Dubai, United Arab Emirates - The all-black Saab Turbo X has now arrived at Saab dealers’ showrooms around the Middle East. Celebrating three decades of Saab turbocharging leadership and the first to feature Saab’s state-of-the art Cross-Wheel Drive system, the very limited-edition Turbo X is a driver-focused performance car that is already being hailed as an instant classic.

“The Turbo X is the ultimate performance expression of the new Saab 9-3 range,” said Saab Marketing Manager Johnny Amiouni. “It delivers levels of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control never experienced before from Saab.”

The first-ever turbocharged Saab, a 99 “CombiCoupe” hatchback, debuted for the 1978 model year. Combining brisk performance with excellent fuel efficiency, that car started a trend that was followed by many other manufacturers. Now, the all-black Turbo X evokes the iconic appeal of the first black 99 and 900 Turbos – while introducing innovative Saab XWD all-wheel-drive technology.

“Like the enthusiasts who have remained loyal from the first turbo models, we are very proud of our turbocharging heritage,” added Johnny. “The new Turbo X is one of the most satisfying Saabs ever built.”

The Saab Turbo X is offered only in a four-door Sport Sedan body style. It has styling cues that enhance aerodynamic performance and create a distinctive appearance, including specially designed alloy wheels that have a grey, titanium-like finish that harks back to Saab’s classic three-spoke design. The “black turbo” theme is continued in the well-equipped interior, which carries unique appointments.

With its 280 hp 2.8L V6 turbo engine, the Turbo X is the ultimate performance expression of the new Saab 9-3 range. Saab XWD features active management that not only splits torque delivery between both axles, but also between the rear wheels. This responsive system delivers a level of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control never seen before from Saab.

In addition to tuning of the suspension and its electronic chassis, throttle and powertrain settings, the Turbo X features distinctive styling additions that enhance aerodynamic performance.

Driver in Focus with Saab XWD

- Intelligent Saab XWD for superb handling and roadholding
- Rear eLSD gives torque transfer up to 40% between wheels
- 280 hp 2.8 V6 Turbo with twin-scroll turbocharger, variable valve timing
- Sport tuned chassis optimizes all-wheel-drive benefits

The Saab Turbo X adds a new dimension in chassis control to Saab’s unrivalled experience in turbocharging. It is the result of a development program that leverages the full potential of Saab’s innovative XWD system, with the car’s sport tuned suspension, brakes and electronic control systems all aligned to meet a single need: driving satisfaction.

Saab XWD is an active all-wheel-drive system designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability. Its sophisticated electronic control allows fine balancing of drive torque, not only between the two axles but also between the rear wheels. In effect, this stretches the performance envelope of the chassis, for example, raising the threshold at which ESP throttle and braking interventions are triggered. The result is closer driver involvement through ‘positive force’ chassis control.

The driving benefits of the XWD system are best appreciated out on the open road. Data from the ABS/ESP sensors - measuring wheel speed, yaw rate and steering angle – is utilized by the Saab XWD control module. Rear drive is instantly applied to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics, improving stability and roadholding.

Driver control is taken a step further on the Turbo X by the eLSD, the first application of an electronically-controlled, rear limited slip differential in this segment of the market. It uses inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40 percent of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip. When cornering hard, this yaw damping effect helps the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

To exploit the full benefits of Saab XWD, the chassis of the Turbo X has been lowered by 10 mm and the springs and dampers stiffened to minimize body movement. To maintain a constant ride height irrespective of load, self-levelling dampers are fitted at the rear.

Stopping power is also increased with larger brake discs fitted: internally ventilated (345 mm diameter x 30 mm) at the front and externally ventilated (292 mm diameter x 20 mm) at the rear.

The powerhouse at the heart of the Turbo X is a 24-valve, 2.8-liter V6 turbo engine generating 400 Nm of torque between 2,150 and 4,500 rpm and maximum power of 280 hp at 5,500 rpm. The advanced specification includes a lightweight, all-aluminium construction with a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks for perfect balance, variable inlet valve timing and twin-scroll turbocharging. It is offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

This responsive, high torque powerplant is the perfect partner for Saab XWD. Together, they give the Saab Turbo X sporty, all-wheel-drive performance and handling characteristics that will appeal to all enthusiastic drivers who seek a rewarding experience behind the wheel.

Saab Black Turbo Reborn

- Distinctive Jet Black colour in homage to first Saab 900 Turbo
- Functional sport bodystyling raises aerodynamic efficiency
- ‘Turbo heritage’ boost gauge and personalized driver display

The Saab Turbo X visually communicates its focus on driving performance by extending the bold, progressive design themes of the new 9-3 range. Offered only in metallic jet black, with the front grille and all exterior detailing accented in a matte grey titanium-like finish, it represents a contemporary expression of its illustrious black 900 Turbo forebear.

Distinctive styling additions are designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency, as well as emphasize the Turbo X’s performance focus. At the front, a deeper lip spoiler and integrated air intake contribute to reduced drag while also increasing air flow to the engine and intercooler.

At the rear, the re-profiled bumper and insert panel lowers the point of air flow separation, further reducing drag and assisting high speed stability. The Sport Sedan features a rear spoiler that extends the line of the trunk deck, reducing high speed lift forces at the rear axle.

The Turbo X is further distinguished by unique, 18-inch alloy wheels with a grey titanium-like finish that evokes the look of Saab’s classic three-spoke design. Twin, rhomboid-shaped tailpipes complete the exterior additions.

Inside, the ‘black turbo’ theme is continued throughout the cabin. The sport seating, with additional bolstering, is upholstered entirely in black leather. The sporty ambience is further emphasized by a carbon-fibber finish to the door inserts, glove box and gear shift console which is unique to the Turbo X.

The driver benefits from improved ‘feel’ through the addition of a thick-rimmed, soft grip leather steering wheel. In recognition of Saab’s turbo heritage, the Turbo X boost gauge is a replica of the original 900 Turbo display.

Owners will also enjoy a personalized greeting when they get behind the wheel and switch on the ignition. A unique “All Systems Go” message flashes in the main instrument display. The owner’s name, with the edition number of the car, can also be programmed for display by the supplying dealer.

Courtesy: Saab, General Motors, Middle East

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Posted by Jigar Gondalia on 21 July, 2008 3:39:02 PM IST #