Saab Turbo X will be limited

SAAB Australia has revealed full pricing and specifications for the hotly-anticipated Turbo X version of its mid-size 9-3 range, but it turns out to be a limited-edition affair.

Just 25 examples of the all-wheel drive Turbo X sports sedan will be available between June and September this year, priced at $88,800 ($91,300 for the automatic), while only five Turbo X SportCombi wagons will be sold, priced at $91,300 (auto: $93,800).



Representing an $18,200 premium over the similarly-engined 9-3 Aero flagship, the 2.8-litre turbocharged V6-powered Turbo X is the first model to be fitted with Saab’s new “cross wheel drive” (XWD) system, which features an active limited-slip rear differential (dubbed eLSD) that can direct up to 50 per cent of maximum torque to the rear wheels.

Apart from its turbo V6 and AWD system, the Turbo X is differentiated from garden-variety 9-3s by a sports-tuned suspension system, matt-grey titanium-look grille accents, a deeper front lip spoiler and twin “rhomboid-shaped” exhaust outlets, plus new rear bumpers and spoilers.

Available only in jet black metallic paint colour, the Turbo X comes with unique 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch wheels can be had ex-factory for an extra $2250), black leather-clad sports seats (premium natural leather is a $4000 option), a thicker-rimmed leather steering wheel and carbon-look highlights on the fascia, door inserts, glovebox and gearshift console.

Finally, as part of its homage to the original 900 Turbo, the Turbo X features a replica of that car’s boost gauge, as well as a personalised greeting in the main instrument display, which presents a “ready for take-off” message comprising the owner’s name and the car’s build number, as programmed by its supplying dealer.

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