Autoblog je napisal/-a:Revitalization in Action posts dream Saab lineup

Posted Nov 6th 2006 2:56PM by John Neff
The GM Inside News forum members who conjured up a dream Buick lineup for their project titled Revitalization in Action have come back again with a turnaround plan for Saab. GMI member ChevroletRevived collaborated with fellow forum member fbodyrules, who supplied the Photoshop skills, to dream up a new line of Saabs on which the quirky Swedish brand should, in their opinion, adopt if it hopes to save itself from being sold or axed altogether.

The lineup includes a 9-1 small luxury vehicle along the lines of the Volvo C30 and Audi A3; a refreshened 9-3 with cues from the Aero X that allow the brand's volume seller to carry on another four years before an Epsilon II-based model is ready; a 9-4X small CUV that will compete with the Acura RDX, BMW X3 and Audi's upcoming Q5; a new 9-5 based on the Epsilon II platform (shown above); another version of the Lambda platform for the 9-7X replacement called the 9-6x; and finally a true luxury brand flagship in the new 9-9x sedan.

In true Saab form, the GMI guys have placed various turbo powerplants in all the models, ranging from the 1.8t in the 9-1 to the 480-hp, turbocharged 4.6-liter V8 in the 9-9x Aero. They also aim to keep Saab on the cutting edge by having GM offer its two-mode hybrid system in various models with the brand's BioPower motor that can run on gas or ethanol. Clearly a common design theme has been executed across this entire fictitious lineup that draws heavily from the Aero X concept, as well. Their designs are fetching, their product planning is thorough, and the end result is the most mainstream and attractive Saab lineup ever dreamed up. The question now is, will it remain a dream?

Follow the Read link to peruse the supposed future of Saab and let us know if you think these guys are on the right flight path or have totally veered off course.

[Source: GM Inside News]

Trim Levels

Base: 9-1 1.8t
Mid-level: 9-1x 1.8t BioPower
Up-level: 9-1x Aero


Introduction


Talk about tapping into largely unexplored new markets. Small luxury is in, plain and simple. A4, 3
Series, 9-3? They aren't the "compact" luxury cars they once were. This new market is occupied by only
the A3 and to some extent the Mini. Saab has an opportunity to jump into the game here. The 9-1 could come at just the right time, right as this new segment in the market is opening, establishing a foot hold and cashing in on it's spectacular growth potential. BMW's 1 Series isn't here yet, and who knows when it'll arrive, and that leaves Saab with a golden opportunity. Saab character, combined with the environmentally friendly BioPower engine, would make the 9-1 the choice of a ripe market with few entries. A hot little hatch would go back to Saab's roots, selling well and bringing more affordable excitement to the brand, much like the original Saab classic, the 900. The, 9-1, simply put, is a modern day 900, a Saab for the Saab purist.

With Subaru no longer available to draw upon for the next generation Saab 9-1, and the car needing a
replacement, the next generation 9-1 arrives to take it's place, based on the flexible next generation
Delta platform, Delta II. Because of that, this time around Saab will get to be a lot more creative with it's
smallest entry, making the 9-1 it's own. Simply put, the 9-1 will be a true Saab. Naming for the next
generation 9-2X is not confirmed, 9-2 and 9-1 are both on the table.


Specifications Sheet

Vehicle Type: 3 Door 3 passenger Sport Hatch
Size Comparison: Audi A3
Competitors: Audi A3
Base Platform: Enhanced Delta II
Drive Wheels: FWD, AWD Aero/9-1x BioPower
Engines:
9-1 1.8t: 1.8L 175HP Ecotec Turbo
9-1x BioPower: 1.8L (On E100) 245HP BioPower Turbo Ecotec
9-1x Aero: 2.0L 265HP Ecotec Turbo
Transmissions: 6 Speed Manual, 6 Speed Sentronic

Trim Levels

Base: 9-3 2.0t, 9.3 2.0T, 9-3H 2.3T BioPower
Mid-level: 9-3xH 2.3T BioPower
Up-level: 9-3x Aero, 9-3x Viggen
Body Styles:
Sedan, Convertible, SportCombi

Introduction

With the current 9-3 getting a bit long tooth, and the Aura, 2008 Malibu coming out and being
redesigned, GM decided that it was time the 9-3 get a redesign based on the current platform instead
of waiting longer for a 2009 Epsilon II based 9-3. Given this, we expect the Epsilon platform to solder on
a little while longer, with the Epsilon II cars arriving around 2011, not the 2010 we were originally
thinking, giving the redesigned Epsilon based cars around 3 or 4 model years on the market. With AWD
being a necessity to compete in this segment, the 9-3 will be getting AWD, along with a full Mid Cycle
Enhancement (MCE) for the 2008 model year. What Saab has done with the 9-3 under a different style
of GM back in the early years of the decade is testament to it's expertise and know how. Saab turned a
midsize non luxury platform into a refined, capable one, and they produced one of the best sedans in
GM's stable. If this was GM a few years ago, imagine what is in store for the next 9-3, and indeed all of
the Saab lineup. The current 9-3 is Saab's bread and butter, and a driving force for Saab's upward
sales trend, and the redesigned 9-3 better have the good to compete and style to make it stand apart
from the competition. Styled in the mold of the beautiful Aero X showcar, the 9-3 has a youthful "Junior
Saab" style that is shared by both the 9-1 and 9-4X, with a bit different style of it's own to set it apart from
it's larger brethren, the 9-5, 9-6X and 9-9X.

Using completely feasible technology already developed and in GM's arsenal, the 9-3 adds something
that will help it to lead the segment in innovation and environmental friendliness. Our 9-3 offers a
hybrid, the first in it's segment, and hugely important for a variety of reasons, not just the virtue of being
a hybrid. The importance of this revolutionary hybrid system cannot be stressed enough. Some
amazing firsts are evident in this hybrid system. Namely, 1. The first application of the BioPower engine
in the US, 2. The first application in the world of an engine capable of running on any mixture of
gas/ethanol to a full hybrid system, 3. The first instance of the Dual Mode hybrid being used in a sedan
in the United States. Do it, GM.

The current 9-3 is a unique car for GM. It's modern, stylish and is selling well on the coasts. A lot of
young professionals are looking to the 9-3 as an alternative option, something competent, different and
exclusive compared to the 3-Series or CL-Class. In the fashionable areas of the country, Saab, along
with Cadillac are are GM's best opportunity for sales. No question, Saabs are different. But, different
can be a good thing, and in Saab's case, looking at the current lineup and the possibilities for the
future, it certainly is. The CTS and the next generation Epsilon II based 9-3 are the most important
luxury introductions ever for GM. The 2008 Saab 9-3 is coming at a time of GM product renaissance, an
era of beautiful design and attention to detail. The next 9-3 as the possibility to make your jaw drop, so
expect nothing less. Thanks to our friends at Saab blog Trollhattan Saab (www.trollhattansaab.net),
and from reports we've gathered, it's pretty concrete that their will be a Saab introduction in the US, in
August of 2007. The most logical vehicle introduction would be the 9-3, as it would be the most farthest
along by now.

Specifications Sheet

Vehicle Type: Small to Midsize 5 passenger 4 door Sedan, 5 Door SportCombi and 2 Door Convertible
Size Comparison: BMW 3 Series
Competitors: BMW 3 Series, Acura TL, Mercedes Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Volvo S60
Base Platform: Epsilon I
Drive Wheels: FWD, AWD Option, AWD Aero/Viggen
Engines:
9-3 2.0t: 2.0L 230HP Ecotec Turbo
9-3 2.0T: 2.0T: 2.0L 260HP Ecotec Turbo
9-3H (9-3xH) 2.3T BioPower: 2.3L 280HP (On E100) BioPower Turbo w/Dual Mode Hybrid System
9-3x Aero: 2.8L 320HP HF Turbo V6
9-3x Viggen: 3.0L 350HP HOT V6
Transmissions: 6 speed Manual, 6-Speed Sentronic, Aero: 7 Speed DSG

Trim Levels

Base: 9-4X 2.8t
Up-level: 9-4X Aero


Introduction


Wagons, Minivans, SUV's. There have been a lot of different fads. The crossover is shaping up to be the
next big thing. Highly competitive, and with a lot of new entries, GM has made sure to establish itself in
this market with it's class leading Lambda platform mates and the Cadillac SRX. However, given the
reality of high fuel prices, there is an emerging trend within the move to crossover vehicles. And, what is
that, you might ask? It's the small luxury crossover segment. X3, RDX, upcoming Q5 and BRX. These
small, fast and relatively efficient vehicles are replacing midsize BOF SUV's for a lot of customers. And,
the move to a smaller vehicle allows buyers to look for a luxury offering. GM's got small non-luxury
crossovers covered with the Equinox and Vue platform mates. However, GM needs an offering at the
luxury end of this segment. Relatively high-volume, BMW has met success with it's X3, and Saab needs
something to combat it and the Acura RDX. That's the mission of the 9-4X. Yes, Cadillac should and
will be getting it's BRX also, but Saab has a better chance to appeal to buyers of the Acura RDX
specifically, considering it's the "Thinkers" favorite, the exact market Saab should be going for.

The 9-4X is based on Theta II; a combination of EPII and the previous Theta platform. Built in Mexico, the 9-4X is powered by a 2.8L 255HP Mild Turbo HF V6 on the base end, and for the upscale, sports Aero model, a 3.0L 300HP Turbo HF V6. A sports luxury crossover like the 9-4X will be very successful, a hit with the 20-30 male professionals segment. A case of "Unless GM decides to pull this thing forward", expect the 9-4X to show around this time, but certainly not any later.


Specifications Sheet

Vehicle Type: 5 Passenger Small Sport Luxury CUV
Size Comparison: BMW X3
Competitors: BMW X3, Acura RDX, Audi Q5, Cadillac BRX
Base Platform: Theta II
Drive Wheels: AWD
Engines:
9-4X 2.8t: 2.8L 255HP Mild Turbo HF V6
9-4X Aero: 3.0L 300HP Turbo HF V6
Transmissions: 6-Speed Manual, 6 speed Sentronic

Trim Levels

Base: 9-5 2.0T, 9.5H 2.3T BioPower
Mid-level: 9-5x 2.8T, 9-5xH 2.3T BioPower
Up-level: 9-5x Aero
Body Styles
Sedan, SportCombi

Introduction

Without a doubt, the current 9-5 is overdue for a replacement. The update for 2006 was not enough to make the 9-5 a true contender again. Volvo's recently redesigned S80, while competent, fails to excite in the design department, or even provide a striking change on the exterior for the undiscerning eye. The technological advancement and interior refinement/design displayed by that car are admiral qualities however, and something that Saab should keep in mind. Technology and design. If Saab can get those two right, the 9-5 will be a hit. We've already got the refinement and quality down, but the two aforementioned areas need to be emphasized. The 9-3 and 9-5 are two of Saab's most important models, the profitable volume sellers, and they can't be taken lightly. The 9-5 should be embody everything Saab is, and what it stands for.

Most specifically, BMW is the company to beat in the midsize luxury segment. They've got perception on
their side and they enjoy high profit per vehicle margins. This segment is probably the most important of
all to the luxury manufacturers. It's combination of high volumes and high prices make for a powerful and
profitable cocktail. BMW's commandeering of this segment is impressive. However, there is potential for
success here. The 9-5 can bring exclusivity and difference to a seemingly "Me too" segment. Yes, BMW
has the technological edge, but they have put off many consumers with their controversial styling and
confusing iDrive controller. A combination of GM's best technologies will make for an advanced display of
what GM can do in the midsize luxury segment, along with the upcoming Cadillac CTS. However, this has
to be an all out attempt, and Saab needs to work on it until they get it. If they can do it, the profits and
perception of success will be invaluable to GM in aiding the turnaround.


Based on an enlarged and enhanced Epsilon II platform, the 9-5 2.0T and 9-5H 2.3T BioPower are
powered by 2 Ecotec engines. The uplevel 2.8T, by an 2.8L 300 HP HF Turbo V6. The Aero high
performance model is powered by a 3.0L 350HP High Output Turbo (HOT) HF V6. All wheel drive is
standard on the 2.8T and Aero models. AWD on the hybrid is also available, as the 9-5xH 2.3T BioPower.
Starting out at $37,995*, the 9-5 brings a lot of innovative features to the table. Doing much in the way for
innovation, not only for it's segment, but the 9-5 will mark the second introduction of a hybrid mated to a
motor capable of running on any mixture of Ethanol fuel, as well as gas. It also marks the first introduction
of GM's dual mode hybrid technology in a midsize luxury sedan. Truly a win win win situation, the 9-5H is a
hybrid that makes sense. It gets excellent gas mileage due to the small Ecotec engine and Hybrid,
therefore using less fuel. And the fuel that you would be using can be any mixture of Ethanol and Gas. How
is that for solidifying Saab's technological prowess and in establishing a green image? These are the 2
key points in helping Saab become GM's leading conquest brand, with high profit margins and a sparkling
image. The 9-5 brings style, coolness and environmental consciousness to the mid-luxury segment. Our
proposed 9-5 arrives in late 2008, as a 2009 model. We've heard different reports on the arrival of the
production 9-5, but we feel that the timing of our 9-5 is correct for the production model.

Specifications Sheet

Vehicle Type: Midsize 5 Passenger 4 door Sedan and 5-Door SportCombi
Size Comparison: BMW 5 Series
Competitors: BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Acura RL, Audi A6, Volvo S80, Jaguar S-Type,
Cadillac STS
Base Platform: Enhanced Epsilon II
Drive Wheels: FWD, AWD Option, AWD Aero
Engines:
9-5 2.0T: 2.0L 230HP Ecotec Turbo 4
9-5H (9-5xH) 2.0T BioPower: 2.0L 280HP (On E100) BioPower Ecotec Turbo 4 w/Dual Mode Hybrid System
9-5x 2.8T: 2.8L 300HP HF Turbo V6
9-5x Aero: 3.0L 350HP HOT V6 w/DI
For the European Market, a 2.0L 260HP Ecotec Turbo is in place of the 9-5 2.8T model
Transmissions: 6 Speed Manual, 6 Speed Sentronic, Aero: 7 Speed DSG

Trim Levels

Base: 9-6X 3.2t
Mid-level: 9.6XH
Up-level: 9-6X Aero

Introduction

With the 9-4X covering the smaller end of the luxury crossover market, there is a gap left in the larger,
more upscale section of the segment. That is where the 9-6X comes in. A mid to large crossover, the
market targeted by the 9-6X specifically includes the Q7, X5 and MDX. A lot of customers have been
leaving Saab for the other makes because of Saab's lack of a crossover. Saab needs something to
offer that not only will keep those customers, but gain some new ones too. It's easier said then done,
because succeeding in this highly competitive market requires having the goods to compete, while
offering something the others don't. Good thing, because the 9-6X packs some innovative features.
These features include running boards integrated into the body work and swiveling heated/cooled
second row captains chairs. On top of this, Saab has the stylistic edge. Simply put, GM has the stylistic
edge here. With the Enclave and 9-6X, GM will have some amazingly competitive entries with beautiful
styling. Why buy an X5 or RX when you can get the same level of refinement, more safety features,
along with styling that you love and innovative features that no one else offers?

Based on an Enhanced Lambda platform, with 4 wheel independent suspension, ReAxs system and
1" lower ride height, the 9-6X is powered by a 3.0L 300 HP HF V6 and the Aero by a 3.6L 380 HP HF
Turbocharged V6. The 9-6X is a sport luxury crossover, with performance rivaling the Porsche Cayenne
and the recently introduced Acura MDX. Sporty, stylish, luxurious and spacious, simply put, the 9-6X is
the sports car lovers luxury crossover.

Another Saab first for it's segment, the 9-6X is offered with the Dual Mode hybrid option. Like midsize
BOF owners with the 9-4X, a lot of Full-size non-luxury buyers are moving down, and the move enables
them to afford luxury crossovers. With a vehicle like the 9-6X, not only do they get better gas mileage
because it's smaller, lighter, etc, but also because of the availability of the Dual Mode hybrid system.
Expect the production 9-6X to arrive for the 2009 or 2010 model year.


Specifications Sheet

Vehicle Type: 7 passenger Sport Luxury CUV
Size Comparison: BMW X5
Competitors: Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz R-Class, Porsche Cayenne, Acura MDX, BMW X5, Cadillac SRX,
Buick Enclave, Lexus RX, Lincoln MKX
Base Platform: Enhanced Lambda
Drive Wheels: AWD
Engines:
9-6X 3.2t: 300HP HF Turbo V6
9-6XH: 3.2L 330HP Turbo HF V6/w Dual Mode Hybrid System
9-6X Aero: 3.6L 380HP HOT HF V6
Transmissions: 6 speed Sentronic

Trim Levels

Base: 9-9x 4.0t
Up-level: 9-9x Aero


Introduction

No luxury brand is complete without a range topping luxury flagship. It's a necessity to be taken
seriously and to truly compete. The positive image of a luxury flagship rubs off on the whole lineup.
Nothing less then an all out Cadillac style revitalization will be enough to truly bring Saab into
contention for mainstream luxury buyers in the US. Saab needs a competitive, stunning Full-size luxury
sedan. The 9-9x is that car.

The import makes (most specifically, German) guard the upper luxury segment that they control
aggressively. Only Lexus's recent offering is a credible attempt at breaking into this market. The
German automakers don't take this lightly, they're on their game, and all of GM needs to be focused on
making sure that the 9-9x works. A standard complement of Saab features, such as driver’s oriented
cockpit, NightPanel, SID, SAHR II and anti-submarining seats are included. Additional luxury features in
the interior abound, and include reclining rear heated/cooled/massaging seats, 4-Zone Digital Climate
Control System, Heads Up Display, Night Vision, Green LED Ambient Lighting, genuine dash wood,
Alcantara leather and a lane change warning system. The 9-9x isn't something that can be done
cheaply, or quickly. It has to be done right. Exclusivity, attention to detail and beautiful styling will be the
9-9x's selling points. Even in a high end market like this, there is no exclusivity. On America's populous
and fashionable coasts, luxury makes are common place, and S-Classes and 7-Series sedans are
seen everywhere. Buyers are starting to yearn for something different, and that is the beautiful
opportunity that Saab should work to capture. By targeting the performance segment of the premium
sedan market (7-series and XJR), Saab can effectively co-habitate with future high end Cadillacs, which
would most likely target the sophisticated luxury segment (S-Class, 760Li). GM needs a piece of this
profitable market, and the 9-9x is the way to get it.


Based on an premium version of the Zeta platform, the Saab 9-9x utilizes some engine and platform
components that are rumored to be in development and or should be developed by the time we are
proposing this car be introduced. For the engines, we start out with the excellent HF series. The HF has
the capability to go to 4.0L in size. This would be the engine that would go into the base model 9-9x.
The Aero sport model would utilize GM's Ultra V8, itself a variation of the HF series engines. A 4.6L
Turbo Charged Ultra V8 powers the AWD system. Unique features abound, and the styling sets the car
apart from the competition, along with Saab's excellent reputation for safety and innovation. The 9-9x
utilizes all of Saab's technologies and is a safety showcase. It's hard to pinpoint a release date for a car
like this, but expect more to be heard regarding this model. We expect it arrive sometime later in the
decade, with an introduction in 2009 as a 2010, possibly even into the next decade. We haven't heard
anything specific about this model, so it's future is uncertain.


Specifications Sheet

Vehicle Type: 5 Passenger Full-size Premium Luxury Sedan
Size Comparison: BMW 7-Series Standard
Competitors: BMW 7-Series, Audi A8, Jaguar XJ
Size Comparison: BMW 7-Series
Base Platform: Premium Zeta
Drive Wheels: AWD; 50/50 split
Engines:
9-9x 4.0t: 4.0L 380HP HF Mild Turbo V6
9-9x Aero: 4.6L 480HP Turbo Ultra V8
Transmissions: 6-speed Sentronic, 7 speed DSG

martin_krpan je napisal/-a:Če bo novi 9-5 takšen...
http://static.blogo.it/autoblog/saab_95 ... ots_00.jpg
http://static.blogo.it/autoblog/saab_95 ... ots_01.jpg
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autob ... 50_450.jpg

esem je napisal/-a:vidim, da linki na slike v mojem obširnem postu ne delajo.

Lignage je napisal/-a:

esem je napisal/-a:vidim, da linki na slike v mojem obširnem postu ne delajo.

Kar je res škoda. Zanimivo bi bilo videt vse v celoti

lp, mm

esem je napisal/-a:

Lignage je napisal/-a:

esem je napisal/-a:vidim, da linki na slike v mojem obširnem postu ne delajo.

Kar je res škoda. Zanimivo bi bilo videt vse v celoti

lp, mm

Evo, Lignage, samo zate sem poiskal iste slike na njihovem forumu in zamenjal linke. Upam, da bo držalo nekaj časa.
orig. link
http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/show ... hp?t=40042

martin_krpan je napisal/-a:http://www.trollhattansaab.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/img_0796.jpg