2008 Saab 9-3 Sedan
The X Factor
With all-wheel drive and a strong turbocharged engine, the Saab Turbo X is the most performance-oriented version of the 9-3 sedan.
by Shane Kite,
ForbesAutos.com
The Turbo X is a limited-edition performance car commemorating three decades of turbo heritage at
Saab. It is an upgraded version of the 9-3 sedan.
The debut comes 30 years after Saab revealed its first turbocharged model in Frankfurt, the 99. Inspired by the classic Saab 99 and 900 models, the Turbo X features a 2.8-liter V6 turbo engine that with 280 horsepower. It propels the car from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds.
Suspension and chassis settings are tweaked for performance. The Turbo X also comes with Saab's new active all-wheel-drive system, called XWD, designed to improve handling and stability. XWD is available on standard 9-3 sedan as well. The Turbo X benefits from an electronically controlled limited-slip differential for the rear wheels that transfers up to 40 percent of torque to whichever wheel has more grip.
Check back for a full review.
Published on 2008-05-14