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SAAB 9-3 TURBO X SPORTCOMBI

Published 1:24 pm Friday, October 10, 2008

Sometimes the past leads you back to the future. The Saab 9-3 Turbo X SportCombi is Exhibit A.

Way back in 1978, Saab introduced its first-ever turbocharged model, the 9-3 CombiCoupe hatchback, starting a trend that was widely copied by many other manufacturers. Now, some 30 years later, the limited-edition Turbo X evokes the appeal of its predecessor, while introducing Saab’s innovative XWD all-wheel-drive technology.

One of my co-workers, a Cougar and a Saab aficionado, with enough “experience” (that’s polite talk for “old”) commented that as far as the exterior lines go, this new 9-3 is “almost too similar” to the original.

The Turbo X is the first car in the world to incorporate the new XWD technology, which represents a significant upgrade from conventional all-wheel drive.

In layman’s terms, there are many AWD systems that split the delivery of power between the front and rear wheels. Saab’s all-new, cross-wheel drive system takes this one step further, utilizing an electronic limited slip differential that can also split the power between the rear wheels.

This new technology virtually eliminates under- and over-steer and raises the threshold where electronic stability controls step in with braking and throttle interventions, giving the driver more active involvement in hard driving situations.

Simply put, this driver’s car just became more driver friendly. And it’s a lead pipe cinch to become a favorite of active-minded Northwesterners who brave the elements on a routine basis not only for getting to work, but also for leisure time activities, without sacrificing comfort, safety and utility.

The Turbo X is available as a four-door sedan Sport model and my tester’s five-door SportCombi style. Only 600 units total are expected to be delivered to the United States this year – all painted metallic jet black with titanium-colored accents.

At the heart of the Saab Turbo X beats a powerhouse 2.8-liter V6 turbo engine that generates 280 horsepower. It’s coupled with a six-speed manual transmission. The result is a responsive, high-torque wunderkind that delivers all of the performance and handling characteristics sought by driving enthusiasts.

Frankly, I don’t count myself in this snobby group led by my colleague Ms. “I’m better than you” Lowry. But I must confess, I was seduced by the Turbo X’s worldly charms. I was more wowed by the practicality this Swedish bombshell brings to the table.

The Turbo X seats four in supreme comfort that includes heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, audio system with six-disc CD changer and Bose surround sound speakers, XM satellite radio, cruise control, power and heated outside mirrors, and carbon fiber interior accents — to name but a few.

And, in a world of high-priced gas, 24 miles per gallon down the highway for a turbocharged engine is not all bad.

Then there’s the rear hatchback. They may not be considered stylish by the snobs, but they certainly are family friendly and great for toting four golf bags to The Home

Course near Lacey to participate in the highly anticipated Club Championship.

Engineered to be aerodynamic, the Turbo X sports 18-inch alloy wheels, a deeper lip spoiler and integrated air intake in the front, and a re-profiled fascia and rear spoiler that extends the line of the trunk deck at the back.

Owners are also indulged with a personalized greeting when they switch on the ignition. A unique “all systems go” message flashes in the main instrument display.

The owner’s name, with the edition number of the car, can also be programmed for display by the supplying dealer.