2006 SAAB 97X Published 02/16/2006

We could never pronounce Svenska Aero Aktiebolaget, so in 1937 aircraft engineers helping protect Sweden's neutrality in WWII called their company SAAB. After the war, Saab engineers turned their attention to the more peaceful pursuit of building cars. By 1947 a quirky little 92 with a two cylinder-two cycle engine was found in showrooms. Over the next 60 years Saab firmly established a reputation for performance, durability and safety.

By the 1990's aircraft production and car production were separated and General Motors entered into a joint venture with the Swedish automobile maker. The last 16 years have been difficult, as GM's involvement with this specialty automaker has failed to live up to expectations.

Sales have increased but Saab is still viewed as a boutique automaker with limited production numbers. Many feel the influence of General Motors has confused and diluted the unique identity of Saab. But in the modern world technology and platform sharing is a necessity for automakers.

Saab offers seven distinct models as the lineup continues to grow. The 9-2 is often dubbed the "Saabaru" because it shares a platform with the Subaru Outback WRX. Available in either a turbo charged 2.5-liter or a naturally aspirated four cylinder engine the Saab 92X is the only car available with a non-turbo engine.

The Saab 9-3 family comes in three configurations including a sedan, convertible and the new Sportcombi five-door. While the 93 engines are turbocharged, the 93 Aero pumps out an astounding 250 horsepower from just four cylinders. General Motors has used much of the 93 architecture in the Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6 and upcoming Saturn Aura.

Saab's flagship models are the turbocharged 95 Sedan and 95 Sportcombi wagons. The only model not offered with a turbo charged engine is the Saab 97X SUV.

I drove the 2006 Saab 97X this week and was pleasantly surprised. The Saab 97X shares the GMT 360 platform and components with the Chevy Trailblazer, GMC Envoy and Buick Rainier. At first glance it's little more than a Chevrolet Trailblazer with a Saab fascia and ignition switch moved to the console between the seats. It does not share Saab's turbocharged performance technology and offers the only V8 engine in Saab history. It looks American and is General Motors through and through. But it didn't drive like a Trailblazer.

Saab tweaked the 97X suspension giving it a lower stance and more of a sports car feel than its domestic cousins. Around town and in the winding curves of a country road this drives more like a Saab than I expected. Above 65 MPH highway speeds I noticed a disappointing amount of noise for a luxury brand.

I drove the 300 horsepower, 330 lb. ft. torque, Displacement on Demand, V8 engine and was pleasantly surprised at the responsive feel. Equipped to tow up to 6,500 pounds the 2006 Saab 97X is ready to hook up to that bass boat for the summer. A 290 horsepower six cylinder is available as well.

The 2006 Saab 97X is an All Wheel Drive unit rather than a Four Wheel Drive unit found on the Trailblazer. Normally this means that if you are going to be off-roading, you want the 4X4. If most of your driving is on paved roads the AWD is preferred. The Swedish tradition for safety is still important so Stabilitrac, Limited Slip Differential, OnStar and Side Curtain Airbags are standard equipment.

Aside from the minor styling and handling advantages, the 2006 Saab 97X is a great value for the dollar. Saab is a premium luxury brand normally not associated with low price. However the MSRP on my 2006 Saab 97X test vehicle was only $41,240. The only two options not include were Navigation and Rear Seat Entertainment System. All other luxuries including Power Adjustable Pedals, and Heater Leather Seats were standard equipment. If ordered separately on the Chevy or GMC these options would have pushed the price beyond the 2006 Saab 97X. Combined this value with the standard 4 year/50,000 Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty and the 2006 Saab 97X is my pick for this platform.

Saab 97X

Mid Size All Wheel Drive SUV

5.3Liter V8 engine
300 Horsepower

$41,240 MSRP as Driven

15/20 MPG

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