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2006 Saab 9-7X Full Review
Date Published: 7/03/08
Also in the 2006 Saab 9-7X Review:
2006 Saab 9-7X Review
Saab's first SUV is a truck-type wagon with standard all-wheel drive and available 6- and 8-cyl engines. General Motors owns Saab, and the 9-7X gets its basic architecture from the GM midsize-SUV family that includes the Chevrolet TrailBlazer. It has Saab styling cues, a Saab-style dashboard, and the Swedish brand's traditional center-console-mounted ignition switch. Other differences include Saab-specific steering, suspension, and brake systems. It comes in a single body length with seating for five. Powertrains are from GM: a 290-hp inline 6-cyl or 300-hp V8. The V8 features GM's Active Fuel Management, which deactivates four cylinders while cruising to save fuel. A 4-speed automatic is the sole transmission. The AWD lacks low-range gearing. ABS, antiskid system, and load-leveling suspension are standard. So are curtain side airbags with rollover deployment. Power-adjustable pedals and xenon headlights are standard on the V8, available on the 6-cyl. A navigation system is optional.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.
Our Best Buys include Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended picks are Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Saab 9-7X.
Our Best Buys include Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended picks are Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Saab 9-7X.
News
Demand for General Motors' midsize SUVs is weak these days, and the 9-7X is no exception. The current U.S.-sourced design returns for 2007, but it's unclear what happens then, if anything. Though GM recently killed a planned Subaru-based 9-6X, Saab is slated to get a large U.S.-built crossover wagon on the new GM Lambda platform premiering with the '07 Saturn Outlook. We think that vehicle will replace the 9-7X for model-year 2008, but that's just a guess right now.
Meantime, reports indicate Saab will add a smaller crossover, likely to be called 9-4X, sharing GM's Theta architecture with the Saturn Vue. Engines are said to comprise 2.8- and 3.5-liter V6s, again taken from GM's broad shelf. Like the larger Lambda model, Saab's Theta wagon would be produced in the U.S., but would seat five, not seven passengers.
Meantime, reports indicate Saab will add a smaller crossover, likely to be called 9-4X, sharing GM's Theta architecture with the Saturn Vue. Engines are said to comprise 2.8- and 3.5-liter V6s, again taken from GM's broad shelf. Like the larger Lambda model, Saab's Theta wagon would be produced in the U.S., but would seat five, not seven passengers.
2006 Saab 9-7X Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Fuel economy |
| Passenger and cargo room | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
The 6-cyl provides brisk takeoffs and adequate passing power. The V8 feels measurably stronger on both counts. Hilly terrain means frequent shifting from the standard 4-speed automatic transmission; leading class competitors feature 5- and 6-speed automatics that respond more adeptly to changing power demands. Towing capacity is 6500 lb with the V8.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6.2 |
The 6-cyl provides brisk takeoffs and adequate passing power. The V8 feels measurably stronger on both counts. Hilly terrain means frequent shifting from the standard 4-speed automatic transmission; leading class competitors feature 5- and 6-speed automatics that respond more adeptly to changing power demands. Towing capacity is 6500 lb with the V8.
Fuel Economy
No opportunity to measure with 6-cyl. Test V8 models averaged 15.0 mpg. Saab recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 3.4 |
No opportunity to measure with 6-cyl. Test V8 models averaged 15.0 mpg. Saab recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.
Ride Quality
Firm and generally composed, helped by standard air-spring rear suspension. Still, some surfaces bring out bounciness inherent to 9-7X's basic GM platform.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Firm and generally composed, helped by standard air-spring rear suspension. Still, some surfaces bring out bounciness inherent to 9-7X's basic GM platform.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Though not car-agile, an improvement over GM cousins. Steering direct, nicely weighted. Cornering lean modest with good grip. Braking strong with reassuring pedal feel.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
Though not car-agile, an improvement over GM cousins. Steering direct, nicely weighted. Cornering lean modest with good grip. Braking strong with reassuring pedal feel.
Quietness
Along with Buick Rainier, 9-7X has more sound insulation than GM siblings. Saab has noticeably less wind and road noise than most SUVs, though one test vehicle exhibited excessive wind rush from the front pillars. Unlike the V8, the 6-cyl engine roars at full throttle.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6.6 |
Along with Buick Rainier, 9-7X has more sound insulation than GM siblings. Saab has noticeably less wind and road noise than most SUVs, though one test vehicle exhibited excessive wind rush from the front pillars. Unlike the V8, the 6-cyl engine roars at full throttle.
Controls
Also an improvement over GM siblings. Controls are clear, handy, though adjusting low-mounted climate system demands a long look from road. Interior appointed with Saab-appropriate rich-looking materials, though some elements, including lower door panels, retain cheap plastic feel of GM cousins.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
Also an improvement over GM siblings. Controls are clear, handy, though adjusting low-mounted climate system demands a long look from road. Interior appointed with Saab-appropriate rich-looking materials, though some elements, including lower door panels, retain cheap plastic feel of GM cousins.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Fine head, leg room. Seat comfort OK, but firmer cushions would give better support. Headrests, thick roof pillars interfere with some over-the-shoulder and aft sightlines. Modest step-in height. Available power-adjustable pedals may be helpful to shorter drivers.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7.5 |
Fine head, leg room. Seat comfort OK, but firmer cushions would give better support. Headrests, thick roof pillars interfere with some over-the-shoulder and aft sightlines. Modest step-in height. Available power-adjustable pedals may be helpful to shorter drivers.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Good head and knee room, plus adequate under-seat foot space despite uneven floorboard. Split bench seat comfortable, fairly supportive, but disappointingly lacks the supportive contour found in Saab's 9-3 and 9-5 cars.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Good head and knee room, plus adequate under-seat foot space despite uneven floorboard. Split bench seat comfortable, fairly supportive, but disappointingly lacks the supportive contour found in Saab's 9-3 and 9-5 cars.
Cargo Room
OK with rear seatback in place, generous with it folded. Seatback split 60/40, folds easily with help from automatic-folding headrests. Bright metal sill guards and cargo tie-downs look and feel classy. Nice array of small-item storage space in cabin.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7.9 |
OK with rear seatback in place, generous with it folded. Seatback split 60/40, folds easily with help from automatic-folding headrests. Bright metal sill guards and cargo tie-downs look and feel classy. Nice array of small-item storage space in cabin.
Value within Class
Saab's first SUV makes the most of its shared architecture. The 9-7X delivers better driving dynamics and interior design than the General Motors SUVs on which it's based. However, compared with the class-leading Acura MDX, Lexus RX, and Volvo XC90, the Saab falls short in drivetrain refinement and cabin materials. Still, Saab's nonconformist attitude may appeal to buyers seeking an SUV that doesn't look like the one in their neighbor's garage.
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 5 | 5.8 |
Saab's first SUV makes the most of its shared architecture. The 9-7X delivers better driving dynamics and interior design than the General Motors SUVs on which it's based. However, compared with the class-leading Acura MDX, Lexus RX, and Volvo XC90, the Saab falls short in drivetrain refinement and cabin materials. Still, Saab's nonconformist attitude may appeal to buyers seeking an SUV that doesn't look like the one in their neighbor's garage.
Total Score
| Base 6-cyl | Base V8 | Class Average |
| 59 | 61 | 61.5 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 52 | |
| Average Score | 61 | |
| High Score | 73 |
2006 Saab 9-7X Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 07/11/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
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| Base 6-cylinder 4-door wagon | $38,520 | $35,438 | $720 |
|
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| Base V8 4-door wagon | $40,520 | $37,278 | $720 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base 6-cylinder
Powertrain
4.2-liter 6-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, limited-slip rear differential.
Safety
Dual front airbags, curtain side airbags w/rollover deployment, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system w/rollover sensors, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone climate controls, OnStar assistance system w/one year service, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated 8-way power front bucket seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, heated power mirrors w/turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio (requires monthly fee after 3rd month), rear radio controls, digital clock, tachometer, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, visor mirrors, cargo cover, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, fog lights, roof rails, trailer-harness wiring.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Load-leveling suspension, full-size spare tire, 255/55R18 tires, alloy wheels.
Base V8 adds to base 6-cylinder:
Powertrain
5.3-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power-adjustable pedals.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Xenon headlights w/washers.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Prestige Pkg.
|
||
|
Base 6-cylinder
|
$800
|
$696
|
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Power-adjustable pedals, xenon headlights w/washers.
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
|
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Base 6-cylinder, Base V8
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$1,995
|
$1,736
|
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DVD entertainment system
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Base 6-cylinder, Base V8
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$1,300
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$1,131
|
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2006 Saab 9-7X Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Saab 9-7X 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 113.0 |
| Overall Length, in. | 193.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 75.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 68.5 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4770 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 80.1 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 22.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.2 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.1 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I6 | ohv V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 4.2 /256 | 5.3 /325 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 291 @ 6000 | 300 @ 5200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 277 @ 3600 | 330 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 4-speed automatic | 15/21 | 15/20 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Saab 9-7X 4-door wagon |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/Unlimited | 7/unlimited on 9-3 sport sedan and convertible. |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 3/36,000 | 2/24,000 on 9-2x. |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: N/A Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 15.02 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Ed Piotrowski 9-7X is by far the best of the Chevy TrailBlazer/GMC Envoy/Buick Rainier/Isuzu Ascender conglomerate. But even Saab's tweaks can't hide the dated feel of the basic platform. This SUV deserves consideration, but don't sign a check without first scouting the competition. Jack Stewart Not a Saab, but a good Trailblazer. Rick Cotta Though arguably the nicest of the Trailblazer derivatives, a console ignition switch does not a Saab make. With its truck-based platform and the somewhat ponderous feel it creates, the 9-7X seems out of character for the brand. And even with its upscale features, it's difficult to justify base prices that far outpace those of the similar Buick Rainier, and also exceed those of top rivals. |
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Also in the 2006 Saab 9-7X Review:
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