8.4.2004
Saab debuts new premium SUV, the Saab 9-7X

Saab's product offensive continues with the introduction of the Saab 9-7X at the New York Auto Show.

As part of an aggressive product development program unprecedented in the company's history, Saab will unveil the new 9-7X SUV this week at the New York International Auto Show.

Expanding its model offering to four vehicle lines, Saab now targets one of the fastest growing market segments, the mid-luxury SUV segment. The mid-luxury SUV segment increased from approximately 45,000 units a year in 1997 to 401,424 units in 2003. By the end of 2005, sales are projected to exceed 470,000 units.

As part of its product offensive Saab launched the redesigned 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-3 Convertible models in the past 18 months. In December 2003, the company unveiled the Saab 9-2X with sales slated to begin July 1, 2004.

The new 9-7X will bring unique Saab characteristics to this growing segment, including: sophisticated exterior and interior styling, premium design features and quality, a chassis tuned to deliver sporty and fun-to-drive performance and the ignition cylinder in the center console behind the gear lever.

The vehicle was developed using the award-winning General Motors GMT360 architecture. Regular production is scheduled to begin in January 2005 at GM's Moraine, Ohio assembly plant with vehicles available for sale in the first quarter of 2005.

" The new Saab 9-7X will provide our dealers with a world-class SUV to satisfy existing customers and to attract new ones," said Debra Kelly-Ennis, President of Saab Cars USA. "In 2003, with an increase of 26.7%, Saab was the fastest growing European premium car brand in the USA. Our unprecedented model offensive will help us continue this strong momentum."

The Saab 9-7X will incorporate a 5.3-liter V8 delivering an estimated 300 horsepower. Product content is characterized by comprehensive standard equipment such as leather trim seats, 18 inch aluminum, alloy wheels, all-wheel-drive and a state-of-the-art sound system.