2006 Saab 9-2X: Road Test

Archived Review

2006 Saab 9-2X 

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  • MSRP: $22,990 -$26,950
  • Invoice: $21,841 -$25,603

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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.

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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

Total Score: 52

Scores for all Premium Compact Cars

Low Score
52
Average Score
58
High Score
65

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