Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept
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The 9-4X Concept is a compact crossover SUV that takes several styling cues from Saab's 9-3 lineup. The SUV, however, doesn't share any of its basic underskin design with the 9-3 or any other GM vehicle. The 9-4X's other "hook" is its engine. Though its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is similar to what Saab offers in the 9-3, "BioPower" is what separates it. The engine is designed to offer optimum performance while running on the E85 ethanol/gasoline mix, rather than conventional gasoline. Taking advantage of E85's higher octane rating allows the engine to produce 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque on the corn juice. On refined crude oil, output drops to 245 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel paddles is standard, as is Saab's new XWD "cross wheel drive" all-wheel drive system. Saab says the 9-4X can run from 0-60 mph in 7.9 seconds.
Pricing and availability weren't announced at the show. Count on the 9-4X getting the green light for production, though, as competition in the premium compact SUV segment increases. It should be priced in the heart of the segment, which means the neighborhood of $35,000. The BioPower engine is currently available on cars that Saab sells in its Swedish home market. Whether the technology will make it to the 9-4X and other Saabs sold in North America remains to be seen.