2012 Saab 9-4X Review

The new Saab 9-4X will bring a unique design and the values ??of growth medium-sized crossover segment. Scandinavian and distinctive look inspired air, but also offers a similar car handling and driving characteristics, which challenge the criteria of the class.

Making its world premiere at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the 9-4X is expanding its product portfolio with three lines of Saab cars and offer a new alternative for the crusading spirit independent buyers. It is an important step in the rebirth of the Swedish brand as an independent manufacturer of premium cars.

 

Muscular and sporty to drive, is the Saab 9-4X looks and adjusted in size between 9-3X and do it all new Saab 9-5 sedan. Exterior and interior, it communicates with its own identity Saab, clean design and signature motifs, such as its wraparound windshield because the theme of light ice blocks, the driver-oriented cockpit and flexible handling .

In true Saab tradition, the 9-4X expresses its sporty character. It is configured around a single, specially designed crossover body structure, which is the key to producing its exceptional handling and ride quality. Car-like driving dynamics to support Saab's advanced all-wheel-drive system, Saab XWD, and the units sense the beginning of the adaptive control.

Under the hood, put a selection of compact and efficient V6 engines, naturally aspirated or turbocharged. The 265 HP, 3.0-liter entry-level model is equipped with direct injection and variable valve timing, while the 300 hp 2.8-liter direct injection for the twin-scroll turbo exchanges and is exclusive high-end Aero variants. Both engines are mated to six-speed automatic under adaptive electronic control.

 

"The Saab 9-4X significantly expands the appeal of the Saab brand," said CEO of Saab Automobile Jan �ke Jonsson. "It gives us entry into the crossover segment of rapid growth with a vehicle that reflects our brand values ??in key areas such as progressive Scandinavian design and the manager sporty driving performance. The Saab 9-4X is an interesting package and we sure will be of interest to many owners of Saab, as well as attract new customers to the brand. "

Saab 9-4X will be available in North America in May 2011, with sales in Europe and other global markets due to begin in August. Pricing will be announced shortly before the sale begins.

Body sculpted Saab

The Saab 9-4X cuts a wide stance and powerful, with clean lines that recall the spirit of Saab's Scandinavian design. Its characteristic facial appearance, together with the new Saab 9-5 sedan, inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car, with profound themes, three-port grille and 'ice block effect of illumination.

 

Disguised breeze and the door pillars to create a wraparound effect Saab signature, stress common graphic marks traditional greenhouse "cockpit" look. Other Saab exterior identifiers include the design of the headlights, a "hockey stick" size and a strong C-pillars with a wraparound effect behind the screen.

The roofline is visually lowered and extended by a spoiler integrated into the tailgate. Rear door light rather than a signature created by the new 9-5 sedan. A bar of "ice block" LED lit covers the bottom of the tailgate and wraps around the light units. Twin exhaust diamond is perfectly integrated into the molding of the bumper lower.

In general, the body of the Saab 9-4X is substantially free of unnecessary decoration or trim. Applied a dark shield is applied to the lower body, but no wheel arch liners or protective devices in the body.

Entry-level models come with 18-inch six-spoke alloy wheels and Aero is distinguished by 20-inch, nine-spoke "turbine" alloy wheels, mesh grille and black.

 

The cockpit-inspired cabin

The spacious cabin offers comfortable accommodation for five adults and is defined by a signature Saab, driver-focused cockpit design. The center console, center console and instrument of the main screen are in a unique way that sweeps around the driver. For the Saab 9-4X is finished with wood or to the inside of the Aero, a carbon fiber effect finish.

Other subtle references to Saab's aviation heritage include a choice, the attitude of the aircraft type reading speed, the green light to the needles of the three main rings and the traditional "joystick" to adjust for Saab vents mesh style . Ignition - a start / stop button - of course, is located between the front seats, in true Saab tradition, next to the gear lever.

Grand, head of support is a standard 8-point power adjustment for driver and an optional power adjustable pedals. Rear passengers enjoy spacious accommodations that space back is not compromised by the presence of a third row of seats. They also have an independent, three-position tilt adjustment of each manual 60/40 split fold.

Onboard storage of a large includes two floors door pockets, glove box before two speeds and a box deep in the center console with 12 volt, USB and AUX. Rear passengers have additional storage space in the rear center console and armrest.

 

Infotainment includes two audio options, a speaker or seven high-end 10-speaker Bose 5.1 surround sound. The 8-inch touch screen optional HDD navigation system includes the display of a bird eye view map and 10 GB of storage space for files 'jukebox' music. Communications on the move is supported by a Bluetooth handsfree phone that works via voice commands and steering wheel and infotainment panel.

In the rear passengers can enjoy an independent air-conditioning, in addition to the standard two-zone system and select your board audio / video entertainment through a dedicated unit behind the center console. This is an auxiliary video input and two 8-inch screens in the rear surface of the front seatbacks.

Adaptable Load

Hull Saab 9-4X is optimized for space and ease of use. 60/40 split backrests fold down in one motion, without having to remove the seat cushions or headrests retractable, which offers a completely flat load platform.

 

The front plane of the frame is hinged and can be opened through the air to form a handle to reveal more storage under the floor. The surface can be adjusted as required by a voluntary, U-shaped track with a load by dividing the telescopic rail, which can be transferred to the desired position to hold items in place.

For added convenience, the tailgate is available in Remote-controlled hydraulic operation. It can be opened completely, or below, the programmable unit if you have limited space above a garage.

On the road

The Saab 9-4X offers as vehicle handling and ride qualities of the crossover segment. Evidence of extensive development of vehicles that compete with the Saab 9-4X shows a level of dynamic performance - racing in the refinement and handling - that challenges the best in its class ..

The key to a great ride is a unique body, specially designed crossover to compromise the application, and a free adaptation of a sedan or wagon form.

 

Conduct advanced technologies include Saab XWD, the sophisticated AWD system, which varies much torque between the front and rear. This system of performance-emption, lighter and faster provides a better grip in all conditions, wet or dry, smooth, in large quantities, on the road or off road. Combined with an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD) that can transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear between the rear wheels, some had more grip

The driver of the vehicle and the Aero closer to each other in drive Saab sense, the beginning of the adaptive function, which uses real-time shock to help the Saab 9-4X to react to how it is managed, and changing road conditions. In addition, the default option is "intelligent", the driver can choose the "Comfort" and "Sport" mode. "Eco-mode, activated by a separate button to re-map models of gas and gear for optimum fuel economy.

Other driver aids variable-assist steering, a feature common-sense operating Saab, and standard bi-xenon adaptive lights, which provide better lighting turns to come by attaching the direction of the angle orientation of the beam headlights.

 

Efficient power supply

The assembly includes two powerful drive all-aluminum V6 engines, both six-speed automatic transmission and Saab XWD. These lightweight and compact, 24-valve engine has variable valve timing on intake and exhaust side, and characterized by a higher power in the engine size.

265 hp (195 kW), 3.0-liter normally aspirated basic specification includes a direct fuel injection engine. It pushes the Saab 9-4X from zero to 100 km / h in just 9.0 seconds.

 

Available exclusively on Aero specification, 2.8-liter turbo engine packs 300 hp (221 kW) and produces an impressive 400 Nm of torque spread between 2000 and 5000 rpm. It provides a zero to 100 km / h acceleration of 8.3 seconds. The fuel consumption of both engines are still being finalized.

Leading safety performance

Excellent comprehensive security solid results, and Saab 9-4X has over 50 years of experience in working with Saab occupant protection. Crash tests and computer simulations are based on Saab's what happens in real collisions on real roads. Many in-house test developed by Saab, are those that are legally required or carried out by consumer testing organizations.

The success of the work is reflected in Saab's Collision Investigation of real-life U.S. Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) and the Swedish insurance company Folksam Saab, who have always worked well on several occasions to be ranked in segment. The Saab 9-3 sedan and the new 9.5 is also a maximum five star EuroNCAP crash test performers.

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2012 Porsche Panamera S Hybrid Review

Porsche Panamera Hybrid S marks the beginning of a new chapter in Porsche's smart performance and the continued success of the four-door Gran Turismo. Without giving up its dynamic and elegant sports driving trip for four passengers, the new Porsche Panamera Hybrid S combines a total power of 380 hp (kW 279) with CO2 emissions of just 159 g / km, making a ratio of CV yield of 2.39 g / CO2, which is unbeaten in the British car market.

Apart from 0-62 mph in 6.0 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph, the Porsche Panamera returns fuel economy of 30.4mpg combined S hybrid. These statistical position of the Porsche Panamera Hybrid S offers impressive levels of efficiency through a combination of smart engineering solutions under the skin and the use of tires with low rolling resistance Michelin specially developed.

The range in pure electric mode is approximately 1.25 miles of driving in this mode, up to 53 km / h, depending on road and traffic conditions. Porsche Hybrid Drive is the only system in the world, able to exploit reserves increased consumption due to the "veil" function. During the phases where no power is required of the combustion engine, means "veil" to turn off the engine and disconnect the gear system with speeds up to 103 mph (Hybrid Cayenne S 97 mph).

Porsche Panamera Hybrid S is powered by the same engine combination that has already proven in the Cayenne S Hybrid, a model that already accounts for one fifth of sales in Britain a Cayenne. The main propulsion is provided by a supercharged V6 engine with three-liter 333 hp (245 kW), driven by 47 HP (34 kW) electric motor. Both power units are capable of driving the hybrid Panamera S either alone or in combination. The electric motor also functions as a starter and a generator. In collaboration with the separation of the clutch, compact hybrid module formed located between the combustion engine and transmission.

The electric motor is connected to a nickel metal hydride (NiMH), where the electrical energy recovered during braking is stored and conduct. Power transmission is ensured by the familiar eight-speed Tiptronic S, with a wide distribution of reports that are already mounted on the Cayenne.

Each Panamera is a high standard of functionality, such as leather seats, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Bi-Xenon headlights, front and rear ParkAssist, tire pressure monitoring, auto-dimming mirrors, Porsche Communication Management, with touch-screen satellite navigation and audio controls, cruise control and a three-year warranty. Porsche Panamera Hybrid S is also adaptive air suspension as standard, as well as innovative displays - already seen in the Cayenne Hybrid - which provides the driver with all the important information on employment of the hybrid vehicle specific vehicle.

With the introduction of new hybrid Panamera will now consist of six different models with a choice between two and four wheel drive and four engines. This diversity reflects the changing preferences of customers and sales success of the Porsche Panamera is already confirmed. About 15 months after sales began, about 30,000 cars are delivered worldwide, including more than 1000 have been in Britain.

Porsche Panamera Hybrid S goes on sale in the United Kingdom in June 2011, prices from � 86,146. Low emissions of 159 g / km of CO2 emissions is particularly important to car buyers and fleet, because it is located under the Company's Allowance to write on the eve of 160g/km. This means that the purchase of the company, the price can be reduced by a tax of 20% per annum.

Equipped with all the Panamera is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking (VTS), a set of sophisticated vehicle safety approved Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will be able to explore the potential of your new car, to participate in a free course Porsche experience at Silverstone.

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