SAAB has taken another important step towards the introduction of a new crossover vehicle for the premium sector of the market.
The Swedish company is displaying its 9-4X BioPower concept car at this month’s Detroit motor show, which will form the basis of its new crossover model destined for the rapidly-expanding European market.
Saab managing director, Jan Åke Jonsson, says: ``It is an important next step in our plans to enter new market segments with distinctive product offerings.”
Optimised for bioethanol E85 fuel, the four-cylinder 2.0-litre BioPower turbo engine generates 300bhp and strong torque of 295 lb ft.
Compared with petrol, E85 produces less CO2 emissions because it is a combination of just 15 per cent petrol and 85 per cent bioethanol, even when using the vehicle’s four wheel drive system.
Saab says that the newcomer will be driver-focused and will offer just four seats inside although there will be a panoramic sunroof.
Driver involvement is said to be taken to a new level by the innovative all-wheel-drive system.
Active management splits torque between both the axles and the rear wheels via an electronically-controlled rear limited-slip differential.
The company says of its forthcoming crossover: ``It is a vivid demonstration of Saab’s commitment to customers with outdoor leisure interests who seek a sporty driving experience that is more in harmony with nature.’’
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