted by contrasting color inserts. They perfectly match the materials used for the middle inserts of the seats.

Bearing those relatively low prices in mind, Augustsson says, it's interesting to note that "The standard equipment level of the Saab 9-2X leaves little to be desired, with all features executed to the brand's renowned premium standard."

More specifically, standard equipment in all 9-2X models includes: air conditioning, cruise control, 16 x 6.5-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 all-season tires, an AM/FM/CD Stereo, a height-adjustable driver's seat, a tilt steering wheel, power doors with a remote key, power windows and mirrors, a rear wiper/washer, tinted glass, a cargo cover and light, dual overhead map lights and a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat.

On top of that, the 9-2X Aero gets larger, vented front brake discs, a hood air intake, a sport exhaust tail pipe, front fog lamps, special light alloy wheels, a semi-automatic climate control system, a six-disc in-dash CD changer, a leather-wrapped shifter knob and handbrake handle, and leather-wrapped three spoke sport steering wheel.

Stay tuned for more details and driving impressions in due course.

Alex Law
Alex Law
Automotive expert