Mar 23, 2011
Saab says wagon version of 9-5 sedan on the way
The new Saab shows up at the Swedenburg Winery in Middleburg, Va. Isn't that appropriate?
By James Bell
Saab dealers will be getting an all-new wagon version of their provocative 9-5 sedan later this year, reports James Bell, president of the Motor Press Guild in Los Angeles who is on a Saab press drive in Virginia.
While sales of luxury wagons barely register a blip on sales sheets here in the U.S., it looks to be a satisfying and efficient alternative for families looking to trade-in large and lumbering SUVs, Saab officials are saying. The timing couldn't be better, especially as many drivers are showing signs of angst about rising gasoline prices.
Bell test drove the new 9-4X crossover today and snapped a photo of it outside the Swedenburg Winery in Middleburg, above. While the embargo hasn't lifted yet on driving impressions, he says "rest assured that this vehicle should put this venerable brand back on discriminating shopping lists across the country."
Anders Svensson, vehicle line director for Saab, told Bell that that Saab drivers traditionally like to "drive their cars ... not just ride in them." He feels that the new 9-4X will represent this spirit in a segment known for comfortable yet boring competitors such as the successful Lexus RX 350. In essence, this historic brand is working to reposition itself as an alternative to up-market BMW ... a role it enjoyed around the globe until GM's disastrous period of ownership began in 1990.
