Saab 9-4X for 2011
|
New Saab 9-4X for late 2011 release
in major global markets, including Australia.
The Saab 9-4X will feature a 2.8 litre
turbo-charged V6 with 224 kW and 400 Nm.
The Saab 9-4X will debut at the 2010
Los Angeles Motor Show, Los Angeles, California, USA,
(Friday 19th November to Sunday 28th November, 2010).
|
|
|
Home >
News >
Saab
19th October, 2010
- Saab enters growing cross-over segment
- Progressive Scandinavian design inspired by Aero X concept
- Car-like driving dynamics challenge best-in-class performance
- Advanced Saab XWD matched with Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis
- Spacious cabin, driver-focused cockpit and ample storage
- 2.8 litre V6 turbo engine (224 kW and 400 Nm)
- Flexible cargo management system
The new 9-4X brings unique Saab design and engineering values to the growing mid-size cross-over
segment. With distinctive Scandinavian looks, it also offers car-like handling and ride
characteristics that challenge class benchmarks.
Making its world premiere at next month’s Los Angeles Motor Show, the 9-4X expands Saab’s product
portfolio to three car lines and will provide a fresh, alternative choice for independently-minded
cross-over buyers. It is an important next-step in the Swedish brand’s renaissance as an independent
premium car manufacturer.
Sporty to drive, the Saab 9-4X is aligned in looks and size between the 9-3X and new 9-5 saloon.
Outside and inside, it communicates its Saab identity with clean, uncluttered design and signature
motifs, such as its wraparound-effect windshield, ice block lighting theme, driver-focused cockpit
and flexible cargo handling.
In true Saab tradition, the 9-4X delivers on its sporty 'persona'. It is configured around a
unique, purpose-designed cross-over body structure, which has been key to delivering its exceptional
handling and ride properties. Car-like driving dynamics are supported by Saab’s advanced
all-wheel-drive system, XWD, and DriveSense adaptive chassis control.
Under the bonnet nestles a compact and efficient V6 turbocharged engine. The 300 hp, 2.8-litre
twin-scroll turbocharging engine is matched to six-speed automatic transmissions under adaptive
electronic control.
“The 9-4X significantly broadens the appeal of the Saab brand,” says Saab Automobile CEO
Jan Åke Jonsson. “It gives us entry to the fast-growing cross-over segment with a vehicle that
reflects our brand values in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design and sporty,
responsible driving performance. The 9-4X is an exciting package and we’re confident it will appeal
to many existing Saab owners, as well as win new customers for the brand.”
The Saab 9-4X goes on sale in North America in May next year, with sales in Europe and other
global markets due to begin from August. UK sales start late in 2011.
Body sculpted by Saab
The 9-4X cuts a broad and powerful stance, with clean, uncluttered lines that echo Saab’s
Scandinavian design ethos. Its distinctive face, in common with the new 9-5 saloon, draws
inspiration from the award-winning Aero X concept car, with a deep, three-port grille and
‘ice-block’-effect lighting themes.
Disguised windshield and door pillars provide Saab’s signature wraparound-effect, the single
glasshouse graphic emphasising the brand’s traditional ‘cockpit’ look. Other exterior Saab
identifiers include the shaping of the headlamps, a ‘hockey stick’ waistline and strong C-pillars
complemented by a wraparound-effect rear screen.
The roofline is visually lowered and extended by a rear spoiler integrated in to the tailgate.
At the rear, the lighting carries forward a signature introduced by the new 9-5 saloon. An
‘ice-block’ bar lit by LEDs extends across the lower tailgate and wraps around the light units.
Twin rhomboid-shaped exhaust tailpipes are also neatly integrated into the lower bumper
moulding.
Overall, the 9-4X’s bodywork is noticeably free from unnecessary decoration or trim. A dark
protective appliqué is applied to the lower body, but there are no wheel-arch claddings or
protective body panels.
Cockpit-inspired cabin
The spacious cabin provides comfortable accommodation for up to five adults and is defined
by Saab’s signature driver-focused cockpit layout. The centre console, centre stack and main
instrument display are presented within a single form that sweeps up around the driver and is
finished with a fibre-effect carbon trim.
Other subtle references to Saab’s aviation heritage include a selectable, aircraft
attitude-style speed read-out, green illumination for the needles of the three main dials and
traditional Saab ‘joystick’ adjusters for the mesh-style air vents. The ignition – a start/stop
button – is, of course, located between the front seats in true Saab tradition, adjacent to the
shift lever.
Large, supportive seats include a standard eight-way electrical adjustment for the driver
and front passenger. Rear passengers enjoy particularly roomy accommodation as rear space is
not compromised by the presence of a third row of seats. They also benefit from an independent
three-way manual adjustment of the rake of each 60/40 fold seatback.
Ample onboard storage includes double-decked pockets in all doors, a two-tier front glovebox
and a deep bin in the centre console with 12-volt, USB and AUX connections. Rear passengers have
additional storage in the rear face of the centre console and the centre armrest.
Infotainment includes a 10-speaker Bose system with 5.1 surround sound and an eight-inch
touchscreen, hard disc-based navigation system includes a bird’s eye map view and 10 GB storage
for music files. Communication on the move is supported by an integrated Bluetooth hands-free
phone system, which functions via voice command and steering wheel controls, as well as via the
infotainment panel.
In the rear, passengers can select their own onboard audio/visual entertainment through an
optional dedicated unit in the back of the centre console. This has a video AUX input and two
eight-inch screens in the rear face of the front seatbacks.
Adaptable cargo carrying
The boot of the 9-4X is optimised for space and ease of use. The 60/40 split seatbacks fold
down in a single movement without having to move the seat cushions or remove the retractable
head restraints, providing a completely flat cargo deck.
The front section of the boot floor is hinged and can be opened via an aircraft-shaped handle
to reveal additional under floor storage. Floor space can be tailored as required by an optional,
U-shaped track with a telescopic cargo dividing rail, which can be moved to any position to keep
items in place.
For additional convenience the tailgate is available with a remotely controlled,
hydraulically powered operation. It can open fully, or to a lower programmable position if there
is restricted clearance overhead, such as in the garage.
On the move
The Saab 9-4X brings car-like handling and ride qualities to the cross-over segment. Extensive
development testing alongside competitor vehicles shows the 9-4X has a level of dynamic
performance – in ride refinement as well as handling - that challenges the very best in its
class.
Key to such excellent driving qualities is a unique body structure, purpose-designed for a
cross-over application and free from compromises through adapting an existing saloon or estate
format.
Advanced driving technologies include Saab XWD, the sophisticated all-wheel-drive system,
which infinitely varies drive torque between the front and rear axles. This pre-emptive,
lightweight and fast-acting system offers optimised grip in all conditions, dry or wet, smooth or
loose, on road or off-road. It is combined with an electronically-controlled rear limited-slip
differential (eLSD) which can transfer up to 50% of rear torque between the rear wheels,
diverting torque to the wheel with more grip.
Saab DriveSense offers an adaptive chassis function which uses real time damping control to
help the 9-4X react to how it is being driven and to changing road conditions. In addition to the
default ‘Intelligent’ setting, the driver can select ‘Comfort’ and ‘Sport’ modes. An ‘Eco’ mode,
activated via a separate button, also re-maps the throttle pedal and gearshifting patterns for
optimal fuel economy.
Other driving aids include variable effort steering, a function of Saab DriveSense, and
standard bi-xenon adaptive lighting, which provides better illumination of upcoming bends by
linking the direction of the headlamp beam to the steering angle.
Efficient power packs
The Saab 9-4X is offered with an efficient all-aluminium V6 engine with a six-speed automatic
transmission and Saab XWD. The light and compact, 24-valve engine feature variable valve timing
on both inlet and exhaust sides, and boasts a power rating typical of a larger displacement
engine.
The 2.8-litre turbo engine packs 224 kW (300 hp) and generates an impressive 400 Nm spread
of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. It delivers zero to 60 km/h acceleration in 8.3 seconds.
Fuel consumption figures are still being finalised and will be published closer to launch.
Leading safety performance
Excellent safety complements strong performance, and the 9-4X benefits from more than 50
years of Saab experience in working with occupant protection. Saab crash testing and computer
simulations are based on what happens in real collisions, on real roads. Many in-house tests
developed by Saab are over and above those legally required or carried out by consumer test
organisations.
The success of Saab’s work is reflected in surveys of real-life collisions by the US
Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) and the Swedish Folksam insurance company, where Saab cars
have consistently scored well, several times being ranked best in their segment. All current
Saab models are maximum 5-star performers in EuroNCAP crash safety tests.
New Saab 9-4X: Product Highlights and Features
Car-like Driving Fun and Ride Comfort
- Purpose-designed cross-over body structure delivers car-like driving quality
- Adaptive chassis technology: Saab XWD and Saab DriveSense
- Advanced infotainment: hard disc storage, rear seat entertainment
- Safety systems leverage more than 50 years of Saab real-life crash safety experience
The Saab 9-4X’s advanced chassis offers car-like handling characteristics, with sporty and
responsive driving qualities that challenge the best in its class.
Sophisticated technologies include Saab’s DriveSense adaptive chassis, with real-time damping
control, and Saab XWD, a cutting edge all wheel-drive system with an electronically-controlled
rear limited-slip differential (eLSD).
Comfort and convenience features include a start/stop button, keyless entry and exit, a powered
tailgate, adaptable cargo stowage, tri-zone air conditioning and rear seat entertainment.
Satellite-navigation with an 8-inch touchscreen, surround sound system and hard disc music storage
are among the infotainment options.
Behind The Wheel
The Saab 9-4X has been developed to deliver a nimble, responsive driving experience that belies
its size and height. Car-like and fun to drive, it is equally at ease on smooth roads or loose,
slippery surfaces.
It benefits from a unique body structure, specifically designed for a cross-over application.
This has enabled engineers to establish key vehicle dimensions - such as wide front and rear
tracks (1,622 and 1,623 mm respectively) and the suspension geometry – without being compromised
by adapting an existing saloon or estate format. While offering the security of a raised, ‘command’
driving position and a ground clearance of 200 mm, the 9-4X makes no comprises in its dynamic
performance.
Extensive testing alongside competitor vehicles validated the 9-4X’s qualities for ride
refinement, noise suppression and handling. In a variety of test configurations, its performance
challenged the very best in class.
A stiff body structure, with a natural resonant frequency of 31 Hz, is key to ensuring refined
ride characteristics and good suppression of noise, vibration and harshness, as well providing a
solid foundation for the location of suspension mountings.
Front suspension is by McPherson struts with hydraulic lower A-arm ride bushings and a
hollow-section anti-roll bar. An independent, linked H-arm layout is used at the rear. This
sophisticated system, with isolated sub-frame mountings, enhances ride comfort, reduces vibration
entering the cabin and improves roadholding. Shear bushings in the damper mountings to the body
further dissipate vibrations from the road and improve noise isolation.
To deliver an enhanced ride quality, unsprung weight has been minimised by the use of
weight-saving aluminium for all brake callipers, the front wheel hubs, A-arms, steering knuckles
and rear suspension links. The powerful braking system uses 345 mm front and 315 mm rear discs,
both ventilated. ESP is fitted as standard.
“This is a truly rewarding car to drive,” says Peter Dörrich, Saab 9-4X Vehicle Chief
Engineer, who led the development team. “We are convinced it sets new standards in this segment
for good handling and ride qualities. We can’t wait for the public and media to start driving
it.”
Advanced driving technologies build on the capabilities of the 9-4X’s chassis. Chief among
these are:
Saab XWD with eLSD
This advanced all-wheel-drive system offers a more rewarding driving experience and greater
control in all conditions, dry or wet, on and off-road.
Already successfully launched in the Saab 9-3 and 9-5, this pre-emptive, active system has been
integrated and optimised by Saab chassis engineers. It uses a multi-plate Haldex clutch unit which
infinitely varies the delivery of drive torque between the front and rear axles. Careful
programming enables the application of rear drive to balance oversteer and understeer
characteristics, as well as ensuring optimal grip in loose or slippery conditions. The ESP system
is also tuned together with XWD to optimise the chassis’s sporty potential without reducing safety
margins.
An electronically-controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD) can transfer up to 50% of rear
torque between the rear wheels, diverting torque to the wheel with more grip. Under hard cornering
on the open road, or when completing a high speed manoeuvre, the brief application of more or less
torque to either wheel also helps the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the
front wheels. In loose or slippery conditions, traction is also further improved.
Saab XWD with the eLSD is fitted as standard.
Saab DriveSense
This adaptive system includes real time damping control with a range of adjustments that helps
the vehicle adapt to the way it is being driven. In addition to the default ‘Intelligent’ mode, two
further settings, ‘Sport’ and ‘Comfort’, can be selected via a rotary knob next to the gear
shift.
In real time, ‘Intelligent’ mode adjusts the car’s handling characteristics in response to
driving style. It continually varies the stiffness rates of the electronically-controlled dampers,
the action of the electronic throttle and the degree of power steering assistance. For example, when
the car is being driven in a sporty style, the action of the dampers is automatically stiffened to
improve body control and roadholding; the throttle pedal movement is shortened for a faster response
and steering assistance is reduced for a more direct feel. At reduced speeds, the dampers are
softened for greater ride comfort, the action of the throttle pedal becomes less aggressive and the
steering feels lighter.
The ‘Sport’ setting introduces a firmer range of adjustment for the dampers, offering even greater
body control. In addition to sharpening the accelerator pedal response and enhancing steering feel,
‘Sport’ mode also raises the gear shifting points of the automatic transmission and sends more drive
torque to the rear wheels.
By contrast, ‘Comfort’ mode, optimises ride refinement by enabling a softer range of adjustment
for the dampers and a smoother throttle pedal action. It provides enhanced compliance over rough
road surfaces.
‘Eco’ mode is activated via a separate button, and focuses on optimising fuel economy including
the appropriate management of gear shifting patterns and re-mapping of the throttle pedal action.
Variable Effort Steering (VES)
When manoeuvring, parking or driving at low speeds, VES increases the level of power assistance
in order to reduce steering effort. At higher speeds, assistance is automatically reduced to ensure
a high degree of steering ‘feel‘ for the driver.
VES uses an electro-magnetic motor on the steering rack, controlled by a coil, to boost or reduce
the level of hydraulic assistance. VES also adapts to the speed at which the steering wheel is being
turned, providing progressively increased assistance the faster the wheel is rotated.
Comfort, Convenience and Safety
Occupants of the Saab 9-4X benefit from state-of-the-art features that enhance the travel
experience. These are focused on ease-of-use and making the cabin of the 9-4X an enjoyable and safer
place to be. They include:
Start/Stop button with keyless entry/exit
Standard throughout the range, a start/stop button replaces the conventional ignition switch. In
Saab tradition, it is located between the seats next to the gear shift. The engine control unit
detects and authenticates a coded signal from driver’s fob and the engine can be started or stopped
by simply pressing the start/stop button.
For even greater convenience, a keyless entry/exit system is also offered, which allows the car
to be automatically unlocked when the door handle is pulled while the fob is still in the driver’s
pocket or handbag. The car can also be locked when the driver leaves it by simply touching the lock
area of the door handle. This ease-of-use feature removes the need to press the unlock/lock buttons
on a standard fob.
Advanced infotainment systems
The extensive infotainment choice offers a Bose system with true 5.1 surround sound reproduction.
The 8-inch touchscreen navigation system includes a bird’s eye map view and hard disc drive storage
for map data and music.
Audio selection is versatile. In addition to the AM/FM and DAB radio, the driver can play music
directly from a CD, insert an iPod, MP3 player or memory stick into the standard USB socket, or even
store 10 GB of favorite tracks on a built-in hard drive – all with full control via the faceplate
and steering wheel. The USB socket is located conveniently alongside an AUX input and 12V power
outlet in the centre console. The USB ‘wires’ the device to the car and offers instant control
through the audio system, the in-car display showing the song title, artist and album information.
Communication on the move is supported by an integrated Bluetooth hands-free phone system, which
functions via voice command and steering wheel controls, as well as the infotainment faceplate.
In the rear, passengers can enjoy their own on board entertainment through a dedicated unit in
the back of the centre console and two 8-inch screens which fold out, laptop style, from the front
seatbacks. Passengers can select an alternative audio source to that being played in the front,
watch a DVD or enjoy entertainment from a stand-alone player, such as a games console or digital
camera, connected to the video AUX input. Sound is provided by wireless headphones.
Rear-view camera
A small lens is discreetly mounted in the tailgate to provide enhanced rearward vision when
reversing. A 3.5-inch image is shown in the interior rear-view mirror, or the main display screen
with satellite navigation.
Driving and crash safety
All occupants in the 9-4X benefit from Saab’s successful real-life safety philosophy. Crash
testing and computer simulations are based on what happens in real collisions on real roads, using
the findings of a database covering more than 6,100 real-life accidents involving Saab cars on
Swedish roads over the last 50 years. Saab safety engineers are always aware that their ultimate
goal is protecting real people, not only dummies in laboratory crash tests.
According to Saab’s real-life safety strategy, the structural design of the car, and the operation
of its safety systems, is evaluated through a large number of in-house crash tests which are
additional to those legally required or carried out by consumer test organisations.
The success of this work is reflected in surveys of real-life collisions by the US Highway Loss
Data Institute (HLDI) and the Swedish Folksam insurance company, where Saab cars have consistently
scored well, several times being ranked best in their segment. All Saab models are maximum 5-star
performers in EuroNCAP crash safety ratings.
In addition to the full complement of occupant safety systems installed in all Saab cars, the
9-4X includes third generation Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR 3) as standard for the front seats,
together with pre-tensioning and load-limiting for the outer rear seatbelts.
Driving, or active safety – the ability to avoid becoming involved in an accident - is also
improved by bi-xenon adaptive lighting. This powerful system improves visibility for the driver and
reduces night driving stress. At all speeds, the headlamps provide better illumination of upcoming
bends by swiveling up to 15°, to the right or left according to the steering angle.
At speeds below 50 km/h, Town Light provides a wider, flatter beam so that pedestrians or
potential hazards at the roadside can be seen more easily. At speeds above 100 km/h, Motorway Light
is engaged, which increases the depth of the light beam from 130 to 170 metres. The cone is shaped
so that on-coming drivers are not affected.
ESP is fitted as standard across the range and the rear brake lights flash under heavy braking to
warn following drivers.
New Saab 9-4X: Exterior and Interior Design
Crossing Over with Progressive Saab Design
- Carries forward signature Saab design cues
- Clean exterior styling follows Scandinavian tradition
- Spacious cabin with driver-focused cockpit /li>
- Flexible cargo management system
Strong, crisply sculpted and unmistakably Saab: the 9-4X cuts a 'muscular' stance that defines its
cross-over character. It takes Saab forward into a new market segment, sharing signature Saab styling
cues from the new Saab 9-5 saloon.
Outside and inside, it gives fresh expression to a Saab design heritage drawn from aeronautical
and Scandinavian roots. The 9-4X takes Saab’s design language into a new vehicle class, emphasising a
feeling of strength and solidity that goes to the heart of the Saab brand.
Clean exterior design
The 'athletic' 9-4X brings Saab design values to the cross-over segment of the first time. Like its
9-5 peer, the distinctive frontal styling of the 9-4X is inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept
car, which introduced a new deep, three-hole grille treatment and ‘ice-block’-effect lighting themes
in a blue-green hue.
Other Saab brand identifiers - the wraparound-effect windshield, header rail, the shape of the
headlamps, a wraparound-effect rear screen and hockey stick waistline – are now integrated within a
raised, cross-over body design. The result is a vehicle with clean, uncluttered lines that reflect the
simplicity of Scandinavian design principles.
The blacked-out windshield and door pillars help to provide a single glasshouse graphic, emphasising
that typical Saab ‘cockpit’ look. In the style of the new 9-5, the door mirror casings are also black,
instead of body-colored, so that the visual impact of the window graphic is not interrupted.
Like the new 9-5 saloon, the ‘ice block’ headlamp units include a curving, signature light tube
which illuminates to give the car a distinctive identity day and night. Indicator repeaters in the
front bumpers also adopt the blue-green ‘ice block’ theme.
Subtle sculpting of the wheel-arches, and a side crease that underlines the hockey stick beltline,
also give a taut look to the proportions of a mid-size cross-over. In keeping with Scandinavian design
values, the 9-4X’s bodywork is free from unnecessary trim. While a dark protective appliqué is coated
on the lower body, the 9-4X’s svelte lines are not sullied by additions such as wheel-arch cladding or
protective body panels.
The roofline is visually lowered and stretched by a deep spoiler integrated into the top of the
tailgate. The rear screen appears to wraparound the rear quarters of the car, helping to form a strong
‘C’-pillar shape, another Saab signature feature.
The rear lighting follows the same distinctive theme seen on the new Saab 9-5 saloon. The signature
‘ice-block’ light bar stretches across the lower tailgate, wrapping around the rear light units. It
gives the rear of the 9-4X a distinctive night and day identity.
For easy loading, the tailgate opens flush with the top of the rear bumper moulding, which is
finished with a black, scratch-resistant insert. The rear bumper also comes with a detachable towbar,
which preserves its good looks when a towbar is not required. With both engines, twin rhomboid-shaped
exhaust tailpipes are neatly integrated into the lower bumper moulding.
Cockpit-inspired cabin
The 9-4X’s spacious cabin provides comfortable accommodation for up to five adults and is
distinguished by its signature Saab driver-focused cockpit. The centre console, centre stack and
main instrument displays are all combined within a single form that arcs around the driver with a
fibre-effect carbon finish.
Three main instrument dials are housed in chrome-edged tubes. The central speedometer includes
a selectable, rolling ‘aircraft attitude’ meter as a speed read-out, a subtle reference to Saab’s
aviation heritage. The needles of the dials and main display screen in centre stack are all
illuminated in signature Saab green. The aircraft-like 'Night Panel' button, another unique Saab
feature, allows the driver to minimise distraction during night driving by switching off all the
main instrument and infotainment illumination, except the speedometer.
Other unique Saab features include mesh-style air vents with ‘joystick’ adjusters and the
car’s ignition – now a start/stop button – located between the front seats adjacent to the shift
lever. Controls associated with the movement of the vehicle – such as the electric park brake
button and DriveSense adaptive ride selector – are logically located in the same area.
The presentation of the infotainment and climate controls in the centre stack below the colour
display screen follows the same layout as seen in the new 9-5 saloon. Small channels in the
fascia link the main rotary controls and resemble the shape of Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man,
a hint at the combination of human design and scientific precision used in the layout of the
cabin. It is part of the logical, zonal groupings used for the location of the car’s interior,
chassis and lighting controls.
Ample cabin storage is a key requirement for a leisure-orientated vehicle. In addition to a
large, two-tier, cooled glovebox, Saab designers have optimised space by providing double-decked
storage pockets in all doors, front and rear. The centre console also includes storage within the
lift-top adjustable armrest, as well as dual depth adjustable twin cupholders and a deep storage
bin with a 12-volt power outlet and USB and AUX sockets for mobile devices. Rear passengers have
additional storage in the rear face of the centre console and in the centre armrest with twin
cupholders.
Large, supportive seats include an eight-way electrical adjustment for both driver and front
passenger.
Rear passengers can also adjust their seating position. Each of the split seatbacks features a
choice of three rake positions, which are engaged by a lever in the outboard edge of the
seatback.
Adaptable cargo carrying
The boot of the Saab 9-4X is optimised for space and ease of use. Generously proportioned,
with minimal intrusions in the side walls, it offers a load capacity of 485 litres with the
rear seatbacks up.
The 60/40 split seatbacks are designed to fold down in a single movement, without having to
move the seat cushions or remove the retractable head restraints. As the seatbacks are folded
down, the cushions slide forward to enable a completely flat cargo deck.
|
|
|
Self-Catering Holiday
Accommodation in
Denmark, WA
..... more
|
|
|
The front section of the boot floor is hinged and can be raised via an aircraft-shaped handle
to reveal additional under-floor storage for smaller items when a tyre repair kit is fitted
instead of a spare wheel. The raised floor can also be locked in a vertical position and is
fitted with hooks, allowing shopping bags to be organised in a practical way.
A detachable, retracting cargo cover is also fitted as standard. It pulls out from the top of
the seatbacks to conceal stowed items and features a convenient second movement, which allows
both edges to slide up channels on the inside of the D-pillars. This opens up the cargo deck for
easy access, without any need to fully retract the cover, or reach inside again to pull it back
in position.
The boot floor space can be tailored as required. The U-shaped track accommodates an
adaptable, telescopic cargo dividing rail which can be moved to any position. The concept,
already introduced on the new 9-5 saloon provides a quick and flexible storage solution, keeping
a wide range of different-sized items in place.
For additional convenience, the tailgate features a remotely controlled, hydraulically
powered operation. It can be opened, programmed and closed via a rotary switch on the inside of
the driver’s door, the key fob or controls on the tailgate itself. The programmable mode raises
it to a set lower position if there is restricted clearance overhead.
Cabin Decor and Equipment
The upper surfaces of the cabin’s front fascia and door panels are presented in a grained jet
black finish with contrasting edge stitching.
The cabin features a choice of dark titanium or jet black for the centre armrest, lower door
panels and sports seats with under-thigh extensions, which are upholstered in perforated leather.
Contrasting stitching is applied to the flat-bottomed sports steering wheel, gearshift and the
edge of the instrument panel. The cabin is further enhanced by ambient lighting, and a
carbon-fibre look for the instrument panel and door handles.
Extensive9-4X standard equipment includes:
Bi-xenon adaptive headlights with cleaning, automatic levelling
Fog lamps
Electrically-powered windows and door mirrors
Cruise control
Dual zone climate control
Keyless entry and ignition with start and stop button
Colour centre console display
Steering wheel with audio/phone controls
Electric parking brake
Night Panel
Rear centre head restraint, retracting
Roof bars, matt aluminium finish
Rear cargo cover
20-inch turbine alloy wheels
Sentronic steering wheel controls for automatic transmission
DriveSense adaptive chassis including variable effort steering
Parking assistance front and rear
Perforated leather seats
Eight-way powered driver/passenger seat adjustment with lumbar support and thigh extension
Interior ambient lighting
Rain sensing wipers
Saab Infotainment Navigation
BOSE sound system
Power tailgate
Auto dimming exterior and rear view mirrors
Rear view camera
New Saab 9-4X: Powertrain
Compact V6 Engine Delivers High Efficiency
- Compact six cylinder, 224 kW and 400 Nm 2.8 V6 turbo
- Adaptive, six-speed automatic transmission
The Saab 9-4X is powered by a compact six-cylinder engine, featuring advanced technologies
that deliver power ratings typical of larger displacement engines, but with better fuel
economy and lower emissions.
The turbocharged, 2.8-litre V6 with 224 kW – as used in the new 9-5 saloon – is
transversely-mounted and matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with Saab XWD.
The engine features electronic management, electronic throttle control, direct ignition and
four valves per cylinder operated by overhead, maintenance-free, chain-driven camshafts.
Variable valve timing, on both inlet and exhaust sides, allows the opening and closing of the
valves to be adjusted according to engine speed and load. This enables a broader spread of
torque, higher maximum power and improved fuel consumption, as well as better emissions
control.
To give minimal piston friction and wear characteristics, while also benefiting fuel and
oil consumption, the cylinder walls of the engines are laser-etched for an ultra smooth
finish. Under-skirt piston oil cooling and sodium-filled exhaust valves are further
efficiency measures.
A torque-based engine management strategy calculates an optimal throttle position, cam
phasing, ignition timing and turbo charge pressure for all engine loads and speeds.
2.8 V6 Turbo
This all-aluminium engine has a classic 60° angle between the cylinder banks to give
optimum balance for vibration-free running. It generates 224 kW (300 hp) at 5,500 rpm and an
impressive 400 Nm spread of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm.
On the road, it delivers giving zero to 60 km/h (62 mph) acceleration in 8.3 seconds. Like
all turbocharged engine, it offers performance typical of larger engine, while delivering
better fuel economy when boost is not required.
The single, twin-scroll turbocharger is mounted centrally above the transmission and fed
by both banks of cylinders. The use of two inlet tracts, one for each cylinder bank,
separates the exhaust gas pulses, improving gas flow, reducing energy losses and raising
turbocharger efficiency. The turbo is water-cooled and uses air-to-air intercooling to
increase intake charge density.
A strong, forged-steel crankshaft runs in four main bearings and the steel connecting
rods are sinter forged for extra strength and durability. The polymer-coated, aluminium
pistons and the floating wrist-pins are cooled and further lubricated by triple
under-skirt oil jets.
The exhaust manifolds are double-skinned with hydroformed stainless steel liners to
improve cold start emissions by minimising heat absorption to the manifold. Air injection
into each exhaust manifold for up to 30 seconds after a cold start also helps the central
pre-catalyst, positioned upstream of the main catalytic converter, achieve 'light off',
its effective working temperature, as early as possible.
For smooth and quiet running, the cast aluminium oil pan is stiffened and bolted to the
transmission bell housing, as well as the engine block, eliminating points of vibration. The
camshaft covers are fully isolated and made from composite material to provide an effective
noise barrier.
The six-speed automatic transmission includes an integrated electronic control module,
which eliminates the need for any external wiring. It features an adaptive shifting logic,
while adding manual gear selection via steering wheel controls.
Fuel consumption figures are still being finalised and will be published closer to
launch.
New Saab 9-4X: Technical Overview
|
Engine
2,792 cc. 6 cylinders,V6
Aluminium cylinder heads and block DOHC, 24-valve
VVT (inlet and exhaust)
Twin-scroll turbocharger
Intercooled
Bosch Motronic ME9.6
Transversely-mounted
Suspension
Front:
MacPherson strut
Aluminum A-arm
Hydraulic dampers
Anti-roll bar
Hydraulic ride bushings
Rear:
Independent, linked H-arm
Coil springs. Gas charged dampers
Anti-roll bar (hollow)
Transmission
6-speed automatic
Steering wheel controls
Steering
Rack and pinion
Variable Effort Steering
Turning circle (curb-to-curb):11.9 m.
Turns lock-to-lock: 2.84 |
Wheels, Tyres
20” x 8" aluminium, 235/55
Brakes
Dual circuit, vacuum booster
ABS, TCS, ESP®
Discs, Callipers (f/r, mm):
345 x 30, ventilated
Aluminium dual piston
315 x 23, ventilated
Aluminium single piston
Weights
Curb (kg): 2,085 – 2,135
Max. towing weight: 2,000 kg
Weight distribution (%, f/r): 57/43
Capacities
Load capacity (litres):
2nd seat row up: 485
Cooling system (litres):
12.8 (2.8 turboV6)
Engine oil (litres):
6.0 (2.8 turbo V6)
Fuel tank (litres):
80
Drag co-efficient
0.38 |
Performance
| ENGINE VARIANT |
2.8 turbo V6 |
| Availability |
9-4X Aero |
Max. ouput (hp/kW)
Rpm |
300/221
5,500 |
Max torque (Nm / lb-ft)
Rpm |
400/295
2,000 - 5,000 |
| Bore/Stroke (mm) |
89.0 x 74.8 |
| Compression Ratio |
9.5:1 |
| PERFORMANCE |
|
| 0-100 km/h (s) |
8.3 |
| Top speed (km/h) |
230 |
| FUEL CONSUMPTION
(l/100 km) |
|
| Combined |
tba |
| Extra-urban |
tba |
| Urban |
tba |
| CO2 (g/km) |
tba |
tba = to be announced. Fuel consumption and CO2 data have not yet been finalised
| 
