Euro wagons are very cool. And Saab wagons have always been up there as some of the coolest. I mean, there’s no better way to lug around your latest flat-pack purchases.
So, ahead of the Geneva Motor Show in March, Saab has teased us with this image. It’s the next step in Saab’s revival. They’re using terms like “sleek and fun-to-drive” and “a distinctive, alternative choice to the premium large estate segment.”
For their sake, let’s hope that’s not just marketing fluff.
Saab’s resurgence shows further signs of progression with these new images of their upcoming 9-4X SUV. It will have a full reveal at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November. For now, though, we’ve got these six pics to look at.
Once you get past the initial protestations that the world doesn’t really need a new player in the SUV segment you’re left thinking that this first up effort from Saab is actually shaping up as a pretty good start. At least, you can see it mixing with its Audi, BMW and Volvo brethren at your nearest private school.
It is powered by a choice of two V6 engines. A normally aspirated 3.0 litre option with 265PS, but you really need the turbocharged 2.8 litre unit with no less than 300PS. That ought to help get the kids to school on time if the little blighters have struggled to tie up their laces and made mummy late.
Saab Automobile CEO Jan Ã…ke Jonsson gives us the official view, “The 9-4X significantly broadens the appeal of the Saab brand. It gives us entry to the fast-growing crossover segment with a vehicle that reflects our brand values in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design and sporty, responsible driving performance. The 9-4X is an exciting package and we’re confident it will appeal to many existing Saab owners, as well as win new customers for the brand.”
The 9-4X is fitted with Saab’s XWD all-wheel drive system, but the boffins from Haldex have also found time to add a new eLSD for the rear differential. Supposedly this makes for “a more rewarding driving experience and greater control in all conditions, dry or wet, on and off-road.”
Following its LA motor show debut the 9-4X will go on sale in the US next May. Europe gets the candy in August, the UK a bit later and Australia, well, we’re not sure yet, but if not late 2011, you’re nearest yummy mummy might have to wait until 2012.
Recent media gossip suggesting Saab is set to announce a technology and parts sourcing arrangement with BMW has forced parent company Spyker to release the following statement:
“Zeewolde, The Netherlands, 27 September 2010. Spyker Cars N.V. (“the Groupâ€), a holding company that owns subsidiaries which produce and sell premium automobiles under the Saab and Spyker brands, has noted recent press speculation about the possible supply relationship with BMW. The Group confirms that talks are ongoing and will give further details once a final agreement has been reached.”
A BMW spokesman has said they often talk to other manufacturers from time to time, but did not confirm or deny discussions are in place with Saab.
Reports have speculated that Saab could source engines from BMW as well as building the new 9-2 platform using MINI architecture. The Swedish car-maker has a press-release scheduled for Wednesday, so it’s a fair bet we’ll have more info on this story then.
[Source: autocar]
It’s been almost six months since the Saab 9-5 began production under its new owners Spyker. The car is now on sale and reviewers are stating to file their reports. Can the new 9-5 usher in a new era of stability for Saab? Can the 9-5 shed its humble GM origins? More importantly, and more simply, is the new 9-5 any good?
Take the jump and see what VBH from Fifth Gear has to say.
A recent report from autosport suggests both Saab and Volkswagen are considering a future in WRC. Saab have a proud rallying history but haven’t competed at the highest level in over 30 years.
It’s understood they could return in 2012 with a WRC car based on their 9-1 or 9-2 platform. They could even source their engines direct from MINI, who have also recently announced a return to top level rallying.
An anonymous source has reportedly told autosport that meetings between Saab and WRC organisers have already taken place, “The initial meeting has happened and there’s a huge amount of enthusiasm from all concerned. Like Mini, Saab has a great heritage in the sport and a return to the WRC makes a lot of sense.” The article states more talks are planned in October.
It was also reported that Volkswagen could be ready to commit to the WRC with a limited program in 2012, before a full on assault in 2013.
Simon Long, CEO of North One Sport, WRC’s promoter, said, “I think Mini’s announcement has given people a lot of confidence in the sport. The messages we’re getting are all positive.”
Architects across the world can rejoice, and sales of black skivvies are also assured as Saab’s new era has begun. A a new 9-5 model was the first to roll off the Trollhättan production facility after the company’s future was secured.
CEO of Spyker Cars, Victor Muller, said, “Everyone at Saab has worked extremely hard to reach this important point. Today production restarted with a new 9-5 first down the line – a fitting symbol that a new era has begun.”
Saab Automobile CEO, Jan Ã…ke Jonsson paid tribute to his workers, “We are up and running as an independent manufacturer and I am delighted to share the experience on the line alongside our workforce. They have shown tremendous commitment to the company and we are all now focused on ramping up production to meet customer demand.”
The new Saab 9-5 model is due for release later this year and the units rolling of the line now will be used as test vehicles.
With the immediate future of Saab now secure, plans for a new compact-sized model are emerging. Expected to be badged as the 9-1, the new mini-Saab is creating enough hype for the Photoshop gurus to start speculating what the car could look like.
The new Saab will still continue to draw mechanical inspiration from the GM parts bin and the 9-1 would likely be based on the new Astra platform. With the well established MINI and new Audi A1 in its sights the Saab 9-1 needs to marry style, handling and hype in equal parts if it is to make a lasting mark in this space.
The above rendering is somewhat clunky in parts, but it does give a good idea as to how Saab styling cues may translate to a smaller car.
Last night Spyker Cars completed its purchase of Saab. Spyker intends to allows Saab Automobiles to operate as a stand-alone sister company alongside the Dutch brand under the parent company of Amsterdam Euronext.
Victor Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars NV is excited about what lies ahead for the Swedish brand, “We are delighted—Saab’s future is now secure.
“With a well funded business plan in place we are looking forward to working with Saab’s management on the realisation of that plan and bringing exciting new products to our customers. Real Saabs, Saab Saabs.”
Understandably Saab’s CEOis breathing a sigh of relief, “Today’s announcement is great for Saab’s customers, dealers, suppliers and employees around the globe, the level of passion and support shown to Saab over recent months has been remarkable and this does bode well for the future. Now we aim to get back to the execution of our business plan, starting with the introduction of the new 9-5 later this year, and with the continued support of our employees and business partners I am confident we will succeed.”
A full statement can be read below.
Great news for Saab fans with confirmation that Spyker Cars and General Motors have finally reached an agreement for the sale of Saab. Spyker will form a new company call Saab Spyker Automobiles and the deal could be closed in around two weeks.
In a statement released by GM, John Smith, vice president for corporate planning and alliances said, “General Motors, Spyker Cars, and the Swedish government worked very hard and creatively for a deal that would secure a sustainable future for this unique and iconic brand, and we’re all happy for the positive outcome.”
Earlier this month GM had started the wind down process for Saab even though negotiations for a sale were still ongoing. The wind down process been suspended with immediate effect, pending finalisation of this deal.
GM have given notice that the wind down process of Saab, first announced late last year, has commenced. Consulting firm AlixPartners have been chosen by GM to act as wind down supervisors.
A statement released by GM reads, “The wind down process is expected to take several months, and will ensure that employees, dealers and suppliers are adequately protected. As stated previously, Saab customers can be assured that warranties will continue to be honored and that service and spare parts will continue to be available.”
However, Spyker still holds out some home that they can save Saab from extinction. Victor Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars said yesterday, “We have continued a constructive dialogue with GM over the acquisition of Saab. We believe the Saab brand has lots of potential and would be keen to close a deal as quickly as possible.”
As expected GM received a number of offers for Saab by their 7 January deadline. GM’s statement says these will be considered independently of the wind down process, “GM also confirmed that it has received several proposals for Saab and is continuing to evaluate these proposals. This evaluation is not affected by the appointment of AlixPartners.”
Set me free, why don’t you babe. Get out my life, why don’t you babe. ‘Cause you don’t really love me. You just keep me hangin’ on. You don’t really need me. But you keep me hangin’ on…
Yep, you guessed it, despite yet another deadline passing and a reported four bids received there is still noone behind the wheel at Saab. It is understood GM is allowing an extra 24 hours for Spyker to secure funding to finalise their latest offer for the Swedish car brand.
Other interest is reported to have come from Genii Capital, for those playing at home you may remember these are the same guys that forked out some cash to keep Renault F1 afloat. Now, if you’re really paying attention you’ll know it was Koenigsegg that kicked off this whole Saab buying malarkey. Supposedly, Genii’s bid is effectively the Koenigsegg bid in new clothing. Although, this deal gets more intriguing when you realise the Genii in the bottle is none other than F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone. That’s right, Bernie is part of the Genii Capital bid for Saab.
A Genii spokesman reckons Saab are ripe for the picking and can’t understand why people aren’t banging down the door at GM with wads of cash, “It is a true opportunity and we’re surprised that more investors haven’t identified this opportunity,†he added, “Saab is a strong brand on the same level as Porsche and BMW.â€
Unidentified bids from two Swedish business groups are also expected to be lodged with GM.
For their part GM just wants to get over Saab and start afresh. “Just show up with the money and you can have it [Saab], but nobody’s showing up with the money,†says GM CEO Ed Whitacre. Maybe the readers of AUSmotive can help Ed come to a conclusion—Kim Wilde or The Supremes?
[Source: Autocar & SaabsUnited]
Just before Christmas news emerged of a revised bid from niche Dutch car manufacturer Spyker to buy Saab. Supposedly the GM heavies didn’t really care much for the toys left in their Christmas stockings by Spyker and the second bid was also turned away.
However, like a determined kid who wants to get their way, it is understood that Spyker is trying to flog a dead horse one more time.
GM have set a deadline for Saab takeover bids which expires in a couple of days. Saab reckon there’s potentially more than one party ready to take on the Swedish brand, too. So far, though, Spyker are the only known bidders. I guess more will be revealed by the end of the week.
[Source: Reuters]