Comments

• David Wishart said:
  

  Name.
  Location: San Francisco

  I currently drive….2000 9-3 Coupé and have owned 2 Saabs prior (with a time out Acura Integra).

  Comments on the current Saab lineup:
  Like the 9-3 SC but I want a true 5-door or 3-door. The convertible is too heavy and the Kombi is too much a wagon for me. More efficient engine options in the US. The 9-5 is a solid all-round performer and generally attractive. If there was a 5-door with a diesel option I’d be interested. 9-2x needs more development but I like the size. It could be like the 99 if done right. 9-7x: I understand why it’s here but not intelligent enough for me. Re-define what makes a truck good. 300hp and heavy weight do not impress.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist) :
  9-6x: Not my demographic. I don’t want an off-road 4wd drive anything. I want a simple, smartly-designed, lightweight 3 or 5-door hatchback with build quality equal to the offerings at BMW. Make cars that impresses me with overall balance and design efficiency, not 0-60 times, road-holding and GPS systems. Send me Vauxhall.

  Something positive (not required, but recommended):
  I’m glad I was exposed to Saab years ago as “having an aquired taste, like olives”. I’m also glad Saab exists still in America. But right now, the only new cars that interest me are made by Citroen and I can’t buy one here.

  -September 23rd, 2005 at 8:59 pm
• Carl said:
  

  Name: Carl Levine

  Location: West-Central New Hampshire

  Comments on the current Saab lineup: Naturally, this is what the designers had envisioned for this point in time as far as the core products (9-3 and 9-5) are concerned. The 9-3 and 9-5 are both strong contenders despite the relative age of the product vs. the competition. Given the fact that the 9-5 has not received any major structural changes since its conception in the mid 1990’s, it’s still a fantastic car with a fantastic powertrain. As for the 9-3, a car I was initially skeptical about until I got to drive one, this product line has revitalized the business end. 9-2x and 9-7x are good stop-gaps for what they are, despite the fact that the 9-2x is clearly an Impreza and the 9-7x has the same cheap plastic as any other GMT-360, just molded into a more familiar form. Overall, happy with the true Saabs, and unhappy with the rest.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist) :
  1. Alternative fuels! I want to see the Diesel and E85 engine here in America. Market share can only be gained by this option.

  2. 9-2x should be built on a small AWD platform (is Delta AWD-able?). The shape should be reminiscent of a Saab 99/900. Simple interior controls and instrumentation, good Saab seats, and yes, a Turbo motor (the old 175hp B207 Ecotec would work well here).

  3. I know the next 9-3 has already been designed, suppliers have been lined up and heck, even test mules are probably roaming the Arctic Circle… The 9-3 should have evolutionary changes, it’s a fantastic car.

  4. 9-4x? What’s all this malarky about such a thing? If the Vue/Equinox/Grand Vitara platform is as any bit as nice as GM says it is, what could it hurt to have a nice diesel-fueled or even HYBRID Saab 9-4x to fight to X3, upcoming Acura RD-X and such?

  5. The 9-5 is, and always has been a fantastic car. I have no doubts that an Epsilon-2 based version will yield fantastic results like the current 9-3. Keep the interior distinctive, and hide the parts from the other GM divisions behind the dashboard. I know the next 9-5 is the death knell for the “classic” 2nd-revision H-engine, I just hope that a suitable replacement is in the works.

  6. Dust in the wind… make that 9-6x to look anything like a Tribeca and people will be running from the Saab lots like another Japanese horror, Godzilla. I was pleased to hear from an inside source that original few designs were scrapped because Jay thought they were hideous. The 9-6x must follow the Saab design formula: Hockey Stick, Clamshell Hood, 3-Port Grille, Triangular rear lamp profile, wrap-around flight-deck, TURBO!

  7. Our favorite Bravada replacement… GM screwed up big time by NOT keeping this on the same chassis as the Cadillac SRX. The next 9-7x, if necessary, should be more car-based than anything else.

  8. Continuity will be the winning formula here… if all the vehicles look the part, there won’t be so much confusion and it won’t be entirely too easy to differentiate the rebadges from the genuine article.

  Something positive (not required, but recommended):
  Saab has played a key role in my life since my 13th birthday when I was presented with the opportunity to learn to drive standard on a 900S Convertible that I would one day come to own. Ten years later, having become very involved with the owner community, been a Saab sales associate, met my future wife because of these crazy cars and owned a whole crapload of awesome 99’s and 900’s, one crappy 9000 and a fantastic 9-5… I don’t want to see it end. I want to see cars that are inspired by the beauty and simplicity of Scandinavia, and not the balance sheets of Detroit. Saab has been great as an innovator, and I would like to see more of this. Frankly, I can’t see myself driving anything else but a Saab. Thank you GM for rescuing Saab from its certain death after the Wallenbergs sold out, Scania pulled up anchor and Investor AB parted ways… You have created a new company from the molten fragments of what once was, now you must put a great shine on it and make it something for all of us enthusiasts to be proud of. Thank you.

  -September 24th, 2005 at 1:11 am
• Carl said:
  

  I forgot to mention. I have been a Saab owner since 1998 and have owned the following Saab products:

  1. 1989 Saab 900 base
  2. 1988 Saab 900 Turbo
  3. 1993 Saab 900S Convertible
  4. 1978 Saab 99GL
  5. 1985 Saab 900S Notchback
  6. 1979 Saab 900EMS
  7. 1997 Saab 900SE Turbo
  8. 1985 Saab 900 Turbo
  9. 1973 Saab 99L
  10. 1987 Saab 900 Turbo
  11. 1994 Saab 9000 Aero
  12. Current car: 1999 Saab 9-5 SE (Early production B235L/5M)

  -September 24th, 2005 at 1:19 am
• Sergey Chernov said:
  

  Name: Sergey Chernov
  Location: Chicago, USA

  I currently drive….and have owned # Saabs.
  2003 SAAB 9-3SS

  Comments on the current Saab lineup
  9-3: Probably best out of the whole line up. But US model suffer from lack of key features available in EU: like a GSM phone and bluetooth. No digital Onstar upgrade availalbe and forcing people to use crappy analog service is not right.
  Dealers need to be mored educated about the car - if you talke to 5 people, you get 5 different answers.
  2006 9-5: Exterior refresh is nice, but inside is horrible. Especially the generic radio/climat control stalk. Saab is supposed to be different, and not look like another plane GM product.
  9-7: Although SAAB needed an SUV - no matter how you look at at 9-7, it is still a CK Chevy truck and there is no way arround it. Maybe a Cadillac SRX should have been used a base not a Olds Bravada.
  9-2X - I would say that idea was nice. AWD is nice. Subaru Turbo is nice. Exterior is nice. But interior is just bad. If saab redesigned the inside of the car on par with 9-3, it would have been flying off the lots!!!!! Instead you get horrible seats and shiny dash.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist)
  9-5 needs to be thoroughly redesigned. Make turbo lag on a 2.3 disappear. Make interior unique and don’t use cheap GM components from other brands.
  9-6 - don’t repeat what happened with 9-2x. Redo the interior to match true Saab character.

  Something positive (not required, but recommended)
  Saab drivers will stand behind Saab if GM is willing to support them and offer good product. Cost cutting and GM-ing Saab line will kill the customer base.

  -September 24th, 2005 at 2:35 am
• Pedro Lima said:
  

  Name. Pedro Lima

  Location.Aveiro,Portugal

  I currently drive Saab 9-3TiD’99 and have owned 3 Saabs: Saab 9000t16, Saab 9000CSE ecopower

  Comments on the current Saab lineup

  Well, first of all, i´m portuguese and i can´t speak english very well, so sorry about some mistakes.Current Saab lineup is very atractive, the 9-3SS/SH is a great car, the single fail of the car is the lack of a more powerful diesel engine (like the 2.4Multijet 200hp from the GM/Fiat Powertrain). The 9-5 is very “saabish”, congratulations but it was a antiquated chassis (260hp e to much for a FWD car…), i love saab´s but i simple don´t see any reason to buy a 9-5 instead the 5-series BMW, Lancia Thesis or even the Volvo S60/S80). It needs a replace really hurry, the new facelift didn´t resolve anything. same advice about the diesel engine.

  About the American lineup, well i´m sorry but it is a shame.. the 9-2x and 9-7x didn´t respect the saab tradiction in any way i hope you´ve a replace for both but really saabs…

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist)
  I think that saab really needs a car like 1series BMW, Audi A3, Alfa 147, and the new Volvo C30 in the lineup. GM have a good base (Opel Astra) Think about it, it should be a priority..a new 9-5 is really needed too, a car like the actual should be ok
  at long term i think that the saab should return to the hatchbacks with a with a “old school” 3 and 5 door 2009 9-3.

  Something positive (not required, but recommended)

  GOOD LUCK and hear what the saabs fans says!

  -September 24th, 2005 at 4:47 am
• Tony said:
  

  Tony from Cleveland, Ohio

  Current Saabs:
  1999 9-3S convertible
  1998 900 SE Coupe

  Previous Saabs:
  1994 900S Sedan
  1998 900S Convertible

  I Love the Combi (and the SS) but my wife doesn’t want me to buy a Combi.
  (I would do EDP by the way).
  She told me “it still looks like a ’soccer mom’ car to me!” Every time I bring it up I hear:
  “I’m not a soccer mom!”
  That tell you anything?!?
  She does like the SS very much.
  The 9-7X is a great looking SUV and hope it does well for you. I personally wouldn’t own any SUV as I don’t need one. My current 30+ MPG COUPE (hint) hatchback is sufficient for my needs.
  The 9-2 is nice, but I don’t like that there is now a non-turbo in the lineup. I liked the old Saab ads a few years back. ‘The State of Independence where even the wagons are turbocharged!’.
  It needs a better interior, though. No SID?!?

  The future:
  -Where is a 2 door SS?!?! I *LOVE* the SS. It really is an amazing car. But I think coupes are just plain sexier then sedans! I don’t want/need 4 doors. If the SS came in a 2 DOOR COUPE I would be booking tickets to Sweden for the EDP. BMW has a coupe.
  -It’s time for a new Viggen or Sonnet. You can’t let the name Sonnet never be used for a car again. Really sporty car for not a ton of money. Get on that, would you please?!? *wink

  As you can tell from my car history, I am not one of those people that think GM owning Saab is a bad thing. If it wasn’t for GM, I probably wouldn’t have fallen in love with Saab. The past 4 Saabs were also my 5th through 8th GM’s. I think you are on the right track.
  Keep up the good work.

  -September 24th, 2005 at 10:57 am
• 1985 Gripen said:
  

  Name.
  Mike Mc Gill

  Location.
  Woodland Hills, California, USA

  I currently drive….and have owned # Saabs.
  Currently drive a 1985 SAAB 900 Turbo 3-door, wife drives a 2001 SAAB 9-3 5-door. I previously owned a 1981 SAAB 900 Turbo 4-door sedan

  Comments on the current Saab lineup
  Like others mentioned the Subaru WRX is a great car, but the interior of the 9-2X needs to be “SAAB-ized” like the 9-7X was. Also every SAAB model should have a turbo. I don’t mind SAAB having an SUV, I just wish they would have been allowed to design one on a pre-existing GM platform, like Ford allowed Volvo to design the XC90. I don’t care for the sedan body style of the current 9-3 and think it looks too run-of-the-mill. The SportCombi is a little better, but I don’t think the 9-3 line needed a wagon. I would’ve rather seen a hatch. The 9-5 is long in the tooth, but I applaud the new aggressive front-end styling. At its price though I don’t know that I’d buy it over a competitor’s product.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist)
  I don’t mind SAAB building on shared GM platforms. I don’t mind parts-bin sharing (as long as the best part is shared between marques). However, I don’t care for the “badge engineering”. I think it dilutes the brand identity. Manufacture the cars wherever makes the most fiscal sense (ensure QUALITY is paramount though. These ARE near-luxury products), but ensure the design work is done in Sweden and that superior Swedish steel is used. If for example, GM would like to save money by sharing a GM stereo in the new 9-5 at least disguise the fascia and add some better quality knobs and switches to at least have the facade of a more premium interior than that found in a Chevy Cobalt.

  Wish list: a small convertible (Sonett) with SVC/SCC engine. Or the SAAB 9X concept with aforementioned engine. This could be sold as the new 9-2X or a 9-1X to compete with BMW 1-series and Audi A3. Or build a hard-top coupe version of the Sonett like the BMW Z3 Coupe.

  Something positive (not required, but recommended)
  GM saved SAAB from fading to oblivion. GM also seems to really wish for SAAB to be a premium brand. Please don’t dilute the SAAB brand further. Remember, SAAB’s slogan is “State of Independence”, not “Copy the other Guy and be an Also-Ran”.

  Lastly, take the pulse of the SAAB-afficianado world by regularly reading the posts in the forums at SAABCentral (http://www.saabcentral.com/forums) and Trollhattan SAAB (http://trollhattansaab.net).

  -September 24th, 2005 at 1:19 pm
• Swade said:
  

  Name - Steven Wade

  Location Hobart Tasmania

  I currently drive a 1994 9000CS and a 1979 99 Turbo and have owned 3 other Saabs in the past.

  Comments on the current Saab lineup: I think the 9-2x was a great idea that was poorly executed. I don’t know how much leverage you have over Subaru, but that car really needed a Saab interior and a bigger market to sell to. It’d get a whole lot more market acceptance in Europe and Asia if it was set up right.

  The 9-3 and 9-5 are fantastic vehicles. Having driven them both I’d be proud to own either one of them (though restricted finances make this hard for me at the moment). I’ve been a little concerned by recent reading about things like the poor entertainment systems and sagging seats. the cockpit of the car is where people get down to business and it shouldn’t be compromised. Stereo systems couldn’t posibly make up a major cost component, so why skimp on this?

  It doesn’t take much to make a bad reputation, but it takes a lot of work to turn one around. Things like poor customer experiences due to cheap items like a stereo should never, ever happen.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist): I’d really love to see a good value, high performance entry level model. By entry level I’m talking about A$35K. Hopefully the rumours about a Saab-designed 9-2 for the future are true and there will be some sort of 900-reminiscent vehicle available in the future at a good entry-level price. I think there’d be a huge market for it.

  I think collaborations with innovative companies like Suuby are fine, but the vehicles have to project a Saab lineage. For any extra sales it might have got, the 9-2x has almost undone that ‘good’ with the ‘bad’ of poor public perception. This HAS to be overcome in the future with models like the 9-6x.

  Something positive (not required, but recommended): The only other brands I could ever imagine myself driving are Alfa and Porsche. Even then I will still always have a Saab in the garage. Thanks GM for the lifeline, but please preserve the heritage. It’s about more than just dollars and cents to us, it’s about the automotive experience that driving a Saab is. If that exerience ceases to be unique, then everyone loses. Despite the odd shortfall, the current Saabs are great and I’m looking forward to even better driving in years to come.

  -September 25th, 2005 at 10:59 am
• TuuSaR said:
  

  Finland, Helsinki

  Driven 99 and 900, dont own any car.

  Shortlist:

  -Make 2-seater racing car with HARDtop

  -If Saab needs to compete with price, then its not best of the class

  -People used to get Saab because of best safety, engine, reliability, technology and overall engineering for the money. What is inside that you cant see makes the Saab, not how it looks, or where the key is!

  -Reliability is single most important factor in todays sales, its not standard like Lutz says!

  -Saab needs to stay on top of innovations and it happens only if Saab engineers are working on them. Dont waste potential brainpower that lays in Sweden.

  -Hybrids are mostly marketing gimmick.

  -Dont let USA market to dictate too much of model lineup. 9-2X is warning example.

  -Dont make 9-6X, overall Subaru is not correct partner of Saab, its Cadillac and Opel.

  -Saab needs small city-car for the European market. Not big SUV’s.

  -Ethanol Saab arrvies like last minute rescuer in old western movie. Thats the correct way to differ from the rest, done by engineer not visual designer.

  -September 26th, 2005 at 8:14 am
• PT said:
  

  Name: Pete Tomlinson
  Location: Forresters Beach, Australia

  I currently drive….and have owned # Saabs: various…..

  Current Drives:
  2004 Toyota Prado 4.0 V6 ( Landcruiser)
  1997 Saab 900S 2.5 V6 (A better car than you’d think and what got me into SAAB in the first place)
  Coming soon: 900 Aero 2.0 coupe

  Comments on the current Saab lineup:
  Getting better but still too limited here ( only 93 & 95 available). Pricing is generally too high and there is not enough made of the SAAB technologies into the middle of the market. Current GM Australia business model of having their GM dealerships carry a “Saab Corner” is mostly just silly. They have one or two cars and generally no idea about them. There is a definite lack of expertise and weight behind Saab via GM in Australia.
  Resale values here are apalling and so the next SAAB i buy will not be a new one.Probably a used 95 or 93 Aero wagon. GM here do nothing to help resale with their own (Holden) product so its no wonder they have no clue about Saab. Have a long, hard look at your business model in Australia. It is only the independent Saab dealers who have seem to have any idea.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist:

  A range is needed.

  * Small hatch/wagon: the 92 was a good start, despite what some think

  * medium hatch/wagon/sedan/convertible/coupe/4×4

  * large wagon/sedan/convertible/4 x4 (proper 4 x 4, with transfer case & low range etc.)

  * new generation people-mover

  * coupe flagship ( think BMW 6 )

  * commercial vehicles( as per Renault/Mercedes ?!?!) Or is that what Scania is for?

  Something positive (not required, but recommended):

  There is still lots to look forward to and be proud of in SAAB. The current lineup is individually impressive in its segments but overall lacking. GM seems to be confused about the strategies for its various brands, probably because they occupy very similar places in the market and there is a high level of cannibalism percieved.
  Some topline strategy that is well-based in market/customer/engineering knowledge would help. Saab could fit into the GM business in a number of different ways but it needs to work from the ground up, not the other way.

  The 93 Sportcombi looks like a great car and the V6 direction is interesting. Just make sure that you don’t squander the assets saab has in the process of re-inventing it:

  Turbo
  Front wheel drive
  innovative, practical Swedish design
  efficient 4 cyl engines + Biopower (surely this is the future, not hybrid?)
  Safety
  overall drive-ability
  comfort
  logic
  customer loyalty

  Just for fun, go back to rallying/racing and build some interest in the cars from a performance aspect. Race a Biopower 93.

  Finally, thanks for keeping the whole thing running but it could be so much better.

  -September 26th, 2005 at 1:00 pm
• josé said:
  

  everything that i wants to say are already said.. i just want a svc engine

  -September 26th, 2005 at 7:26 pm
• Joe said:
  

  Name: Joe
  Location: Lakeland, Florida

  I currently drive: 2002 9-5 Aero(Manual of course)
  I have owned: 1988 Saab 9000 Turbo, 1991 Saab 9000 Turbo and an Audi A4 2.8 Quattro

  Comments on the current Saab lineup:
  I love all the current Saabs. The WRX is a beloved car. It still looks 10x better as a Saab. Saabify that interior a little more if possible though. The 9-7X is hot! So what if it is glorified Chevy to some. The Porsche Cayenne is a glorified VW. The Infinity QX45 is a glorified Nissan Armada. As for those who think it is not what the Saab purist wants, let them ask the many customers that have left to buy an SUV. Any “purist” that thinks Saab shouldn’t have an SUV is purely insane! The 9-3 is really nice but, the interior materials have to be upgraded; going back to the Saab 900s, I have always thought the interiors to be on the cheap/dated/bland looking side. The 9-3 sport-combi must be brought to the U.S. with those clear rear lights. It lends to a more distinguished look. And my favorite of all… the 9-5! This car is my favorite of all Saabs ever made. There is nothing about this car that I don’t like. The best car GM has! What car in the GM line-up has or had the ability to look this good 8 years running! I am always receiving compliments on the car. Some points for the next all new 9-5: Make all the windows auto up/down. Imitate Audi’s sunroof system(industries best). Place a scan option in the radio. Allow for plug-ins for the stereo.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs:
  Make the 9X please, Please, PLEASE!
  I have a picture of one at the office and people are always commenting on the beauty of this car. This could be Saab’s Solstice.

  All future Saabs should have the option of 4 wheel drive (I almost went back to Audi because of it) especially with the increasing horsepower.
  Tourque steer can be dangerous.

  Keep at least one of the models (9-5) in Sweden.

  What about that 8 cylinder Saab was working on?

  Misc. Comments:
  GM has always been my favorite company since I was 12, I am 33 now. I was infected with the Saab bug about 10 years ago so i love the Fact that the two are now one.

  I am not concerned with platform sharing. As long as the car is distinct enough, of good quality, has the character of a Traditional Saab and gives great gas mileage, I will purchase. I personally think people hold GM to a different standard than all other makers. Toyota sells a Camry(ugly) as a Lexus(uglier) no one says a peep. VW bug and the Audi TT are the same. I think what’s being done is necessary for the survival of Saab. I also think GM is doing it right.

  Free advertising. Why doesn’t the Saab dealer put Saabs in places where persons passing by can quickly see them? Go to Scott Saab in Tampa, Fl for a great example of this simple failure.

  GM consider this: Most customers purchasing Saabs cross-shop them with BMW, Audi, Benz, Volvo, etc. Make Saab equal to Cadillac. For those who will not purchase an American car you can market the Saab. $40,000 - $50,000 on a Caddy or a Saab is money in the bank for the company either way. Don’t just put Caddy against the world. Attack on two fronts. Consider BMW. It wasn’t always what it is today.

  I wish the company much success. Long live Saab!

  -September 27th, 2005 at 1:55 pm
• Andreas Hodab said:
  

  Andreas Hodab

  Location: Graz, Austria

  I currently drive a 1989 900i 16V CC 5door.

  Comments on the current Saab lineup
  Well, today you have to dinstinguish between the Saabs in Europe and in the United States.
  9-3 SS is a very good car, but you have to drive it to say that. Design of the 9-3 is pretty but a bit too normal compared to older Saabs, the new 9-3 SH is better now. The convertible isn’t everyones taste but it has its own, extraordinary look. In Europe sales will raise if there is a diesel engine with about 200 hp as option in the 9-3 series. Also a 3 door Coupé or a 5 door CombiCoupé is missing I think.
  9-5 97-05 is a Saab with all the characteristics of older Saabs like 900, 90, 99… It has a timeless design, it is, altough it has been built for 8 years one of the prettiest cars on the market. The new one’s front is very cool (I also love the 9-X), but the back is a bit idealess I think (compare the lights with those of a BMW!?). Interior has nearly stayed the same, that’s good because it’s the best ever with its big switches, clear scales and so on, but do not put GM parts like the climate control in! (The mirror switch is enough :-))
  And don’t do it the other way around too, like the door-panels… in the new Cadillac BLS which are taken from the 9-3!
  9-2X looks at first sight very good, but go closer and you see lots of, Im sorry, mistakes. The good side is the performance and the image of the Impreza WRX, but the normal Impreza can’t reach Saab’s high level especially in the interior. Although Saab and Subaru have same roots in the aircraft industry, they developed to different directions and different targetgroups (i.e. boxer-engine, all-wheel-drive, material-quality, design in general…)
  The 9-7X is better than the 9-2X but not perfect, too! Saab isn’t a company which will put in a big V8 to have enough power, or?

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist)
  Please give us 3 and 5 doors of the 9-3.
  9-6X yes, but without boxer-engine and with an nice interior.
  Build a Saab 9-2 which is compareable to BMW’s 1-series, Alfa 147 or smaller, the Mini.
  Let the 9-X come true and perhaps cut off its roof for the next Sonnet.
  Find some SMART, saab-like solutions for all existing and new models, i.e. replace the V8 in the 9-7X with a 4 Cylinder Twinturbo (or bring SVC back to life, downsizing), develop all engines for driving with alternative fuels (Biopower).
  From the first sketch of the car on the Saab-spirit should be implemented and not be sticked on afterwards by some marketing-experts.

  Something positive
  Driving a Saab is unique: Every mile is a pleasure for me, you feel like in your home (castle), after 5 hours driving you jump out of the car without feeling tired (the seats are superb), with the turbo you can have fun or drive efficient, there’s enough space for all activities altough the cars aren’t the biggest, and everytime I see my SAAB I love him for a new!

  -September 28th, 2005 at 2:15 am
• Brian said:
  

  Brian.

  Austin, Texas, USA

  First off, I’m extremely happy with the 9-7x. I just wish that there were more available.

  I currently own an ‘04 9-3 Aero, and previously a ‘99 9-3 Viggen. I’m also a Saab dealer, and am extremely concerned with the performance oriented Saab’s (ie Viggens and Aeros) lack of a limited slip differential. We have the ability to produce a great deal of power, and tout our performance capabilities, yet we have a very inefficient manner in which we put that power to the pavement. I’m especially concerned with the new 9-3 Aero’s 250hp V6. While the engine will be a nice addition, I feel that it will be compromised without the Limited Slip Diff. We desperately need this change if we are ever going to be on par with BMW and Audi in the performance field. While I don’t think that we can ignore our long term need for All Wheel Drive, I certainly do think that we need a short term fix for our current Front Wheel Drive traction issues.

  Another needed addition to the US market is a diesel engine. Get the current diesels certified for the states so that we can compete with Volkswagen’s TDI powerplant. We currently have the technology and the production capabilities to include the engine, yet they are not imported to the US. With gas prices in all of the domestic headlines we can’t afford to miss this opportunity.

  These are the smallest two investments that we can make to improve our sales, being that they don’t require years of product development. The components exist we just need to make them available. Please, cut through the red tape and get this done for all of our sakes.

  Overall, I am very pleased with the direction that we’ve been taking in the past few years, minor setbacks aside we’ve improved leaps and bounds from where we were ten years ago.

  -September 28th, 2005 at 4:49 am
• Herb Weichmann said:
  

  I’ll keep this short. I get a perspective on these issues every day. I am a SAAB sales manager here in the states and long time SAAB driver (1988 900 SPG, 1991 900S, 1991 900 SE Conv., 1994 900 SEC, and 1999 9-5)and must say that if it weren’t for GM SAAB would most likely only exist as a small niche car targeted for Europe and Europe only. Gm’s pockets have kept the strength of SAAB’s lineup (9-3 and 9-5) moving in the right direction, but there plan for the future is all wrong. GM’s idea of making this wonderful niche car of the past into a vehicle that appeals to the masses is insane. It NEVER will happen! 200,000 Sales per year?? Forget about it! I understand that you have to move forward with new product but be smart about it. SAAB is a niche car and will always be a niche car!! Create some excitement in these cars, just don’t simply fill the void with rebadged goods. The 9-2x was neat but sold POORLY and resembled the subaru too much. The 9-7x is cool, drives nicely but just does not differ enough from the Chevy and Olds. Bring back a old gen 900 body style. I get this question ALOT from customers. IT would create HUGE excitement and maybe get SAAB pointed in the right direction. I know I would be first in line!! Keep SAAB, a SAAB!!

  -September 28th, 2005 at 4:51 am
• Tobias said:
  

  Name: Tobias Nilsson
  Location: Lund, Sweden

  I currently drive….and have owned # Saabs.
  Dont drive anything at the moment
  My family has owned/own:
  Saab 99
  Saab 900 (old)
  Saab 900 (new modell)
  Saab 9-3 (old)
  Saab 9000
  Saab 9-5

  Comments on the current Saab lineup
  9-3: Well not much to say,the bset car in the line up. Just listen to what is said in reviews and from customer. And this car will continue to sell strong with a update.

  2006 9-5: Exterior refresh is good, it is a bit agressive and thats good. Maybe it has got a little to much of a US-look. The inside is mixes with feelings. Some like the knobs fpr climate is very nice, but I miss the old speed meter. Many of the controls seems to come from other GM-brands and that horrible.
  9-7: Although SAAB needed an SUV its not the kind of SUV Saab would build if Saab had been involved from the first moment. But design is rather good. But this can onl be a stepstone and should be removed when 9-6x comes around
  9-2X - Nice idea, but badly performed. Exterior is nice but moore had easily been done. The back part is not diffrent to Subaru. The interior is, well crap. Why isnt there seats from the 9-3? Why isnt there other dashboards from Saab. For me it seems like a low cost to put them there, and then the higher price compared to Subaru had been motivated.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist)
  Make the Saabs unique! Saab has unique Design, perfomrance safety-thinking and inovative solutions.
  Modell-lineup!
  9-1 Build together with Astra, but it must be out in stores before Opel. Its wrong when the premiumcar comes after the massproduction. From 9-1 a small sportscar (cabrio) called Sonett would be nice!

  9-3 Like today 3 modells, maybe a coupé but thats not priority. 4-wheeldrive would be a nice option.

  9-3x (also known as the 9-4x, I like it when al cars can end on uneaven number.) Should move like a car and feel lika one but bigger. 3 and 5 dorrs.

  9-5 Must be a bit bigger to seprate from 9-3. The new modell is wanted. Frontwheel and 4-wheel drive.

  9-7x The new suv. currently know as 9-6x and developed from Tribeca. Its better to skipp the current 9-7 and this should be the replacement.

  Also i would like to stress that keep on develope SVC. Also biopwer in all new models from 2007. A sportsdiesel with Aero-kit and Aero-acceleration. Hybrids would be cool!
  Never forgett that Saab must have a real modell coming from Trollhättan, or the genes fade away.

  Something positive (not required, but recommended)
  The cuts has been necesary for Saab. But it is time to take a good look and make a program for 5-10 years. It will probalby be costly, but big earnings will be made! Saab has a lot to offer, and GM has the toolbox in the house. Just make the make standout and the buyers will come in hordes. take share by selling saab in more stores and be agressive in developing markets!

  -September 29th, 2005 at 12:43 am
• shane said:
  

  Shane Chambers
  Fenton, Michigan, USA
  2003 Saab 9 3 Linear (my first Saab)
  Saab has a good opportunity to still retain their individual personality and appearance. I hope they don’t get too GM’ified.
  I’m very dissapointed in the quality of my car, oil leak, EHU went out resulting in no Stereo. The vehicle is 10K miles out of warranty so the dealership wanted to charge me $1664 to repair the EHU.

  Something positive…I enjoy driving the vehicle, and I still think it’s sharp looking. Just very bummed about the quality…or lack there of.

  I hope they can evolve back into what Saab used to be. A unique, quality vehicle. A little more individual than most cars on the road.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 3:20 am
• Sam Kang said:
  

  Sam kang

  I currently drive a Saab 9-2x Aero.
  It is my first Saab.

  Im in the retail division for Saab.

  I would like to see a diesel engine avalible in the Saab line up, I see many people in my store that complain about the lack of a diesel engine.

  I know that GM is good for saab, but I would like to see Saab having more control over the product. Saab is known for it’s quirkyness and its independence that separates it form the pack.
  It’s the little things that Saab puts in the cars, and I see GM is taking out ( not good ).

  Form what I have heard, Saab has many new inovations in sweden, but it seems that in north America we are so up tight and dont bring these new ideas into our cars. Saab needs to be a leader in desigh and inovation.

  The 9-2x, dont like the fact that it feels like a tin can, dents to easy. When you shut the doors with the windows down, it sounds like it will fall apart.
  love the performance end, but too much turbo lag.

  9-3 awsome car
  9-5 dido
  9-7 feel like a GM truck still.

  Dont get me wrong I think GM has helped Saab with its much needed lineup. But it is time to get saab engineers in the mix to make them more Saabish

  Wish list– I would love to see the 9-x
  the concept cars are amazing, put some more styling Q’s and creative new design’s in future models. The cars need more power from well thought out smaller engins. Less of the famous big GM motors.

  Saab owners dont want their beloved brand to look or feel like and American car.

  Saab so depiratly needs more advertisments.
  I have some very good ad’s for the 9-3 iv been working on.

  On the positive side GM has helped Saab increase its tiny line up and gave the cars a much needed new look. They were like the volvo’s never changing.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 5:04 am
• Bill Anderson said:
  

  Name: Bill Anderson

  Location: Long Island, NY

  I currently drive: 1987 Saab 900 Sedan, my wife has a 1999 9-3 5-door. My family has owned several Saabs, including a 1970 Saab 96 (purchased new), 1972 Saab 99L (also purchased new), a 1984 900 Turbo Sedan, a 1987 9000 Turbo, and a 1986 900S.

  Comments on the current Saab lineup:
  9-2x: Good concept, but needed more polish. Most comments I agree with, the exterior was pretty good, but the interior was sub-par…I don’t mind cloth and simple interiors, but make it functional and high quality, like the old base model, classic 900’s.

  9-3: I like the current 93SS/SC/Convertible very much.

  9-5: The last true Saab, with the Triumph-derived iron-block. I love this car, but unfortunately it’s time to put her out to pasture, she’s a has-been.

  9-7x: I think this is a better effort than the 9-2x was in execution, but it much too truck-like for most of the Saab demographic. V8’s are not impressive. I would have made a turbo inline-6 model for the top-of the line.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs/AKA my wishlist:

  9-1/9-1x: The 9-1 should be a small coupe, aka the Sonnett, even RWD might be permissible here. The 9-1x should be an AWD 3/5-door, designed to compete with the Golf, Impreza, Audi A3, and small Volvo’s. High quality, but not super-luxury should be the hallmark here, a true successor to the Saab 99.

  9-2x: Superceded by the 9-1x, so it will be dropped

  9-3/9-3x: 9-3 models should be FWD in Sedan/Coupe/Retractable Hardtop/Wagon forms, the 9-3x will be the same but with AWD. A new high performance model should be offered in all bodystyles with AWD, twin-turbo V6 (300 HP+), manual trans only. Size of the current platform is very nice, maybe offer a raised wagon form, aka Audi Allroad or Volvo XC-70 for people who want a more SUV-like car in it’s class.

  9-5/9-5x: Same formula as the next-gen 9-3, but no coupe/retractable hardtop offering. All V6 powered.

  9-7x: Superceded by a 9-5x wagon variant that is raised and more car-like, but still offers some off-road/crossover capabilities.

  9-9x: A high-end coupe and sedan to show that Saab has the engineering prowess to make a truly distinctive luxury car. Larger than the 9-5/9-5x, but perhaps using the same platform, just stretched. Twin-Turbo V6’s (350HP+) and AWD are standard, Should be priced in the $40-60K class, but undercutting the European competition. Concentrate on high quality materials, but revolutionize the class by making these cars very lightweight and efficient, so they don’t need to compete in the horsepower wars, they get around it by being elegantly engineered to perform as well with less.

  Keep building Saabs in Trollhattan, make sure R&D and engineering still takes place there. Without some of the Swedish heart and soul in the design of Saab, you no longer have the marque.

  Something positive:
  Overall, I’m not unhappy with GM and Saab. I am grateful that GM had the vision to take Saab under their wing. I also realize the cost of doing business globally today. My worst fear is that Saab will either A) Cease to exist, and become the next Oldsmobile, or B) Become a faceless GM variant, ala Chevy/Pontiac/Buick. So far GM seems pretty committed to developing Saab into a strong brand, and I’d like to see this continue. Saab is a small and proud company, with a small and proud group of owners. While volume of sales is important, don’t lose sight of the heritage and why that heritage is important to the people who love and drive Saabs. The Subaru connection is interesting, due to their heritage in airplanes and rallying, but ideally Saab is more closely tied to the philosophy and direction of the GMEurope marques, resources and engineering should be pooled and exchanged within GME. The Saab product should represent the premium offerings from GME, so Saab should take the lead in design and engineering, and then the Opel/Vauxhall variants can be adapted off of the Saab designs. This isn’t to say that Vauxhall/Opel engineers should be downsized, but rather work with the Saab team for the basic platform, then move to develop their variant as Saab does with theirs.

  Thanks for this opportunity!

  -September 29th, 2005 at 5:21 am
• Abe Covello said:
  

  Name: Abe Covello
  Location: Houston, TX
  I currently drive: 2000 93 Viggen
  I have owned # Saabs: 3. 2004 93 Arc/2004 93 Aero/ 2000 93 Viggen

  Comments on the current Saab lineup: The 93 is a great car. I liked them enough to get 2 of them. Looks amazing, drives amazing. Everything you could want in a small sedan.
  95 - Please do a full redesign ofthis car. It looks great, but the dash is lacking the necessary refinement. It is well past it’s due for a new 95.
  97x - Great exterior. Poor interior. I looked at one and decided on the Volvo SUV instead. The 97x suffers from a sever lack of any interior “Saabness”.
  92x - It’s a really nice WRX.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs:
  It would be really great to see something that isn’t a rehash of a mediocre GM platform. Saab needs more of the following - AWD. Viggen. Cutting edge design. Sonnett.

  Something positive: GM is obviously commited to Saab not becoming another Oldsmobile. And I realize that most of the new models are just there as stopgaps untill Saab/GM has the capital to produce something a bit more Saab-like. At least I hope so. Saab, however, needs to concentrate more on what has made them successful so far. Cutting edge technology, slightly quirky designed turbo charged cars.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 7:33 am
• sam said:
  

  Name: Sam Loftin
  Currently own: 2004 9-3 Linear
  Have owned: 2001 9-3, 1990 VW Passat wagon, 1979 99GL
  Current line up: I love my 9-3. I chose it over the 9-2x because 9-2x lacked automatic with the turbo motor, had less rear legroom and the ride was rougher. Otherwise, the 9-2x was a fine car. Dunno anything about the other models.
  Future line up: I would like AWD on the 9-3, like my wife has on her Jaguar X-type. A hatchback would be nice. I miss the cargo room in the 2001 9-3 and until I can buy and restore a 60’s era El Camino, need something that can haul the occasional big load. More horsepower and better mileage at the same time. (You can do that, can’t you?) Maybe even a diesel motor if you can get it to pass US emissions.

  Something positive: Like I said before, I love my Saabs. Please keep them around and don’t try and turn them into clones of Audis or BMWs. They need to retain their Saab-ness. (I can’t exactly describe what that is, but it keeps me driving them. Maybe a combination of sportiness, practicality, and advanced design and engineering. More than just and ignition key between the seats.) And thanks for the opportunity to comment.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 7:34 am
• Peter Roscoe said:
  

  Location: UK/France

  I currently drive a 1994 Classic 900 convertible and have owned four Saabs.

  Comments on the current Saab lineup: I helped a lady friend buy a new convertible - she just wanted something different. I liked it very much. I’m afraid the rest of the lineup leaves me cold, although I’m sure they are very good cars.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs: Please, please make it a bit different; ok, maybe it has to share a chassis, but make the body stand out. Also, make a five door again. And give it a Swedish taste. A real Swedish taste. Not necessarily too quirky; how about the BMW of GM? (distinctive and readily indentifiable I mean)

  Something positive (not required, but recommended)

  I am waiting for the day you produce a distinctive SAAB and I’ll buy one!

  -September 29th, 2005 at 8:07 am
• Paul said:
  

  Bob. I tell it as it is. This is my fourth Saab and my last. From begining to end has been a complete disaster. The reliability has been awful, the components have been cheap and fail miserably. I have loved all my Saabs - and I do love my current car - but it is such a waste of a potetntially fantastic car. You miss the mark by a mile! You bought the name and you bought the Company and whereas you maybe shifting lots of units, I think they will come back like a boomerang and sting you on the A*se.

  Just a few pennies more, a few more minutes thought, and to get someone in the company who actually cares about the customer to take ownership of problems, to turn it around and turn it into a happy situation for a customer. I have tried to solve the problems myself but noone is listenning - and noone cares.

  I can only think that such an attitude only comes from the top. My next car will be Japanese - they make fantastic reliable cars - sadly Saab do not any more.

  On a positive note - please DO SOMETHING PROPER WITH SAAB and turn the company around. Do something with the low morale of the staff who constantly moan to us customers and make Saab a great name once again - I am sure you can do it - it is the only option you now have. Please give design control back to the Swedes and make Saabs real Saabs again. The only other positive thing I can suggest is that if you do not succeed, either hand in your notice or sell Saab to a Company that cares about it’s customers and who will invest significant amounts. We do not need Caddillacs in Europe - READ MY LIPS - NOONE WILL BUY THEM!!! So save the money and invest in Saabs in Europe- Saab is the deserving cause. Saab has a heritage of quality - but sadly not Aerplanes - that was 20 years ago!

  Saab stands for quality and design innovation for the driver who wants to be different. A saab driver is someone that acquires a taste for a car and once converted never goes anywhere else.
  Sadly the GM customer experience has done the complete opposite for me and many others.

  I hold you personally responsible for it’s Future. So do not abuse it!

  PS - The Electric wing mirrors and Xenon headlights on the 95 are fantastic - shame about the front seats and the faulty Satnav systems. But we are clubbing together to pay a lawyer to sort that problem because it seems that you do not care! If you do care please contact me before I issue the writ!

  -September 29th, 2005 at 9:13 am
• Ravi Menon said:
  

  Location. London Ontario

  I currently drive….and have owned # Saabs: 2003 9-3 SS till Saturday, then a 2006 A4 2.0T FSI quatro avant. 11 Saabs owned in 25 years. Still have a 2001 9-3SE 5dr 5sp

  Comments on the current Saab lineup:
  Saab promised bluetooth and technical superiority for the 9-3SS. The car never lived up to that in quality or reliability. I spent hundreds of hours on forums looking for solutions to problems GM techs could not diagnose or fix. And for that I gave you 42 grand ?

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist):
  A reliable, well priced AWD would get me back in the Saab fold.

  Something positive (not required, but recommended):
  Please.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 9:29 am
• Melvin said:
  

  located in Holland

  SAAB’s Future: I want a huge GT Estate of approx 5,1m. For decades the Range Rover has been one of the styliest offerings in the car industry, but in this SUV-era things change. It has to be exceptional roamy, comfortable, safe and versatile. Nice features appropriate to an active, but relaxed lifestyle -that also clearly offset them from regular estates- should be present. On the STS underpinnings?

  I want a new interpretation of the 92. This car should make people more aware of SAAB history and aviation heritage. Do it different as VW did with the NB; better usabilty and less fashion item. On design: I like the blend accomplished with the Aero8.

  I don’t want a new Sonett. Tiny sportcars have the ability to hurt an image of solidity and even quality. I consider them to frivolous and to ephemeral for the SAAB brand. Furthermore it is a bit to much a niche in an already niche called ‘SAAB’.

  I am happy with three generations of great Sonetts.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 9:32 am
• Derek Saunders said:
  

  Location: USA
  I drive a 9-3 SAAB 9-3. I have owned 4 SAAB’s.
  The lack of a locking fuel door (removed after 2003 model year) and dealers’ inability to retrofit one or a locking gas cap is maddening. Even Kia and Hyundai have it. SAAB is worse that Kia in this respect! Fix it!

  -September 29th, 2005 at 9:49 am
• Shahid Khan said:
  

  If you could make the Saabs like they used to be made, i dont mean in Sweden, i mean by feel and build quality and character, nobody believes the GM 900 is better then the original 900s made by Saab soi why make something that is not as good, a pointless move sideways and even backwards and you keep stepping back.

  You can not beat the Japanese engineers, you cant beat the German Performance you have made Saab a interlooper, not really anything but weird, you havent made them with ground breaking MPG or new technologies, your just putting together generic cars for the masses to make a quick buck.

  You can spin it anyway you like but at the end of the day nobody with believe you want to make Saabs the best they can be, because there not as much profit in there for you.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 11:28 am
• Paul Mills said:
  

  2003 9.3 Arc w/ Launch package
  First Saab

  Current line up is good but a 9.3 wagon would have been nice.

  Future: build a car that is reliable and has features that are at least as good as the competition.

  The car handles great, is fun to drive and gets great gas mileage. I really like the way the bike rack mounts.

  Now the bad, the steering column has been replaced twice (7k and 50,100 miles), multiple rattles, transmission software problems, and recently a rear main seal oil leak (56k miles). The build quality on this car is so low the jokes aren’t even funny anymore.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 12:21 pm
• J Scott said:
  

  Location: Hampton Roads, Virginia

  I currently drive a 2004 9-3 Aero–my first Saab

  I don’t like the 9-2 overall. Its interior lookes very cheap and the body just doesn’t say buy me. Manufacture your own body like the 9-3X. Make a 9-2X and bring on the 9X. The 9-7 looks like a Saab but its a Trailblazer that is not blazing any trails for me. This is not the 90s Rebadge My Ride. I said that first. I hope it sells for you though. I think I read where you have a body of your own later. That is the right thing to do. I love my Aero.

  Put more effort in Saab commercials highlighting features. Look at the CTS and STS commercials. Look at the new Acura RL noting its ReAxs-like steering. Maybe you do and I haven’t seen the commercial yet. They are highlighting performance and features. All we have is the “state of independence.” Make it something to remember. If you are giving it more power show it. Showcase it on the Neubering in Germany or Route 66 in California. Bring on the X Saabs. Love my 9-3 Aero.
  ** Here is a commercial for you: Day light. 9-3 1/4 mile up ahead. Pull in close to the rear of the vehicle. Black Aero of course. Pan from rear to left of car and around to the driver’s side. Sun is going down. Cut to inside of car with that beatiful green-lit display. Press the night panel display. You complete the rest.

  Wishlist: Make it possible for us with analog telephone systems to upgrade to the OnStar digital system.

  Plus up the amp for the rear 6 X 9 speakers on future models.

  Make the rear end of the car so its unmistakably SAAB. So we no its a 9-3 from a distance. The front too. Like the 9-3X

  Put a thicker coat of paint on the sheetmetal. Mine is washing off on the ends of the license plate light assembly where it fits on the trunk.

  Stop wasting money on rebadging. That money could go to securing your future car sales with us that want to make use of our 2003-2004 car phones and increasing the power to the rear speakers and mud guards for the Aero to name just a few.

  Something Positive: I love my car and everyone else who asks me what it is. Make the next model change better but close to 2004.

  I would like to have a 9-3X. That car is gorgeous. You’re on the right track. Release it before 2008. “When Saab designers are giving the opportunity to let their imaginations soar, the results can be breath-taking.” Concept Vehicles Site

  Get the engineers imaginations to soar. Wait. Get the engineers to understand what we want not what they think we want.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 4:53 pm
• Daniel Åhsman said:
  

  Name: Daniel Åhsman
  Location: Skövde, Sweden

  I currently drive a Saab 9-5 Aero Sportwagon and a Saab 9000 CC.

  Saab 9-2X: A terrible mastake that was meant to be a quick solution for increased number of models, but introducing a Trabant to the Saab line-up would also have increased the number of models, but the buyers wuoldn´t have bought it anyway. Take it of the market!

  Saab 9-3:
  A good car with needs a facelift soon with more agressive looks. The new wagon seems to be a truely good car but it is a shame that the Volvo V50 has got better road handling! 4WD-please! Saab was supposed to be a sporty car, than why is the Volvo hotter on the road and the Saab more like an Opel. If I want an Opel I will not pay for a 9-3 and get a car that is equally good as a Vectra. MORE PREMIUM!

  Saab 9-5
  A car that should have been changed by now. I love my own, but when I test other cars as the Audi A6 or the Volvo V70, BMW 5-series, the 9-5 feels old. I truely like the new facelift, but it still looks like an old car to me. Only 4-cylinder engines and front wheel drive seems like a waste on a car in this segment. Definately NOT premium compared to Audi for instance.
  I am supposed to change car now and I´ll will probably not buy a Saab again since the 9-5 is to old and I want a car in this size.
  Shame, but it will praobably be an Audi A6 2,8 instead.

  Saab 9-7 X:
  Just glad it´s not for sale in Europe. Probably a good car but I would buy the Chevy instead of paying these money for the same car… It looks as if There´s a Saab sticker to the front to make it look like a Saab. NOT nice at all. Same with the fender-plastic-covers to make it a round hole. Why not make them in pressed paper…?
  No, give the market a 9-6X with a lot of Saab-engineering, roadability, design and market friendly. Don´t mind sharing the architecture with Subaru, but if I want a Subaru, I´ll byu one. NOT a Saab. And I will certainly NOT buy a Saab that looks like a Subaru or Chevy , whatever…

  Comments on proposed future Saabs:

  NEW 9-2X: MORE Saab, less Subaru. I don´t mind a small car at all, but make it Premium like the BMW 1-series if you want it to sell… Turbo/V6 fun to drive. Diesel engines,

  NEW 9-3:
  Better roadability. I KNOW it is good, but is has to get better to take marketing from Audi/BMW/Volvo etc. MORE premium. Engines approx like now

  Saab 9-4X:
  Small version of a 9-6X with 5 and 3-doors. ALOT tougher than the 9-6X! Big wheels, samllest engine 150hp. up to V6 range. Fun to drive and good in the terrain.

  Saab 9-5:
  NEW model! Not neccisarily bigger but wider axis-distance for better roadability and inner dimensions. Engine range from 170hp 4 cylinder 2,3 litre circa -to V8 4 litre. Front whell drive on smaller engines. 4WD on V6/V8-models.
  MORE luxurious and individual. MORE Premium. Luxurious design but still sporty and dynamic. Lightweight engines.

  Saab 9-6X:
  See above. Better than the Volvo XC90. Cheaper than the Touareg and X5.

  Saab 9-7X:
  NO MORE…

  Saab 9-8
  Bigger than 9-5. Only V6´s and V8´s. Only 4WD. Turbocharged, luxurious and beautiful, still dynamic design. A true Premium Audi A8, BMW 7series killer!

  Saab 9X
  A sportscar, coupe and convertible, Only V6 turbocharged. 4WD. FUN TO DRIVE. Agressive, cool,

  Something positive:
  I find it great to take parts from GM and share parts between the brands as long as it doesn´t show and doesn´t have a consequence to the function or image of the car. The reason of different brands has to be that each and every buyer has to deside for him/herself what they want to pay money for right? If I want SAAB to be premium than I´m prepared to pay for a premium car. I WILL NOT Pay for a premium car and get a labeled Opel or Subaru with appearent visible Chevy details! Tha I will take my money and buy a BMW or an Audi/Mercedes. I love the fact that there are new models coming but they have to be true and good to sell me one.

  -September 29th, 2005 at 11:47 pm
• Jakob Jorgensen said:
  

  Name: Jakob Jorgensen
  Location:Connecticut

  We are now a two Saab family. My wife got the 2003 9-3ss two years ago and it has been a wonderful car! We where down to two cars at that point the BMW 325 and the 9-3. We test drove both and found the 9-3 more fun to drive!!(I was suprised as I expected to like the 325). So when it was time to replace my car (i needed more space) we test drove a 2005 9-5 sportwagon and fell in love with it. The more I drive it the more I like it!

  I hope that the next generation 9-5 will remain true to Saab. You did a great job on the 9-3 and hope you will keep that in mind for the new 9-5. It should remain FWD as Saabs have always been. The interior needs to say Saab, there should be no question that it is anything else (same goes for the exterior). I don’t want to see a chevrolet radio, but do want to see a saab radio. This is your premium european brand, lets keep it that way. Look to past Saabs as inspiration. Let Saab be Saab!!

  Again we love our two Saabs and look forward to future Saabs in the family.

  -September 30th, 2005 at 12:30 am
• doug fagen said:
  

  I just purchased my first Saab, a 9/5 Aero 2005.The car is fantastic,quick,handles well. My only problem is that the car is not as luxurious as it should be for the price. The 9/3 which is at a lower price point has more luxury.
  The 2006 models echo the same luxury issues as the 2005’s. Im thinking of trading in my 9/5 for the 2006 9/3
  I hope in the future Saab will improve the 9/5 to the point of it being its luxury sedan

  -September 30th, 2005 at 2:40 am
• Ignacio Lopez Barro said:
  

  Name: Ignacio Lopez Barro
  Location Monterrey, Mexico

  I currently drive a SAAB 93 TURBO, 2002 and have owned 0 # Saabs.

  Comments on the current Saab lineup:
  In Mexico only 93 and 95’s are sold (at least to my knowledge) Both cars are fantastic in their features and their looks. Although I could say that I still like a lot the look on my 2002.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs: Compared to other cars I have had this is by far the one that has costed more to maintain and given me more problems. Things such as Turbo failures, and electic parts. So for the future I would like to see a better built car.

  Something positive: Saefty features. Keep up the good work in this area.

  -September 30th, 2005 at 2:51 am
• Tom Lease said:
  

  Name: Tom Lease
  Location: Sacramento, California

  I currently drive a 2001 SAAB Aero SportWagon and have owned
  - 1989 900T
  -1991 900T convertible
  -1991 900SE convertible
  -1999 900SE - 5 door

  Comments on the current Saab lineup:

  I’ve tried to like the 9-2x but struggle with the strong Impreza roots. I have not seen but one or two on the road. I like the 9-3 and LOVE the lime green colour. I wish you offered that on more models. My 9-5 SportWagon is black but I’m wondering if the lime green would look nice w/black interior. Perhaps the colour pallet of SAAB needs revisiting.
  The 9-5 is an excellent car. I am SO glad to see SAAB is featuring gas mileage figures in print advertising. My 9-5 gets over 30 mpg highway at 75 mph with air conditioning on! All that with power, style and safety to boot, why drive anything else?
  The 9-7x is interesting. SAAB did a good job on the vehicle with the exception of the “getto” clear-lense taillights. Same goes with the new 9-3 Combi taillights. Lexus started that a few years back and now they’re back to red taillights as they’re intented to be. Do we want SAAB’s taillights to look like some lowered Honda with the huge tail pipe exhaust?
  I want SAAB to maintain it’s quirky roots. Every automotive journalist prefaces their SAAB review with “quirky” or something similar. I think that’s why many SAAB owners like that individuality. I too miss the “State of Independence” ad campaign. For that matter, I liked the “Find Your Own Road” with the animated characters both in print and video.
  I like SAAB’s website; especially with the cars of the future which seemingly are on-track with clean and cutting-edge design.
  The 2006 9-5 grill is an improvement and offers distinction. Don’t ever change the door panels in SAAB. I love them. I can’t stop looking at the contemporary design, tight fit and understated feel.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs: Designs look good but I am hopeful that there might be some thought given to the exhaust note. My ‘91 900T had such a lovely sound whereas my ‘01 9-5 Aero isn’t very SAABY sounding. Overall designs look quirky enough to get me back for another SAAB. I seem to like the philosophy of the 9-5 platform. SAAB’s sales brochures are the best!
  Something positive: I visited the SAAB Museum summer ‘04 and ANA SAAB, the international dealership for SAAB. I highly recommend visiting the museum and dealership (factory was closed at time of visit due to Summer Solstice). The pride of ownership is underscored at the attention-to-detail of the museum and the professionalism of the dealership and staff. The SAAB boutique at the dealership was like a candy store for a kid!
  Thank you GM for saving SAAB. You can grow your customer-base by sticking to the uniqueness of the brand and perhaps profiling the kind of people that buy SAABs.
  This website is a testimonial to the passionate autofiles you’ve captured.

  -September 30th, 2005 at 3:55 am
• Dave M. said:
  

  Name. Dave M.
  Location. Richmond, Virginia USA

  I currently drive: a 1997 Saab 900SE. It’s the only Saab I’ve owned.

  On the current Saab lineup: The 9-3 is a beautiful sedan, no question. Two (or is it three) years after its launch, the 9-3 is still the best-looking sports sedan out there (perhaps it helps that Audis are getting uglier?). Thrilled with the Sport Combi; it’s a great car that will reitierate Saab brand values of practicality & performance. The 9-5 sedan and wagon refresh looks nice (I’ve read some criticism of the front end, but I love the new grille AND the rear lights) - but I’m eager for the real next generation to arrive. With a new BMW 5-series and a new Audi A6 out there already, Saab needs to step on the gas, so to speak.

  Enough has been said about the 9-2x and the the 9-7x - clearly, these were cynical cars that degraded the brand. Shame on Saab/GM for bungling the Saab SUV after Volvo and BMW had both done it so well and so logically (the XC-90 and X-5 were both developed quickly from existing Volvo & BMW platforms, and neither one angered customers).

  Comments on proposed future Saabs: Saab needs a sports car. Make it a roadster (don’t call it the Sonnet, though - that name sounds too fey and harmless) and make it LOOK UNIQUE. Remember the “halo effect” of the Audi TT (which is built on…gasp…a VW GOLF chassis). Economize on platform sharing if you must (build it on the Solstice/Sky frame) but NOT ON DESIGN.

  Also - and I think I’m the first to suggest this - what about a long-wheelbase version of the 9-5, for executives? Call it the 9L, and market it to embassies, etc. It could occupy a nice middle ground between the affordable-but-outdated Lincoln town cars favored in the USA, and the flawless-but-freakishly expensive A8, S-class, 7-series, and XJ saloons you see in Britain.

  And of course, let’s see hybrids, diesels, and all-wheel-drive here in gas-guzzling America. THE MARKET IS READY FOR IT.

  Something positive: I love my Saab. The longer I drive it, the MORE I like it. I love the wraparound cockpit and the roominess (I’m 6′2″, and can’t stand the Audi A4 because my head scrapes the ceiling, or damn near). I love that everything in my 900SE is USEFUL (except the worthless cup holder, but you fixed that already). I like the turbo, the hustle I get from just 185 hp.

  I admire what Saab did with the new-generation 9-3. You took what was once a “quirky” car and brought it closer to the mainstream. NOT the mainstream of ALL drivers, but the mainstream of drivers looking for European-style sport sedans. Frankly, that’s a great mainstream to be in. People who drive Audis & BMWs & Acuras & Infinitis are, by and large, people who actually give a damn about how a car performs - these are my kind of people.

  Of course, now that Saab is in, or approaching, the consideration set, it needs to be flawless. No excuses just because Saab was once a tiny company in Trollhattan. No free passes just because Saabs are known for being “different.” If “different” means you can’t handle S-curves as well as a G35, then different sucks. Saab is playing in a different league now and it needs to play to WIN, not just to keep up.

  The crazy thing is, a lot of us believe you can actually do it.

  -September 30th, 2005 at 4:13 am
• Miguel Carvalho said:
  

  Name - Miguel Carvalho
  Location - Coimbra / PORTUGAL

  I currently drive a 9-3 SS Aero Cabrio and have owned 2 Saabs.

  Comments on the current Saab lineup
  > the brand is growing, you can easily see that, keeping a heavy presence on the Premium/High Premium market altough a medium hatchback to fifht the BMW 1-Series/Audi A3 would be most welcome.

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist)
  > it’s kind of urgent to strength the presence in the regular Saab market with good quality & desireable cars, then step by step increase the range: SUV / Coupe / … somehow like any BIG brand does, i.e. BMW, MB, Audi just to mention a few. It’s far better to be small but reaaly good on what you do then to spread around and be just average.. like GM is doing with Saab!

  Something positive (not required, but recommended)
  > brand image seems to regain some lost strongness and probably the best asset Saab still holds are the faithful costumers that keep forgiving many mistakes from the brand.

  -September 30th, 2005 at 7:17 am
• andy barnwell said:
  

  Andy Barnwell
  Nassington Peterborough UK
  current 93 SS ,99 and two classic 900s also 93 sportwagon on order. Previously owned classic 900, and two 95s.

  Current Saab line up - Saab 93 ss and wagon, good

  Saab 95 needs replacing. Cannot comment on facelift until I’ve seen it in the steel though I’m not sure about the new front end. I think I will probably like it better when I’ve seen it. Saab 92 - I’ve never liked this car, it was too blatantly badge-engineered.
  Saab 97 - this too is clearly badge engineering and although is useful as a stopgap this policy should not be continued.
  Saab 96x - this looks to me like more badge engineering. I find it difficult to believe that Saab had any meaningful input into the basi architecture and as such is essentially a Subaru Tribeca. Hopefully it can be made to look significantly different inside and out.

  Comments on future Saabs:
  94x - although this appears to be based on the S3X architecture it appears that the interior and body panels will be unique to Saab. This seems better to me. I accept the need for component sharing such as common electrical architecture and transmission, engine and suspension and basic platform like Volkswagen Audi. However as with VAG cars much may be shared but the final product quite different and my hope is that this is the future direction for Saab. As for production outside Sweden it is a fact of life in the automotive industry that production costs in the west are becoming too expensive. Though I would like to see Swedish production continue it is more important that design and engineering development work stays in Sweden and production takes place where the product can be made profitably. If this makes it possible for future Saabs to look unique inside and out then I think it is a necessary evil as long as Sweden controls design, engineering,quality and marketing globally.

  I am also concerned about GMs plans for Cadillac globally. I cannot help thinking that GMs longterm policy is to replace Saab with Cadillac. I will never be a Cadillac customer.

  Something positive - I was relieved and delighted at the news that Saab will retain its own design centre at Pixbo near Goteborg. This was definitely the right decision and hopefully is a sign that GM at last has the right idea on how to manage Saab. I hope Simon Padian and his colleagues can produce from GMs parts bin some innovative distinctive and inspiring new Saab designs. Here’s hoping this is a new and long future for this wonderful brand.

  -September 30th, 2005 at 7:23 am
• Tom said:
  

  Minnesota

  I currently own a 9-5. An excelent car. I have owned a 900 in the past. I had 250k miles when I traded it in. It still ran great and probably made some one very happy.

  I feel the 9-3 and 9-5 are both fine cars. My next car will most likely be one of these cars. I appreciate the fact that I can buy a Saab and know that I will have very little trouble with it. That is not the feeling I get when I buy from other car makers.

  Being from the midwest where there is an abundance of E85 fuel. I would pay a small premium to get the new Bio-powered car. I think most Saab owners, given the opportunity for a car with more power and less reliance on oil, would also like to see this car in the states. If your goal is the create excitement for the brand and increase sales beyond the hard core Saab buyer then this is one way to do that.

  -September 30th, 2005 at 8:08 am
• Robert Harrod said:
  

  My name is Robert Harrod.
  I live in Suffolk England.
  I drive a 9-3 sportwagon Lpt Vector Sport.
  I have owned a 9-3 Lpt Se 5dr and a
  9-3 Vector Sport Saloon.

  When each year model change takes place you
  have to read the spec sheets to find out whats been taken away as well as whats new, centre rear head restraint, head lamp wash, I pod socket. Also Saab took away the ash tray’s thats fine but were do my kids put the sweet wrapers, in the map pockets!.
  I notice on the new 95 the heater controls have moved to rotory, I think it’s easyer to see and ajust the digital at a glance, I like to keep my eye’s on the road.
  On future Saab’s I just hope that we continue to be able to buy good quality, safe and secure cars at a reasonable price.
  Under the Something positive banner I just want to say Saab ownership is the best thing ever, from the time of order to departure.

  -September 30th, 2005 at 4:36 pm
• Chris Arendall said:
  

  Name: Chris Arendall

  Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina (USA)

  I (well, my wife) currently drive: 2001 9.5 Aero Wagon

  Comments on the current Saab lineup: Unfortunately, I think the entire lineup is in need of an overhaul. The 9.3 and 9.5 are decent vehicles (the 9.5 being the better of the two), but they are sorely lacking when it comes to competing with other “upscale” brands. The 9.2x had potential, but I believe GM dropped the ball on making it a Saab. The 9.7x is, again, a nice try, and even though it does distiguish itself from the other GMT360-derived offerings, it still doesn’t really seem like a Saab. Judgement is reserved for the 9.6x…

  Comments on proposed future Saabs (or your wishlist): Here’s where things get tricky — do you continue to use mediocre platforms to base “near-luxury” vehicles on (especially a brand GM is attempting to “resurrect”), or turn to the best of what your corporation has to offer? Here is my take on how future Saabs should be built:

  9.1 or 9.9 — Based on the Y platform, more of a Saab “supercar.” Make it a little more upscale than the Vette, but not as much as the XLR. Same engine lineup.

  9.2/x or 9.1 — Make this the new Sonnet the “Saabists” are clamoring for. Based on the Kappa platform, make it R or AWD, 2+2 fastback — not a compact wagon like the current 9.2x. Current 2.0t engine providing the power through a 6-speed gearbox, a-la the previous 9.3 Vector/Aero.

  9.3/x — Based on the Sigma/II platform, change this puppy to R or AWD so it can better compete with the likes of BMW, Mercedes, and Infiniti. Similar to the CTS as f