Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Saab cars headed to crusher, Trollhättan museum selling off 120 cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/saab-cars-headed-to-crusher-trollhattan-museum-selling-off-120/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/saab-cars-headed-to-crusher-trollhattan-museum-selling-off-120/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/saab-cars-headed-to-crusher-trollhattan-museum-selling-off-120/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab factory in Trollhatten

The future hopes of Saab seem to have been crushed under the weight of insolvency, and that's going to translate into reality as about 100 Saab cars lingering on the production lines are cubed up into scrap metal croutons. Unconfirmed rumors suggest that the vehicular carnage will ensue over the next 48 hours as the death rattle from Trollhättan gets ever louder.

Why squish a bunch of orphan cars? Autocar reports that the move is part of the receivership process. Headed for the gallows are cars finished before the money completely dried up, including some 9-4X crossovers and pre-production 9-5 Estates.

While the Saab museum is currently closed and facing an unclear future, Autocar reports a single 9-5 Estate is being kept around for later exhibition. That report would appear to conflict somewhat with word that Saab's 120-car museum collection is being liquidated. According to BringATrailer, bids are due to bankruptcy attorneys by this Friday, January 20, so if you're interested, get going. Brand fan site SaabsUnited has details, too, including how you might be able to have someone scrutinize your would-be purchase in-person.

Even in the land of the midnight sun, and despite the hopes of so many of the brand's fans, it looks like the last flicker of twilight coming from Saab has been nearly extinguished.

Saab cars headed to crusher, Trollhättan museum selling off 120 cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-4x9-59-5 sportcombisaabsaab 9-4xsaab 9-5 estatesaab 9-5 wagonsaab factorysaab museumsaab receivershiptrollhattentrollhättanTue, 17 Jan 2012 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149264/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/saab-cars-headed-to-crusher-trollhattan-museum-selling-off-120/20149264/article-detail.xml 20149264 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/saab-plant-trollhatten_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/saab-plant-trollhatten.jpg <![CDATA[GM moves to sever ties with Saab over Chinese owner concerns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/gm-moves-to-sever-ties-with-saab-over-chinese-owner-concerns/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/gm-moves-to-sever-ties-with-saab-over-chinese-owner-concerns/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/gm-moves-to-sever-ties-with-saab-over-chinese-owner-concerns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab and GM dealership signage

Spitting out the equivalent of "No soup for you," General Motors has made stronger noises about shutting Saab off from its technology and component pipeline and the new 9-4X, due to the Swedish company's proposed takeover by Chinese firms Pang Da and Youngman. While the GM statement didn't appear to make a definitive statement of walking away, it did say "GM will not agree to the continuation of the existing technology licenses or the continued supply of 9-4X vehicles to Saab following the proposed change in ownership as it would not be in the best interests of GM shareholders."

The mere fact of the Chinese accessing GM technology is obviously part of it, but this would also involve a Chinese competitor - not a joint-venture partner - ingesting a steady stream of GM's current and ongoing platforms and engineering. Since GM's shareholdings mean it needs to approve a Saab sale, the latest arrangement looks like it's going to take some reworking to come to fruition.

Saab CEO Victor Muller saying "We go back to the drawing board" is admitting that GM's stance all but unravels the Chinese agreement to purchase Saab and provide $850 million in long-term funding. We aren't entirely sure what Muller can do when he gets there: the Chinese are the only suitors on the board, no one knows if they even have government approval yet, and GM is the only company that can keep Saab in products without it costing a lot more than $850 million. But Muller's kept the ball in the air this long, we won't be the ones to count him out yet.

GM moves to sever ties with Saab over Chinese owner concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-4xgeneral motorsgmpang dasaab chinaswanswedish automobilevictor mulleryoungmanTue, 08 Nov 2011 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20100986/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/08/gm-moves-to-sever-ties-with-saab-over-chinese-owner-concerns/20100986/article-detail.xml 20100986 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/saab-and-gm-dealer-signs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/saab-and-gm-dealer-signs.jpg <![CDATA[Saab 9-4X production underway, only Saab currently being built]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/21/saab-9-4x-production-underway-only-saab-currently-being-built/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/21/saab-9-4x-production-underway-only-saab-currently-being-built/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/21/saab-9-4x-production-underway-only-saab-currently-being-built/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Saab 9-4X
2011 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Production of the all-new 2011 Saab 9-4X crossover has started on schedule, despite the company's crippling financial woes. While production of the rest of the Saab lineup at its Trollhattan, Sweden plant has ground to a cash-strapped halt, 9-4Xs are rolling off the assembly lines in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico.

The plant producing the latest Saab is under contract to the Swedes from GM, and with any luck will help jumpstart a recovery. Under its very Swedish skin, the Saab 9-4X packs the same underpinnings as the 2011 Cadillac SRX.

The base model, which comes with a 265-hp 2.8-liter V6, starts at $33,380, with the top-whack, turbocharged model ringing the register at $48,010. Ominously for Saab, the 300-hp mill is the same engine Cadillac just pulled from the SRX lineup to deal with reliability issues.

Saab 9-4X production underway, only Saab currently being built originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 May 2011 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 cadillac srx2011 saab 9-4x9-4xcadillaccrossovergeneral motorsgmmexicosaabsrxswedentrollhattanSat, 21 May 2011 16:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19946518/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/21/saab-9-4x-production-underway-only-saab-currently-being-built/19946518/article-detail.xml 19946518 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2011-saab-94x-lead-1305985721_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2011-saab-94x-lead-1305985721.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Saab 9-4X]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/2011-saab-9-4x-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/2011-saab-9-4x-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/2011-saab-9-4x-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Against The Odds, Saab's First Crossover Comes Good

2011 Saab 9-4X
2011 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

As we assembled media and executives sat down to dinner in Washington, D.C. the night before driving the 2011 Saab 9-4X, a waiter leaned over my shoulder with a bottle of sparkling water and poured it into a waiting rocks glass filled with ice and a lemon. He paused, staring intently at my glass. Clearly flummoxed, the dinner service ground to a halt. "May I, sir?" As I had no earthly idea what was troubling him, I nodded. "Certainly." He picked up the glass, reached into its mouth and fished out the lemon only to squeeze it with much theater. The wedge yielded but a drop or two of juice. "Dry!" he pronounced with a mixture of pride and embarrassment. Perhaps reading the confusion on my face, he followed this proclamation by saying "You can 'ell becooze.... it was... ah.... reluctant to float." He then disappeared into the back of the restaurant for what seemed like minutes, reemerging with a new glass filled with ice and a noticeably plumper wedge of citrus riding atop the rim of the glass.

You just never know what's going to hold up a car launch.

Stick around in this business for a while, and you'll see how labor unrest, cash crunches, bad mergers and natural disasters can wreak havoc on a new automobile's gestation and production schedule. We thought we'd seen it all, but the poor folks at Saab are surely trying for some kind of record with the number of calamities threatening to scrap not just the launch of this 9-4X, but the Swedish brand altogether. In fact, this handsome looking crossover is already late to the party - it was originally slated to launch in 2009 alongside its General Motors' platform-mate, the Cadillac SRX.

Given the strong initial sales of the SRX, you might think that Saab's ownership expects big volume out of its first proper crossover (the late and not lamented 9-7X was an SUV and the 9-3X is little more than a wagon on stilts). But based on our conversations with company officials, not so much - they're looking to shift just 10,000 units globally in 2011 - a seemingly trifling sum until one looks at Saab's miserable sales figures worldwide. Continue reading...

Continue reading 2011 Saab 9-4X

2011 Saab 9-4X originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 May 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 saab 9-4x9-4xfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivesaabsaab 9-4x reviewsaab crossoverTue, 17 May 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19942075/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/17/2011-saab-9-4x-first-drive-review/19942075/article-detail.xml 19942075 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/08-2011-saab-9-4x-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/08-2011-saab-9-4x-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[First Saab 9-4X rolls off the assembly line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/16/first-saab-9-4x-rolls-off-the-assembly-line-in-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/16/first-saab-9-4x-rolls-off-the-assembly-line-in-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/16/first-saab-9-4x-rolls-off-the-assembly-line-in-mexico/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GM's Raymond J Chess and Saab CEO Jan ÅkeJonsson with the first Saab 9-4X
GM's Raymond J Chess and Saab CEO Jan Åke Jonsson w/Saab 9-4X No. 1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been little over a year since Saab unveiled the 9-4X at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, and now the first production example has left the assembly line.

Envisioned when Saab was still under the General Motors umbrella, the 9-4X is based on the same Theta platform as the Cadillac SRX. As such, it's being built not in Trollhättan, Sweden, like other Saabs, but in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico.

This first example - an Aero model in Ice Pearl metallic with the 2.8-liter turbo V6 and XWD - carries the chassis number 00001, and will be displayed at Saab's museum in Sweden - after it makes the media rounds, of course. While you're waiting for the 9-4X to hit U.S. dealers in May, check out our galleries below along with the official production announcement after the jump.


Gallery: Saab 9-4X chassis #00001


Gallery: 2012 Saab 9-4X

2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X

[Source: Saab]

Continue reading First Saab 9-4X rolls off the assembly line

First Saab 9-4X rolls off the assembly line originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-4xjan ake jonssonmexicoramos arizpesaabsaab 9-4xWed, 16 Feb 2011 17:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19847111/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/16/first-saab-9-4x-rolls-off-the-assembly-line-in-mexico/19847111/article-detail.xml 19847111 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/web630-94x-assembly_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/web630-94x-assembly.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Saab looking for 15-20k sales this year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/report-saab-looking-for-15-20k-sales-this-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/report-saab-looking-for-15-20k-sales-this-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/report-saab-looking-for-15-20k-sales-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab 9-4x
2012 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Saab Cars North America (barely) lived through a horrible 2010, with sales of only 5,445 units. For perspective, Toyota makes that many Camry sedans by Thursday of most weeks. Part of the problem, no doubt, was Saab's flirtation with oblivion and the resultant crippled supplier base and a lack of consumer awareness, but a lack of new product also played a big role.

Automotive News reports that Saab execs are assuring dealers that 2011 should turn out a lot better, with projected U.S. sales of between 15,000 and 20,000 units. That's a significant sales recovery, and at least part of the increased volume should come courtesy of a strengthening auto market. But increased sales alone won't enable 400 percent growth. Luckily, Saab has some new product in the pipeline, with the 9-4X crossover scheduled to arrive in May, while continued sales of the 9-5 sedan and the upcoming wagon variant (scheduled for Fall, 2011) should further boost the bottom line.

Will the 9-4X prove popular enough to move Saab over the sales hump? We don't doubt it, if only because the company's sales bogey is so low. And it helps that the 9-4X is attractive and poised to hit the market at a time when customers are clamoring over high-end CUVs.


Gallery: 2012 Saab 9-4X

2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Report: Saab looking for 15-20k sales this year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-4x9-4xsaabsaab 9-5 sportcombiThu, 10 Feb 2011 18:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19836221/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/10/report-saab-looking-for-15-20k-sales-this-year/19836221/article-detail.xml 19836221 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/01-saab-9-4x-630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/01-saab-9-4x-630opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Saab 9-4X priced from $34,205*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/06/2012-saab-9-4x-priced-from-34-205/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/06/2012-saab-9-4x-priced-from-34-205/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/06/2012-saab-9-4x-priced-from-34-205/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Saab 9-4X
2012 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2012 Saab 9-4X is set to join the automaker's shapely new 9-5 sedan at dealerships across the country in May, and we've now learned that cost of entry for the new Scandinavian crossover will be $34,205 (*plus including $825 in destination charges).

That $35K price point gets you the base 9-4X with front-wheel drive and the 3.0-liter direct-injected V6, good for 265 horsepower and roughly 20 miles per gallon (combined). Moving up the model range, the 9-4X Premium rings in at $38,075 plus including delivery. Premium models still use the same 3.0-liter mill, but XWD (Saab's all-wheel drive system) is available, as are a host of other goodies.

The range-topping 9-4X Aero is priced at $48,835, and it uses a 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 (like the 3.0-liter, it's General Motors-derived) that produces a healthy 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, mated exclusively to all-wheel drive. Based on our experiences with the 9-4X's sister car, the Cadillac SRX, the 2.8T powerplant is clearly the one to have. Even with the healthy increase in power, fuel economy is rated at an estimated 18 mpg combined.

Because the 9-4X shares the majority of its architecture with the SRX, it makes sense that pricing for the two crossovers won't be hugely different. The base SRX comes in at $33,830 - only $375 less than the Saab. What's more, the 2.8T-equipped SRX starts at $49,915, meaning the comparable Saab is actually $1,080 less than the GM crossover it spawned from, though obviously each has slightly differing levels of specification.

While we haven't yet driven the 9-4X, we don't imagine it will be too far removed from its Cadillac cousin. With prices that are this close, it really comes down to which you'd rather look at (or badge you'd rather have on the hood). The Cadillac buys you a luxurious piece of American crossover pie, while the Saab nets you nearly the same package in a shapely Scandinavian wrapper. Let us know which one you'd pick in Comments.


*UPDATE: Saab spokesperson Michele Tinson now clarifies that the above 9-4x pricing actually includes $825 in destination charges. We apologize for any confusion.

Gallery: 2012 Saab 9-4X

2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X

[Source: Saab]

2012 Saab 9-4X priced from $34,205* originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-4x9-4xsaabsaab 9-4x pricingsaab crossoverMon, 06 Dec 2010 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19747831/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/06/2012-saab-9-4x-priced-from-34-205/19747831/article-detail.xml 19747831 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/01-saab-9-4x-630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/01-saab-9-4x-630opt.jpg <![CDATA[A Conversation with Saab's Victor Muller and Jan-Ake Jonsson]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/01/a-conversation-with-saabs-victor-muller-and-jan-ake-jonsson/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/01/a-conversation-with-saabs-victor-muller-and-jan-ake-jonsson/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/01/a-conversation-with-saabs-victor-muller-and-jan-ake-jonsson/#commentsFiled under:

Victor Muller of Saab
Victor Muller, Saab Chairman and CEO of Spyker

The news Saab has been making in the past few months - the defection of its sales director, declining sales numbers, worker layoffs - runs counter to the feel-good story of the brand's very existence. On the other side of that, though, the brand is still here, there's a resurrected factory in Sweden still pumping out cars, Jason Castriota is still working on an anxiously anticipated 9-3, and the 9-4X - unveiled to general acclaim recently at the LA Auto Show - is just months away from retail.

That's a lot going on for such a small, and new, company. We sat down with Saab chairman Victor Muller and president Jan-Ake Jonsson to find out what makes the 9-4X a real Saab, how the 9-3 is progressing, and where the 9-2 and ePower rank on the company's to-do list.

Follow the jump for the story.

[Image: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty]

Continue reading A Conversation with Saab's Victor Muller and Jan-Ake Jonsson

A Conversation with Saab's Victor Muller and Jan-Ake Jonsson originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-29-39-4x9-5featuredjan-ake jonssonsaabvictor mullerWed, 01 Dec 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19722987/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/01/a-conversation-with-saabs-victor-muller-and-jan-ake-jonsson/19722987/article-detail.xml 19722987 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/victor-muller-saab-ceo-chairman_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/victor-muller-saab-ceo-chairman.jpg <![CDATA[Saab readies move into China and Russia, downplays 9-4X diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/23/saab-readies-move-into-china-and-russia-downplays-9-4x-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/23/saab-readies-move-into-china-and-russia-downplays-9-4x-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/23/saab-readies-move-into-china-and-russia-downplays-9-4x-diesel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Saab 9-4X
2012 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Saab CEO Jan-Åke Jonsson has provided the wayward Swedish brand with some direction, and the marching orders point out two very large markets for the sales team to focus on: Russia and China. According to a report in Automotive News, Saab will begin distribution in the Chinese market beginning sometime during the 2011 calendar year. Until the launch of the redesigned 9-3, Saab will shoot for a few thousand sales per year. Once the distribution network is in place and the model lineup is refreshed, Saab will look at the possibility of local manufacturing facilities.

Now that China is rolling forward, Saab can start to finalize decisions with regards to the Russian market. No deal has been announced, but one is expected to be made the end of the year. Saab's chairman, Victor Muller, specifically stated at the 2010 LA Auto Show that the both China and Russia are getting a taste of the recently unshackled Swedish brand.

One of the newest expressions of the automaker's freedom is the 2012 Saab 9-4X. Saab offers diesel engines outside of the North American market, and we were curious if this new crossover would also get an oil burner. Per Jonnson, it seems this is highly unlikely:
"If you then look at the life cycle of the vehicle, typically five or six years, before we actually have a diesel engine, we have to find one, we have to test it, we have to install it, validate it, and you are two years into the life cycle... and then you have a very short payoff period."
Understandable, but a bummer nonetheless.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4X

LA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4X

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeff Glucker / AOL

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Saab readies move into China and Russia, downplays 9-4X diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-4x9-4xchinajan ake jonssonJan-Åke JonssonrussiasaabSaab 9-4xsaab chinasaab russiavictor mullerTue, 23 Nov 2010 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19730434/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/23/saab-readies-move-into-china-and-russia-downplays-9-4x-diesel/19730434/article-detail.xml 19730434 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/12-2012-saab-9-4x_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/12-2012-saab-9-4x.jpg <![CDATA[Preorder Saab 9-4X, get a free iPad?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/22/preorder-saab-9-4x-get-a-free-ipad/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/22/preorder-saab-9-4x-get-a-free-ipad/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/22/preorder-saab-9-4x-get-a-free-ipad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Saab is giving the 500 people the chance to pre-order a Saab 9-4X with an Apple iPad thrown in once they take delivery of Trollhättan's latest. At the 9-4X pre-order site, you can register to have an area dealer get in touch with you. You'll be contacted in mid-January to set up an appointment and place your order for an iPad, which will cost you $500, plus tax. On top of that $500, you'll put a deposit down on the 9-4X as well - an amount to be determined by the dealer.

So where's the love, you ask? If you take delivery of the vehicle, Saab will discount the price of your vehicle deposit and the $500 price of that 16GB wifi iPad (which costs $499 at the Apple store). If you change your mind and don't take delivery, the dealer will refund the vehicle deposit and you get to keep the iPad... that you paid for. Either way, you lose nothing and you gain an iPad. If you don't want the iPad you can pre-order anyway if you're one of the first 500.

Got it? Good. The program runs from January 15 to February 28, 2011, so you have some time to work out the math and your iPad need. Or more precisely, you have until 500 other people get in line before you. Hat tip to Ben!


Gallery: LA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4X

LA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4X

 Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeff Glucker / AOL

[Source: Saab]

Preorder Saab 9-4X, get a free iPad? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-4xipadpre-orderSaab 9-4xMon, 22 Nov 2010 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19727740/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/22/preorder-saab-9-4x-get-a-free-ipad/19727740/article-detail.xml 19727740 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/saab-9-4x-ipad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/saab-9-4x-ipad.jpg <![CDATA[LA 2010: Saab 9-4X is another glimpse of good fortune for Trollhättan [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/17/2012-saab-9-4x-debut-la-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/17/2012-saab-9-4x-debut-la-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/17/2012-saab-9-4x-debut-la-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Saab 9-4X
LA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Saab is looking to move forward after its long relationship with General Motors. Saab CEO Victor Muller quoted Winston Churchill today at the LA Auto Show saying "If you're going through hell... keep going." Muller says that Saab has gone through hell and is seeing the light on the other side. The 2012 Saab 9-4X is the latest taste of what Saab now has in store for us.

2012 Saab 9-4XThe 9-4X takes aim at the luxury crossover segment and is prepared to do battle withs some heavies, such as the Audi Q5, Lexus RX and BMW X3. The Cadillac SRX platform-mate arrives chock full of upmarket goodness like eight-way power adjustable seats, Bluetooth connectivity and a tri-zone climate control system; all part of the standard features list.

The exterior styling stays true to what we see with the Saab 9-5 sedan, and clearly states that the vehicle comes from a line of sporty cars. To match this style, the under-hood offerings come in two spirited flavors: a naturally-aspirated 265-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 and a direct-injection, turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 that pumps out 300 hp. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox that feeds all four wheels through Saab's XWD system.

It wasn't just the 9-4X on the menu at the 2010 LA Auto Show. We learned that the 9-5 wagon is set to make its debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show next March, Saab is expanding distribution into China and Russia and all operations have officially been moved to Trollhättan. It's also the first time in Saab's history that the 9-3 convertible has been built on Swedish ground.

Hop the jump to find out more about the 2012 Saab 9-4X including a chance to watch the model's first commercial, and stay tuned for more from this now-independent Swedish automaker in the near future.


Gallery: LA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4X

LA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4XLA 2010: 2012 Saab 9-4X

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeff Glucker / AOL

[Source: Saab]

Continue reading LA 2010: Saab 9-4X is another glimpse of good fortune for Trollhättan [w/video]

LA 2010: Saab 9-4X is another glimpse of good fortune for Trollhättan [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 20:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 la auto show2012 saab 9-4x9-4xla auto showsaabWed, 17 Nov 2010 20:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19723125/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/17/2012-saab-9-4x-debut-la-2010/19723125/article-detail.xml 19723125 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/12-2012-saab-9-4x-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/12-2012-saab-9-4x-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: 2012 Saab 9-4X makes its digital debut ahead of LA Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/18/2012-saab-9-4x-revealed-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/18/2012-saab-9-4x-revealed-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/18/2012-saab-9-4x-revealed-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Saab 9-4X
2012 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Much like the 2010 9-5 sedan, the fate of Saab's 9-4X crossover hung in limbo during General Motors' sale of the Scandinavian automaker. Now that Saab is safely under the umbrella of Spyker Cars, the new 9-5 is trickling out on the road and we've just received the full host of images and data detailing the production-spec 9-4X, set to be publicly revealed at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show.

While the 9-4X's styling is clearly the evolution of Saab's Aero X concept, the Cadillac SRX provides much of the crossover's groundwork - this vehicle was wholly developed during the GM era, after all. This means that both the Caddy's 3.0-liter V6 (265 horsepower) and turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 (300 horsepower) are on hand in the 9-4X, mated to six-speed automatic transmissions. The base engine can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive, while the turbo engine is solely offered with Saab's torque-vectoring XWD all-wheel-drive system. Saab has also fitted its DriveSense adaptive chassis system to Aero models, which offers three different drive setups: Comfort, Sport and Eco.

The 9-4X's cabin is similar to what you'll find in the 9-5, with a cockpit-like, driver-focused center stack and a push-button ignition on the center console. If the Saab's cabin is anything like what GM has crafted for the SRX, things should be pretty luxurious, albeit with a sprinkling of quirky Scandinavian touches.

Look for the 9-4X to hit North American dealerships in May of next year with prices being announced closer to launch. For now, follow check out the images below and hit the jump for the full details in Saab's press release.


Gallery: 2012 Saab 9-4X

2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X2012 Saab 9-4X

[Source: Saab]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2012 Saab 9-4X makes its digital debut ahead of LA Show

Officially Official: 2012 Saab 9-4X makes its digital debut ahead of LA Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 la auto show2010 los angeles auto show2012 9-4x2012 saab 9-4x9-4x94xbreakingla auto showla auto show 2010los angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2010saabsaab 9-4xsaab crossoverMon, 18 Oct 2010 11:17:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19678212/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/18/2012-saab-9-4x-revealed-la-auto-show/19678212/article-detail.xml 19678212 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/94x630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/94x630.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Saab 9-4X leaks out ahead of production debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/28/spy-shots-saab-9-4x-leaks-out-ahead-of-production-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/28/spy-shots-saab-9-4x-leaks-out-ahead-of-production-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/28/spy-shots-saab-9-4x-leaks-out-ahead-of-production-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab 9-4X
Saab 9-4X spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now that the fate of Saab is in the hands of Spyker Cars, future product plans seem to be moving right along. The new 9-5 is out on the road and the 9-4X crossover is scheduled to make its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show this November.

Our friends at Saabs United managed to snag some shots of a pre-production 9-4X, giving us a glimpse of the automaker's new CUV before we see it in person later this year. The 9-4X was initially conceived under Saab's General Motors ownership, meaning its underpinnings are shared with the Cadillac SRX crossover. Word on the street is that the production taillamps will look slightly different than the ones on this early model, but that aside, don't expect things to change much between now and November.

Because the 9-4X is closely related to the SRX, we fully expect the 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 to be under the hood. Don't rule out the possibility of the 9-5's 2.0-liter turbo four being offered, as well. Both engines will more than likely be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and as the "x" in the name suggests, all-wheel drive will be on hand.

Until we get the official word in Los Angeles later this year, scroll through our gallery of spy shots below, and head over to Saabs United for all things Griffin.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Saab 9-4X


[Source: Saabs United]

Spy Shots: Saab 9-4X leaks out ahead of production debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 la auto show2010 los angeles auto show9-4xla auto showla auto show 2010los angeleslos angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2010saabsaab 9-4xTue, 28 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19652453/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/28/spy-shots-saab-9-4x-leaks-out-ahead-of-production-debut/19652453/article-detail.xml 19652453 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/94x630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/94x630.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Saab 9-4X confirmed for LA debut in November]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2012-saab-9-4x-confirmed-for-la-debut-in-november/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2012-saab-9-4x-confirmed-for-la-debut-in-november/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2012-saab-9-4x-confirmed-for-la-debut-in-november/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab 9-4X Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've been expecting this announcement to come sooner or later, though we didn't exactly count on it coming from the LA Auto Show's own Twitter page. But there it is anyway, straight from the horse's mouth: "Saab has confirmed that the 9-4X Crossover will make its world debut at the LA Auto Show this Nov."

We're also expecting some sort of official word that the new crossover 'ute, which will share its Theta Premium underpinnings with the Cadillac SRX, should hit the market sometime in the spring of 2011... perhaps around April.

While we're on the subject of expectations, we'd also imagine that Saab will offer its premium crossover with the same powerplants as the recently released 9-5, which means we could see a 2.0-liter turbocharged four and a 2.8-liter turbocharged six, both likely mated with a six-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. We'll apparently find out for sure soon enough.


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept


[Source: LA Auto Show's Twitter]

2012 Saab 9-4X confirmed for LA debut in November originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 la auto show2010LaAutoShow9-49-4 x9-4Xbreakingbreaking newsbreakingnewsla auto showla auto show 2010LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2010los angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2010LosAngelesAutoShowLosAngelesAutoShow2010SaabSaab 9-4xSaab9-4xTue, 17 Aug 2010 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19597456/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/17/2012-saab-9-4x-confirmed-for-la-debut-in-november/19597456/article-detail.xml 19597456 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/saab-9-4x-new_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/saab-9-4x-new.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Saab talking to BMW about using Mini platform for new 9-2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/report-saab-talking-to-bmw-about-using-mini-platform-for-new-9/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/report-saab-talking-to-bmw-about-using-mini-platform-for-new-9/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/report-saab-talking-to-bmw-about-using-mini-platform-for-new-9/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



When Saab first showed the 9-X Biohybrid concept at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, it was expected to evolve into a production model based on General Motors' compact Delta architecture which forms the foundation of the Opel Astra and Chevrolet Cruze. Now that Saab is owned by Spyker Cars, CEO Victor Muller is reportedly looking for a new platform partner in Munich.

According to Swedish daily Dagens Industri, Saab is negotiating with BMW about getting access to the Mini architecture for a new 9-2 model to slot in underneath the 9-3. Before the teardrop-shaped runabout can become a reality, Saab needs to successfully launch both the 9-5 sedan and the 9-4x crossover.

There is no word yet on whether Muller is said to be in exclusive talks with BMW, or if Muller and Co. are in discussions with other automakers about supplying platforms and parts for the planned supermini. For its part, news agency Reuters quotes a unnamed BMW spokesman as saying "We are in talks with several interested parties who have interest in our technology... there are no contracts with Saab at the moment."

The 9-4x, which shares its platform with the Cadillac SRX, is expected to finally launch early next year. But for the model to be successful in Europe, it will need to have a diesel engine option, and Dagens Industri is also reporting that BMW could also provide engines options, although that could be more problematic. The 9-4x has a transverse mounted powertrain, but all of BMW's engines are longitudinally arrayed, which would require significant re-engineering. A tip of the hat to William!


[Source: Reuters]

Report: Saab talking to BMW about using Mini platform for new 9-2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-29-4xminimini coopermini platformMiniCooperMiniPlatformSaabsaab 9-2saab 9-3Saab 9-4xsaab 9-5Saab 9-XSaab 9-X BioHybridsaab 9-x biohybrid c...Saab 9-X BioHybrid Conceptsaab bmw minisaab bmw partnershipsaab ninety-twoSaab9-2Saab9-3Saab9-4xSaab9-5Saab9-xSaab9-xBiohybridSaab9-xBiohybridC...Saab9-xBiohybridConceptSaabBmwMiniSaabBmwPartnershipSaabNinety-twoteardrop saabTeardropSaabFri, 11 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19512419/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/11/report-saab-talking-to-bmw-about-using-mini-platform-for-new-9/19512419/article-detail.xml 19512419 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/ursaab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/ursaab.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Saab 9-5 sales will start in U.S. in the second quarter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/report-saab-9-5-sales-will-start-in-u-s-in-the-second-quarter/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/report-saab-9-5-sales-will-start-in-u-s-in-the-second-quarter/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/report-saab-9-5-sales-will-start-in-u-s-in-the-second-quarter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Coming to a Saab Spyker dealer near you by Spring - Click above for high-res image gallery

We had an interesting chat with a Saab mechanic in Hollywood yesterday. Naturally, he was overcome with great joy over the fact that Spyker saved Saab. What made the conversation interesting was his asking us if there will be a 2010 Saab 9-5? Dunno. Er, didn't know. But that was then. Today we feel pretty confident that there will not be a 2010 Saab 9-5. kind of exactly how there's no 1983 Corvette, minus the haggard sales saga.

However, according to a report by Edmunds Auto Observer, there will in fact be a 2011 Saab 9-5. Spyker is set to ramp up production of the new car in April and begin selling Saabs to us American types at some point during the second quarter. Did we say Saabs? We meant to say Saab Spykers, as the new cars may be called. Regardless, anything introduced to the market during May or June of a given year will be labeled as next year's model. Hence, the 2011 Saab Spyker 9-5.

The Auto Observer is also confirming that the Saab (Spyker) 9-4 will also go on sale at some unspecified future date. The 9-4 and 9-4X are based on General Motors' Theta Premium architecture - the same platform used by the Cadillac SRX. Since so much parts sharing will be going on (the 9-5 will come with at least three General Motors engines), GM will continue supplying parts to Saab Spyker for many moons, and as such have a vested interest in the new company doing well. Not too well of course, as Saab will now be free to compete head-to-head with GM brands Buick and/or Cadillac.

One last thing, and this is a plea from our Saab mechanic friend more then anything else: here's hoping Saab Spyker has the good sense to remount Saab motors longitudinally and backwards, rather than sideways, especially when a new 9-3 shows up, as that set up really is a trait of the Griffin.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: Auto Observer]

Report: Saab 9-5 sales will start in U.S. in the second quarter originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 9-52011 Saab 9-520119-52011Saab9-59-49-4X9-5General MotorsGeneralMotorsGMSaabSaab 9-4Saab 9-4XSaab 9-5Saab SaleSaab SpykerSaab9-4Saab9-4xSaab9-5SaabSaleSaabSpykerSpykerWed, 27 Jan 2010 16:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19333864/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/27/report-saab-9-5-sales-will-start-in-u-s-in-the-second-quarter/19333864/article-detail.xml 19333864 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/griffin630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/griffin630.jpg <![CDATA[Saab 9-5 <em>and</em> 9-4X in low-volume production?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/25/saab-9-5-and-9-4x-in-low-volume-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/25/saab-9-5-and-9-4x-in-low-volume-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/25/saab-9-5-and-9-4x-in-low-volume-production/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab 9-4X Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

The question of whether General Motors will go ahead and sell Saab to Spyker seems no closer to getting a real-life answer today after newly self-appointed GM CEO Ed Whitacre held a press conference without naming a new owner for the troubled Swedish automaker. Perhaps then, reports of Saab's production numbers offer a renewed glimmer of hope for Saabophiles the world over?

According to Automotive News and its DealerTrack report for the week of January 23rd, in addition to a small number of 2010 9-5 sedans, Saab produced 49 new 9-4X crossovers last week, bringing the total number of completed units to 147. Wait a second, when did GM ever officially announce the start of 9-4X CUVs?

Answer: It didn't. As such, we're guessing that these are preproduction models and pilots destined for crash testing and whatnot (according to GM Inside News, that status has been confirmed), but it still may portend interesting things to come from the Saab brand moving forward.


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saab 9-4X Concept live reveal


[Source: Automotive News via GM Inside News]

Saab 9-5 and 9-4X in low-volume production? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-49-4 x9-4X9-4x biopower9-4x biopower concept9-4X saab9-4xBiopower9-4xBiopowerConcept9-4xSaabsaabSaab 9-4xsaab 9-5saab productionSaab9-4xSaab9-5SaabProductionMon, 25 Jan 2010 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19330519/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/25/saab-9-5-and-9-4x-in-low-volume-production/19330519/article-detail.xml 19330519 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/saab-9-4x_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/saab-9-4x.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Spyker would preserve Saab product plans, could sell own supercars in select dealers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/31/report-spyker-would-preserve-saab-product-plans-could-sell-own/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/31/report-spyker-would-preserve-saab-product-plans-could-sell-own/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/31/report-spyker-would-preserve-saab-product-plans-could-sell-own/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2006 Saab Aero-X Concept - click above for high-res gallery

In a far-reaching interview with AOL Autos this morning, Spyker Cars CEO Victor Muller revealed some interesting tidbits about his company's plan for Saab if they can successfully negotiate for its purchase from parent company General Motors.

In a product plan that sounds distinctly like those previously floated by Saab executives in Sweden, the Dutch supercar builder would have Saab rebuild its brand around the 9-3, new-for-2010 9-5, and the 9-4X crossover. An entry-level 9-1 model would not be a consideration, although Muller admits he'd still love to build a production version of 2006's celebrated Aero X concept (shown above). If Saab were to go that route, Spyker's experience in building low-volume supercars would clearly be an asset in bringing it to market.

In news that will surely be welcomed by Saab dealers and customers, Muller says Spyker has decided it would not pursue plans to winnow Saab's U.S. dealer network from 218 showrooms to 137. In fact, the Dutch businessman suggests that it would be reasonable to expect Spyker to sell its own cars within Saab showrooms in the future (they are presently distributed through Bentley and Lamborghini outlets). Down the road, Spyker's supercars could benefit from Saab's all-wheel drive expertise, among other things.

Naturally, all of this future product discussion will be moot if Spyker and its investors can't get GM to hand over the keys to the perennially embattled brand. A newly extended deadline for sales negotiations to be completed was set by GM on Wednesday, and we should know not long after January 7 what fate awaits the brand.


Gallery: Saab Aero-X concept


[Source: AOL Autos]

Report: Spyker would preserve Saab product plans, could sell own supercars in select dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-19-1x9-39-49-4xGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMMullerSaabSaab 9-3saab saleSaab9-3SaabSaleSpykerSpyker CarsSpykerCarsViktor MullerViktorMullerThu, 31 Dec 2009 14:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19299659/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/31/report-spyker-would-preserve-saab-product-plans-could-sell-own/19299659/article-detail.xml 19299659 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/saab-9-3-aero-x-concept-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/saab-9-3-aero-x-concept-630.jpg <![CDATA[BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After a protracted saga that has seen bidders drop in-and-out and old model tooling and assets sold off to the Chinese, the enigmatic brand known as Saab is dead. In a press release issued this morning, General Motors announced that the "intended sale of Saab Automobile AB would not be concluded." GM had been in talks with Dutch exoticmakers Spyker Cars after pursuing a number of other buyer leads (including the aborted sale with Koenigsegg), but The General says that in the course of due diligence, the resolution of certain unspecified issues became impossible in the time frame that they had set for themselves.

As such, GM will immediately begin the "wind down" of the much-loved yet perpetually unprofitable cult brand, but says it will continue to honor warranties and provide spare parts and service - presumably through other GM brand dealers - as Saab dealers go offline. Officials note that this is not a bankruptcy or forced liquidation situation, so outstanding creditors should still expect to receive payment.

It is not clear what will happen to the production-ready 2010 9-5, nor the current 9-3/9-3X model and almost-ready 9-4X. Official death certificate available after the jump, historical slide show of the brand in photographs viewable below.


Gallery: Saab - A History in Pictures


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand

BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Saab 9-32010 Saab 9-3x2010 Saab 9-52010Saab9-32010Saab9-3x2010Saab9-59-39-4x9-5brand closingBrandClosingbreakingbreakingnewsGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMsaabSaab 9-3Saab 9-4xSaab 9-5Saab9-3Saab9-4xSaab9-5spykerwind-downwinddownwindownFri, 18 Dec 2009 09:36:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19286658/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/19286658/article-detail.xml 19286658 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/2010-saab-9-5-dead-on-630-1259769682_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/2010-saab-9-5-dead-on-630-1259769682.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: Despite selling off old bits to BAIC, Saab brand still in search of buyer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-despite-selling-off-old-bits-to-baic-saab-brand-still-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-despite-selling-off-old-bits-to-baic-saab-brand-still-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-despite-selling-off-old-bits-to-baic-saab-brand-still-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Saab 9-5 - click above for high-res image gallery

Here's a little bit more on the salvation/debacle of Saab. First of all, it should be pointed out that after our last report about Holland's Spyker trying to buy Saab, the freaks lovely people over at Saabs United pointed out some gaping holes in our reporting an inconsistency or two with the Reuters/our version of the facts. As such, we've gone ahead and vetted the information we're using for this post with the brain trust over at Saabs United. Hey, they really like Saabs, what can we say? And now, on to the story.

Automotive News is reporting that China's Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Company (BAIC) has reached a deal with General Motors to acquire the tooling for both the Saab 9-3 and 9-5. Not so fast, says Saab's United! What they actually acquired is the tooling for the old 9-5, as well as the stuff for the pre-2006 9-3. Sort of a big difference, as obviously Saab's just getting geared up to roll out the all new 9-5 - and whomever winds up buying Saab will most likely want to offer both it and the existing 9-3 and its derivatives. Spyker's CEO Victor Muller confirms the BAIC deal is for "old equipment" and goes on to characterize the BAIC deal as, "Good news."

Then there's a bunch of no commenting. Obviously, General Motors has no comment on anything, though they do say that once a deal is reached they will say something. As far as we can tell, the pending Spyker deal is still a definite maybe. BAIC could not be reached to make a "no comment," and Saab's Eric Geer's stated, "We can't comment on anything about the sales process." Though our Saabs United source does provide us with a juicy tidbit, "[Geer's] wife is Saab's head legal counsel so he's like the canary in the coal mine. If he ever resigns suddenly..."

So there you have it - Saab's future is still totally up in the air. Though our source says that in addition to the 9-5 sedan, there's a 9-5 wagon (SportCombi) that's "pretty much ready to go" as well as the 9-4x which has, "been ready for about a year but Caddy had to get the SRX out first." Plus, a new 9-3 is being worked on. And one more thing - Saabs United is reporting that a Swedish group (not Renco) is also in talks with GM, in addition to the Spyker deal. We'll keep you posted.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: Automotive News - subs req. | Saabs United]

REPORT: Despite selling off old bits to BAIC, Saab brand still in search of buyer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Saab 9-32010 Saab 9-3x2010 Saab 9-52010Saab9-32010Saab9-3x2010Saab9-59-39-4x9-5BAICGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMRencoSaabSaab 9-3Saab 9-4xSaab 9-5Saab 9-5 Wagonsaab saleSaab9-3Saab9-4xSaab9-5Saab9-5WagonSaabs UnitedSaabSaleSaabsUnitedSportcombiSpykerswedish automakerSwedishAutomakerMon, 14 Dec 2009 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19276742/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/14/report-despite-selling-off-old-bits-to-baic-saab-brand-still-i/19276742/article-detail.xml 19276742 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/saab95_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/saab95.jpg -1 2