x2 on the demographic. How is Saab supposed to make changes for someone that isn’t really a potential customer. I hate to say it , but if a non-saab loyalist has more money to spend, then I’m sure they’d rather have it appeal to them?

a Turbo-X Combi version???

thanks a lot for the pic you gangster

http://www.bilsport.se/bildarkiv/99/s_46e52ad502082.jpg

I may be wrong, but my understanding from what I’ve read is that Saab doesn’t insinuate the Turbo X is supposed to be the pinnacle of what they offer.

They did state, however, that it is designed to be the very best they will put out in terms of a sporty, driver-focused car. That’s what the point of this car is as I understand it, and I respect that. Well, that and they’re celebrating the anniversary of Saab’s turbocharging history- hence the tweaks that are throwbacks to the days of yore…not to say it’s really supposed to literally be the next 900 Turbo or anything. And that’s a separate thing on its own…

Now, I agree with others in that there are a few things I personally would change (ideally speaking) to make this project even better:

1. Add other colors besides black (perhaps too costly since it’s a limited offering?)
2. Hit that magical 300hp benchmark- it may not make a huge difference in real-life but at least a symbolic feeling nonetheless. It’d be good to have.
3. I’d probably tweak that rear diffuser somehow, but I can also live with it.

Let’s put it this way and come from this angle: the updated 9-3 has been described as “the car the 9-3 should have been from the start.” So take that, including the improved overall design and the needed noise reduction package. Now add the coming XWD. And improve the interior quality to look more- well, just better. And more comfy/bolstering seats. How are any of those things bad??

And lastly make the improvments to the boost and turbo config, and upgrade the suspension and brakes. Not perfect, but more performance and road-holding from a Saab is always welcome in my book!

And that’s what we have. I’d have to respectfully disagree in opinion- I’m not “underwhelmed” with those changes. Besides, it sounds like a good throwback to decent milestones of the past, and a smaller attempt to do the Viggen-style product niche right (as the press apparently slammed it when it came out; “t-steer” term comes to mind). And so my conclusion has to be at least respect. Even though I’d like to change it up a bit, I still think they did it right. Now personally, subjectively speaking, If I had the money, would I myself buy a Turbo X? Yes, in a heartbeat. I could understand why some would not, however. I really think it comes down to the demographic and the bottom line for why that demographic is purchasing the car.

One side note to all- it’s easy to voice our opinions but Saab has to appeal primarily to those with the dough to buy the new cars. And I must admit I’m not one of them, FWIW. I will seriously consider a used Turbo X if one crosses my path in the future, however.

I must mention and agree with Swade’s prediction some time ago- this is going to sell very quickly. In fact, I really would like to see a couple years’ worth of production like the Viggen was, as I’d have a better shot of getting a hand on one later down the pike. Make that my fourth desired change, I guess.

The reason they are not talking about the original 99 Turbo is maybe because it was white…? “Heritage” is a nice word for the PR-people, if nothing else…