2008 Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept

It’s about time

After several delays and a near-death experience, the Saab 9-4X has been confirmed for a world debut at Los Angeles Auto Show.

Based on the Cadillac SRX, the 9-4X features attractive styling which recalls the 9-4X BioPower Concept and the 9-5. Inside, traditional Saab design cues reign supreme as there’s a “7″ dash, a console-mounted ignition, and egg-crate air vents.

Engine options are expected to include a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 245 hp (183 kW / 248 PS) and a turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 with 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS). While official specifications haven’t been announced (heck, the LA Auto Show announced the debut – not Saab) the Chilean Saab website accidently revealed the 2.0-liter model would accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.4 seconds, top out at 250 km/h (155 mph), and consume 15.9 l/km (15 mpg US) city and 10.6 l/km (22 mpg US) highway.

U.S. sales are expected to begin in early spring, but we’ll find out more in November.

Source: twitter.com via autoblog.com

It’s been about six months since Spyker took over Saab from General Motors in a multi-million dollar deal.  This Dutch auto company is bound and determined to make Saab profitable again by the year 2012.  They’ve got a lot of great plans including a possible small car lineup as well as some updates to tried and true Saab models.  Let’s first take a look at what’s up for the 2011 car year.

The 2011 Chicago Saab 9-5 is due out anytime to your local dealership.  It’s been refreshed for this car year and has quite a bit of class to help someone begin or continue their “Saab Story”.  After a somewhat stale body that’s been around for awhile now, the exterior styling is all new is this sedan.  You can still tell it’s a Saab, with it’s logo meeting in the middle of the wheel spokes and on the front hood.  The body is more aerodynamic and modern looking.

The engine choices that will be installed in US bound Saab 9-5′s will be either a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder with 180 horsepower or a 2.8-liter V6 with 300 horsepower.  Both options will be turbocharged.  If I had a choice I’d opt for the V6 for even more power behind the wheel, but whatever you prefer will be a good thing!

A few other features that will come standard on your Chicago Saab 9-5 are the start/stop button (between the two front seats), Electric parking brake, adjustable and heated seats, and radio and cruise controls that are placed on the steering wheel.  Some of these can currently be found on the Chicago 2010 Saab 9-3 and 9-3 XWD.  A new feature, the real time damping control, will be offered on the 2011 9-5.  It will offer three suspension settings:  Intelligent, Sport, and Comfort.  Depending which one you choose, the dampers, throttle, and the steering control’s stiffness will be adjusted based on driving conditions.

The 2011 9-5 is a beautiful sedan that is predicted to do well on the lots, based on it’s updated styling and two engine offerings, to name a few.  Check it out with it arrives at your Chicago 2010 Saab dealership!

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews

Saab 99 last rally car MY1980, 1600, 09.08.2010

Would likely use a modified 92

According to a recent report, Saab will return to the World Rally Championship (WRC) for the first time since 1979.

While details are limited, officials from Spyker (Saab’s new owner) have reportedly met with WRC organizers to discuss the 2012 racing season. As an Autosport source stated, “The initial meeting (between Saab and WRC officials) has happened and there’s a huge amount of enthusiasm from all concerned. Like MINI, Saab has a great heritage in the sport and a return to the WRC makes a lot of sense.”

If Saab returns to the WRC, they will likely use a modified version of the new 92. Expected to be built on the MINI Cooper platform, the 92 will be powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. This is rather interesting, considering MINI is also returning to the WRC with a Countryman that uses the same engine.

Source: autosport.com

I often think of a Saab like a diamond in the rough.  It’s a really great car, but it’s often forgot about amongst other foreign cars in its class.  In February, after being under the reign of GM for 20 years, the Saab brand was sold to Spyker Cars, a Dutch company.  Many were excited about this move. Now Saab is under the reign of a company that really cares about a great car: they understand what the Saab name is all about. 

One particular Chicago Saab model continues to be one of the most enjoyable, sleekest cars in a class.  The 9-5 competes with the 5 series, Jaguar XF, and Mercedes-Benz E250, cars that really say a lot, by brand name alone.  But, there is a lot of uniqueness on what a Saab brings to the table.

Go inside a Chicago Saab 9-5 and you’ll see a design that mimics some aviation concepts.  Saab was built with some similar ideas that can be found inside a plane’s cockpit.  For example, in your 9-5, there is a button that you can press to suppress lights at night, except the speedometer.  Like on a plane, a pilot is able to suppress unnecessary light in the cockpit, as it affects night vision.  By having a similar button in a 9-5, you can eliminate light while driving at night that may take your focus off a safe drive.  Other cars in this class do not have that aviation-like feature.

Another perk with driving a Chicago Saab 9-5 is the comfort you’ll find within.  The seats are made with comfortable materials and sport contours.  You know the feeling when you want to lean your head back while driving and find that the head rest is not what you need, well, we’ve got a surprise for you inside a 9-5.  Lean back and find a super-comfortable head rest.  It might sound trivial, but rival cars do not offer the driving and riding comfort that the 9-5 does.

The Chicago Saab 9-5 offers simple luxuriousness that is hard to beat.  If you never thought about driving a Saab before, think again. This might be the right car for you!

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews

When Jason Castriota was a young child, he was already beginning his career in the auto industry.  From his own mouth he claims that “I literally started sketching Ferraris when I was about five years old,” he said. “For whatever reason, some kids might kick around a soccer ball, I picked up a pencil and started sketching cars.”  Thus, the start of an awesome career Castriota has had designing some amazing cars.

Recently, Castriota was hired by Saab to create a more luxurious 9-3 model that is scheduled for release in 2012.  According to Spyker’s CEO, Victor Muller, Castriota and his team have already put together a 9-3 design and it is amazing!  As you know, Spyker purchased Saab from GM in February 2010 and is committed to make the brand profitable again by 2012.  They are determined to make future Chicago 9-5 Griffin models more in tune with Swedish design.  After being under GM’s hat, some of the spunk was taken out of the brand by being part of a larger picture.  They want Saab cars to be their own men, so to speak. 

Castriota certainly sounds like the man for the job.  He was responsible for designing the Ferrari P4/5 and the Maserati GranTurismo, two fabulous sports cars.  His experience drove him to start his own company, Jason Castriota Designs.  He has five designers that work for him, with offices New York City and Turin, Italy.  Not only was he responsible for revamping the 9-3, but he’ll also have a vital part in designs on future models.

Another model that Saab/Spyker is looking to possibly bring back is the 92 model that was made from 1949 until 1956.  They are currently working with BMW to possibly use the MINI platform for this new design.  They feel that having a smaller scale car as a buyer’s option is important for making them profitable again.  They currently have Chicago 2010 Saab models on lots helping them on their journey back to being a top car brand!

Saabs truly are great cars.  I hope that Jason Castriota and his team are able to create some fresh, exciting models for us to drive.  Stay tuned and in the meantime, check out your local Saab dealer for the Chicago 9-5 Griffin and so much more!

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews

Saab vehicles are what I like to think of as “diamonds in the rough”.  You don’t see a ton of them on the roadways, but obviously they’re something special.  As General Motors cleaned house of other popular brands like Saturn and Pontiac, Saab was fabulous enough for one company to go out on a limb for.  Spyker Cars finalized a deal with GM back in February of this year to purchase the auto lineup for a pretty penny, to keep it intriguing for you.  They are currently hard at work producing new models that will make it to your Chicago 9-5 Griffin dealer.  One Saab model turning heads amongst auto industry experts is the new 2010 9-5!

The 2010 9-5 has a fresh look to it.  You can still see the Saab in it, but it really has a sportier look versus some other Saab models that are found on lots right now.  You still get the tell tale Saab logo that meets in the middle of the silver spokes on the wheels.  But, the exterior design now features A-pillars that give it a nice look and new lighting that has a modern bluish tint.  Size wise, this Chicago 2010 Saab is 197.2 inches long to be exact and can be found in the same class as the Audi A6 and the BMW 5 Series.  Clearly, this is one competitive class that features many luxurious automobiles!

The 9-5 also features some engines that give it awesome driving ability.  Both engine options have twin-scroll turbochargers and are artificially aspirated.  First, you can opt for the 2.8 Liter V6 that is found in the 9-5 Aero.  It gives off 300 HP and 295 lb-feet of torque which is certainly not for the faint hearted driver!   There is also a four-cylinder 2.0T V6 that is a front wheel drive.  The other 2.8 liter V6 Aero is an all wheel drive.  It is nice that there are several trims available for the Chicago 2010 Saab, giving Saab lovers the engine and driving style that fits him or her best!

Perhaps you’ve waited long enough for Saab to emerge victorious after much deliberation and deal-making between Spyker and GM.  Soon enough you’ll be able to head to your Chicago 9-5 Griffin store and test drive the new 9-5!

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews

A new model may be coming to your Chicago Saab 9-7x dealer.  Spyker, who now owns the company, is working on making an updated version of the 1950’s Classic 92 model.  They are currently in talks with other automakers to share the technology platform for this updated auto.  You’ve gotta hand it to Spyker, they’re working diligently  to keep the “Saab Story” going!

The classic 92 has a “teardrop shape” and was manufactured between 1949 and 1956.  A car that would’ve been popular when my parents were young children.  It has a pretty rich history in the auto world.  Many of the classic 92 models were painted in dark green.  Some say it’s because Saab had quite a bit of that color paint left over from the airplanes they made for the war.  Either way, it’s a cool color, one you don’t see as much on Chicago 2010 Saab models on sale now!

Between 1949 and 1956, Saab produced about 2oK of the Classic 92.  For it’s time, the 92 had a pretty advanced aerodynamic design.  It could reach 65 mph and came with a 2 cylinder, traversely mounted engine that gave off 25 hp.  Much less than the current Chicago Saab 9-7x, but still not bad, considering auto advances nearly 6o years ago!

In the years after the first 92 was introduced, subsequent editions of the car were more advanced.  For example, in 1953 the 92B came out.  It featured more luggage storage space and a bigger rear windshield.  In addition to the prevalent green color, a buyer could also have the option of getting a gray, blue-gray, or black 92.  The next year, in ‘54, the model received a new ignition coil that upped horsepower and a carburetor to make the car perform better.

It’s really cool to find out about older models in a line up of great Saab autos over the years.  Each model serves as a basis for building up to the next.   The Chicago 2010 Saab models we’ll see more of on the roadways were most likely inspired by the Classic 92 and other historic cars.

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews

2010 Saab 9-5, 24.03.2010

Heavy mix of GM-based vehicles

According to a recent report, Saab will launch five new models by the end of 2013.

On sale later this year, the redesigned 9-5 sedan will attempt to establish Saab as a legitimate player in the mid-size luxury segment. It faces an uphill battle, but has sleek styling, a long wheelbase, and a modern interior.

In 2011, Saab will launch the 9-5 Estate and the 9-4X crossover. The latter shares underpinnings with the Cadillac SRX and will be produced in Mexico. Unlike the 9-7X, the 9-4X will be available in Europe.

A year later, the company will introduce the redesigned 93. Expected to be offered as a three- and five-door hatchback, the 93 will ride on a modified version of the Epsilon I platform. Parts will be sourced from various automakers, so say goodbye to the GM parts bin.

Last but not least, Saab will introduce the highly-anticipated 92 in 2013. It will ride on another automaker’s platform and feature styling inspired by the original 92. Pricing will be 10% higher than the MINI Cooper and sales are expected to total 30,000 to 60,000 units annually.

Source: autocar

I recently came across an article about a man who was awarded a brand new Saab when he donated his old Saab to a museum.  The donated car, a 1989 900SPG, belonged to a Wisconsin man who used it for work.  Over the course of ownership, he put a million miles on the car working as a traveling insurance salesman!  No joke, and it even had the original engine and turbocharger.  This gives you a clear example of how well built and durable your Chicago Saab autos really are!

This was in 2006 and the Wisconsin man who accomplished this feat was Peter Gilbert.  In exchange for his well used car,  in early 2007 Saab awarded Mr. Gilbert with a brand new Saab 9-5 Aero, for free!  He was obviously thrilled, and said he might even attempt to put another million miles on this one!

It’s now 2010 and I tried to find some information on what Peter Gilbert is up to these days.  My Google search found a lot of information along the lines of what is here, but not much about “what he’s doing today”.  It did note that he made a trip to Detroit, along with other Saab lovers, to show support for the name.  They gathered outside of GM Headquarters, chanting and posting signs reading “Save Saab”.  This was in Jan of this year, right before Spyker bought Saab from GM and started to move forward with the newest Chicago 2010 Saab models!

I also found some information about how he took care of his 1989 ‘89 900SPG.  For example, he made sure to keep up with changing the oil (every 7500 miles), fluids, and regular maintenance in accordance with what the manual said, if not more often.  He also used Mobil 1 0W40 oil since it reduced sludge and was a good choice for how often he drove his Chicago Saab, which was obviously all the time!

This truly is a great story.  Mr. Gilbert is a man I would like to meet.  If he has liked Saabs all these years, hopefully he’s checked out the latest Chicago 2010 Saab to see how it compares with ones he’s driven in the past, especially his million mile Saab!

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews

Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept

[Disclaimer: Pictured here is the Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept.]

Word is that BMW and Saab are in talks regarding possible cooperation when it comes to the upcoming Saab 92 mini car. Note the absence of a hyphen between the 9 and 2. That is part of the brand’s new naming strategy for future models like the 93 and 94X.

According to sources close to the matter, the two companies are discussing ways of sharing parts and technologies for such a car. It is said BMW would supply Saab with the MINI platform, engines and gearboxes for what will clearly be a competitive car. The inspiration for the baby 92 would be the teardrop-shaped car made between 1949 and 1956. It is expected to be about 10 percent bigger than the MINI.

New Saab owner Spyker aims to sell at least 30,000 units per annum when it comes to market between 2012 and 2014, with optimistic forecasts even predicting yearly volumes of 60,000 or half of Saab’s total volume.

Spyker CEO Victor Muller believes the recession has offered the best opportunity for smaller companies like his to collaborate with the bigger boys who are actively looking at slashing production costs by sharing more of their closely-guarded proprietary technologies than ever before.

Both Saab and BMW executives did not comment on the possible tie-up. However, Muller did reveal that an announcement would be made within the next three months.

Source: bloombeg

Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept

Company aims to be profitable by 2012

[Disclaimer: Pictured here is the Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept and Saab 9-X Air Concept.]

Victor Muller has revealed more details about Saab’s future product lineup.

Speaking with InsideLine, Muller stated the 2013 (or 2014) 9-2 will be “stunning to look at, ingenious and an outstanding premium product.” It will ride on a shortened version of the 9-3 platform or a platform from another automaker. Pricing will be 10% higher than the MINI Cooper and sales are expected to total 30,000 to 60,000 units annually.

Later this year, the company will introduce a facelifted 9-3. In 2011, Saab will launch the 9-4X crossover (April), the 9-5 Sport Combi (June), and a new 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. For 2012, the company will unveil a redesigned 9-3 which will ride on a modified version of the current Epsilon I platform. Further out, a 9-3 Hybrid will be introduced and an electric vehicle will be launched by 2016.

If everything goes according to plan, Muller expects Saab will be profitable in 2012 with sales totaling 120,000 to 125,000 units. 

Source: insideline

Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept

Company aims to be profitable by 2012

[Disclaimer: Pictured here is the Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept and Saab 9-X Air Concept.]

Victor Muller has revealed more details about Saab’s future product lineup.

Speaking with InsideLine, Muller stated the 2013 (or 2014) 9-2 will be “stunning to look at, ingenious and an outstanding premium product.” It will ride on a shortened version of the 9-3 platform or a platform from another automaker. Pricing will be 10% higher than the MINI Cooper and sales are expected to total 30,000 to 60,000 units annually.

Later this year, the company will introduce a facelifted 9-3. In 2011, Saab will launch the 9-4X crossover (April), the 9-5 Sport Combi (June), and a new 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. For 2012, the company will unveil a redesigned 9-3 which will ride on a modified version of the current Epsilon I platform. Further out, a 9-3 Hybrid will be introduced and an electric vehicle will be launched by 2016.

If everything goes according to plan, Muller expects Saab will be profitable in 2012 with sales totaling 120,000 to 125,000 units. 

Source: insideline

Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept at Geneva Motor Show

The 9-2 model will be a ’super-cool’ compact car to compete against the likes of MINI

[Disclaimer: Pictured here is the Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept.]

More movement on the re-birth of the Saab 9-2 (designated the 92 in the 1950s). Now, Saab owner Spyker is in talks with a contractor to build the new compact model for the Saab lineup.

Saab CEO Victor Muller told Bloomberg news that the company was in talks with other manufacturers to share technology on a new small-car platform upon which Saab will build a new 9-2 model.

“Discussions are already ongoing [with other manufacturers],” Muller is quoted as saying. “That will be on my plate for the next 100 days.”

Muller did not reveal which contractor he was speaking to. But he did say that the new 9-2 would come with the same tear-drop shape as the original model and that it would be a “super-cool” compact car to compete against the likes of MINI.

Although no images of the new design are available yet (pictured here are photos of the Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept), Muller says he’s looking at design renderings for the car every day and that he takes the latest sketches with him when he travels.

The 9-2 will take a few years to get to production and will likely be introduced sometime around 2013.

Source: autocar.co.uk

A very useful feature will continue in appearing in Chicago 2010 Saab cars and future model years as well.  That cool amenity is  OnStar.  After General Motors sold Saab to Spyker this past winter, the new Saab boss has announced it will continue to provide it in upcoming models. 

What exactly is OnStar and how does it work?  Some of you might be familiar with it, others may not.  It acts as a communications system through a subscription, in-vehicle security, hands free phoning, navigation by each turn your car takes, and diagnostics systems.

For example, your new Chicago 2010 Saab is involved in a crash.  If you have OnStar installed and ACTIVATED (it will not work if not properly working); it may help save you or your passenger’s life if seriously injured.  The system will pick up data such as if the vehicle has rolled over, point of impact, etc.  An OnStar data call center will route it to the closest EMT and get the appropriate medical care to the accident site ASAP.  This is part of the Automatic Crash Response.

Take another scenario.  You get out of a concert, it’s late at night.  You go to lot F1, where you and your three friends are 100% positive you parked next to another Chicago Saab in the lot.  It’ s not there. Your car is gone, you frantically check nearby rows, nothing.  You realize your car has been stolen!  Here’s where OnStar comes in.

You first have to report your stolen vehicle to the police, as the OnStar feature will not be activated before confirming with police that the car has been reported stolen.  The Stolen Vehicle Tracking can provide law enforcement with the vehicle’s exact location, speed and direction of movement in hopes of tracking it down and getting it back safe and sound for you.

These are just a few examples of the aid that OnStar can provide to owners that have it activated in their Saab model.  The first year comes free, after that it’s up to you to renew, or possibly upgrade to a more comprehensive package.

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews

With Spyker working extremely hard to get Saab back in the auto race, there’s news about a new model coming into future inventory at your Saab of Chicago dealership.  How about a 9-5 X wagon and a 9-5X Sport Combi wagon with “cross wheel drive”?   Sounds like something I’d like to hear more about, and hope you do too!

The 9-5 X Wagon series is expected to be sold as a 2011 model, which means we have a little while to wait.  As you probably know, Saab models are a little behind, car year wise, due to the pending sale of the brand and uncertainty at General Motors.  Right now, many dealerships have limited inventories of Chicago 2010 Saab models, but this will be changing soon.  Keep checking your favorite dealer for the latest updates.

If the news about the 9-5X wagons has gotten you in the mood for a Saab, consider the 9-3 Sport Combi, which is set to be at your Saab of Chicago dealership this spring as a new model.  It is available in the base (2.0 T) model and the Aero version.  Both have many features that the owner will find useful.

For example, the 2.0 T and Aero both have a nice interior with a lighted and cooled glove box, adjustable headrests, and a sporty steering wheel trimmed in leather.  Both trims also come with audio controls on the steering wheel and MP3 compatibility, as well as a stereo system with excellent sound quality!

Safety-wise, both of these Chicago 2010 Saab models have amenities that meet federal regulations, ensuring safe travels for you and your family or friends!  You’ll find that all safety and security features come standard, whether you opt for the 2.0T or Aero.  There are plenty of side and front airbags throughout the cabin and Saab’s active head restraints, found in the front seats.  These are just a few of the extensive safety features Saab/Spyker takes great care to install in every vehicle.

After reading all this information, have you decided to create your own “Saab Story”?!?

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews

Wasting no time, Saab has three new models that will arrive over the next year of time, all of which our Chicago Saab dealership, Patrick Saab, are quite excited about. First, Chicago Saab 9-3 drivers will be introduced to the improved Saab 9-3X this spring. Next, the summer will welcome to Chicago Saab 9-5 Luxury sedans for all of your driving needs. Finally, the automaker is looking ahead to the spring of 2011 and plans to introduce the new Saab 9-4X. Few details of this model have been leaked as of now, but stay tuned as I’m certain statistics and pictures will be coming soon.

These models are proof of the company’s intention to remain forward looking. Victor Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars said “… we will be concentrating all of our efforts into reviving Saab and transforming it into a sustainable and profitable company with the confidence to be bold. We will reinforce the emotional experience between Saab drivers and their cars and we will focus on Saab’s historical strengths in the fields of independent thinking, aircraft heritage, ecological performance and motorsport.” Chicago Saab 9-3 and Chicago Saab 9-5 drivers, as well as drivers of other Saab models, are sure to feel positively about these actions. Saab drivers, as stated above, have a unique relationship with their car and thanks to the Spyker/Saab deal that relationship can continue to grow and flourish. As GM’s vice president for corporate planning and alliances, John Smith, said on the day of ownership transfer, “This is a great day for Saab employees, dealers and suppliers, and a great day for millions of Saab customers and fans worldwide.”

Visit your Chicago Saab dealership, Patrick Saab, to check out the Saab 9-3X and get more details on the new Saab vehicles that are in the works. I’m certain that you won’t be disappointed.

Source: Chicago Saab News, Video and Reviews