The 2006 Saab 9-2X will receive the same engine updates that the 2006 Subaru Impreza will. That means a 2006 9-2X
Aero will receive the new 2.5L turbocharged boxer engine. The Linear model designation will go away, and the normally
aspirated model will be called the 9-2X 2.5i. The new 2.5-liter turbo four produces the same 230 horsepower and 235 lb
ft in the Saab as it does in the Impreza. The new engine offered across both models provides slightly more horsepower,
but a significant increase in peak torque. The 2.5i model will also get a boost in power, about 8 hp. Saab has been
criticized for selling an Impreza in a fancier wrapper. However, they are very different from a styling standpoint and
the Saab offers a touch more luxury. Actually, some buyers may begin to favor the Saab over the Subaru, especially with
Subaru’s new corporate visage face. Read more to see the complete release from GM.
Detroit, Mich. ? The all-wheel drive Saab 9-2X enters it second year of production with a more powerful engine in
the Aero model, more horsepower and a new name for the base model, and simplified option packages. At the same time,
MSRP?s for 2006 9-2X?s remain unchanged from 2005.
The 2006 9-2X Aero pays tribute to Saab?s signature torque heritage with a new 2.5L turbo 4-cylinder boxer engine that
makes 230 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm and 235 lb. ft of torque @ 3,600 rpm (up from 227-hp/217 lb. ft. last year).
Seventeen-inch all-season tires will be available on the Aero. Sixteen-inch all-season rubber continues to be standard
on both 2.5i and Aero models.
The former Linear model will now be called the 2.5i, reflecting the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated
engine is now rated at 173-hp @ 6,000 rpm, up eight horsepower from last year. Peak torque is slightly adjusted to 166
lb.-ft. @ 4,400 rpm.
9-2X MSRP?s remain unchanged in 2006 at $22,990 for the 2.5i and $26,950 for the Aero. Destination charges, however,
will increase $25 to $720, bringing the prices to $23,710 and $27,670, respectively.
An available Leather Package includes leather appointed seats and door inserts on the Aero. The 2.5i also gets a
leather steering wheel, gearshift knob, and hand brake boot. 2005?s Premium Package is deleted from both models.
The 9-2X Aero?s Sport Package is revised to include 17-inch wheels with all-season performance tread and xenon
headlamps. The power moonroof on the Aero becomes a stand-alone option.
The 2006 9-2X Aero will be available in Midnight Black Mica, Arctic Silver Metallic and Brilliant Red.
The full-time all-wheel drive system, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and four-speed automatic/five speed manual
transmissions remain unchanged for 2006.