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2006 Saab 9-2X Road Test
Date Published: 11/23/08
Also in the 2006 Saab 9-2X Review:

Our road test for the 2006 Saab 9-2X includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Saab 9-2X from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Saab 9-2X, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Saab 9-2X help you decide if a 2006 Saab 9-2X is right for you.
2006 Saab 9-2X Road Test
Pros Cons
All-wheel drive Rear-seat room
Brake performance Rear-seat entry/exit
Control layout
Steering/handling
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
4 4 6.2

With similar weight, identical horsepower, 9-2X mimics comparable Impreza models. 2.5i with automatic transmission adequate for routine work, livelier with manual. No opportunity yet to test Aero.
Fuel Economy

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
5 5 5.4

No opportunity to measure. Aeros require premium-grade fuel.
Ride Quality

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
5 5 5.9

Saab suspension tuning softens ride slightly compared to Impreza. Still, ride always firm and suspension readily transmits small, sharp bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
7 7 7.2

Crisp, rewarding, with added grip, security of standard AWD. Saab retunes Subaru steering for slightly more positive feel. Fine stopping power, and--in contrast to comparable Imprezas tested--firm, easily modulated brake-pedal feel.
Quietness

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
5 5 6.1

Sound-deadening added by Saab pays off in generally subdued noise from engines, tires, wind compared to Impreza.
Controls

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
7 7 7

Simple, user-friendly gauges, control layout carries over from Impreza, with Saab upgrades to cabin fabrics elevating overall ambience, especially with leather upholstery.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
5 5 6.5

Good head clearance, but very tall occupants will want more rearward seat travel. Seats comfortable, supportive. Steering wheel tilts but doesn't telescope, as in some premium-compact rivals. Lack of power seat adjustments another competitive deficit.
Room/Comfort (rear)

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
3 3 3.6

Sufficient head room for those up to about 5-ft-11, but leg room tight if front seats even halfway back. Entry/exit hampered by fairly deep step-down, narrow thresholds, doors that should open wider.
Cargo Room

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
8 8 4.7

Wagon body style, 60/40 split folding rear seats make for versatile little hauler, though cabin storage space stingy.
Value within Class

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
3 3 6.1

Saab's changes to exterior styling, sound deadening, and interior trim do their part to disguise this car's Subaru Impreza origins. And the versatile wagon body style and all-season AWD traction have some appeal. But there's no hiding the tepid base engine or modest interior space. Still, 9-2X, like Saab in general, lies off the beaten path, which should mean deeper price breaks than with more mainstream competition.
Total Score

2.5i, man. 2.5i w/Leather Pkg., auto. Class Average
52 52 58.7
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars

Low Score
52
Average Score
58
High Score
65
Also in the 2006 Saab 9-2X Review:

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