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| On the road 9-7 X - Saab's first SUV lands in Europe Marketed in the United States since 2004, this big luxury 4x4 is now arriving in Europe and presents itself as a rival of the Volvo XC90 and Jeep Grand Cherokee.  Let's say it right away: the new Saab 9-7X, initially designed for the American market, is in fact a Chevrolet TrailBlazer with a European-style makeover, recognisable by its radiator grille, typical of the Swedish marque. With its generous size (4.91 m long, 24 cm more than a BMW X5!), sporty chassis and comfortable "Scandinavian-style" passenger compartment, this 4x4 presents itself as Saab's interpretation of the SUV: a cockpit-style interior, low driving position, firm suspension, thick stabiliser bar, minimal roll rate...  As for engines, you will have the choice between a 4.2-litre V6 (290 hp) and a 5.3-litre V8 (300 hp), which accelerates from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 8 seconds. Equipped with DOD fuel-saving technology, this beast boasts relatively reasonable average combined fuel consumption, in the region of 14 l/100 km. Despite the specific characteristics of the European market, Saab has no plans for a diesel engine at the moment. However, a top-of-the-range LPG version will be available. It will offer fuel economy comparable to that of a diesel and will, in France, have the advantage of being exempt from TVTS tax (a tax on company cars), therefore costing around 4,500 euros (approximately £3,000) less, not forgetting the free "carte grise" car registration document in certain regions). The former Swedish manufacturer, taken over by General Motors, is cautiously banking on 50 registrations this year, an elitist production on a par with the base price (not yet officially announced, it is true) of 54,000 euros (around £37,000). The 9-7X will be exported by IFS (International Fleet Service), a Californian company and exclusive exporter of certain GM group products (such as the famous Hummer). Let's note that the SUV will be modified to comply with European standards as soon as it arrives in Rotterdam (a technical and administrative procedure which can take between 2 and 3 months). Website: www.saab.com/ Photographies © Saab  | |||||||||
