SAAB

Did you know that SAAB is actually an acronym? According to their official website, it comes from "Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget," meaning "Swedish Aircraft Company." Founded by 16 aircraft engineers who began manufacturing cars in 1950, Saab's design philosophy is inspired by cockpit-like interiors, ergonomics, and distinctive aerodynamic styling. Saabs were first exported to the United States in 1957, and in the 1980s, Saabs became nearly synonymous with the yuppy (young urban professional) generation. Now part of General Motors (which acquired a 50% share of Saab in 1990 and the remainder in 2000), two of Saab's four vehicles share a platform with other GM divisions.

Saab's line of luxury vehicles includes the all-wheel drive 9-2 (based on the Subaru Impreza), the 9-3 (which comes in Sport Sedan, Convertible, SportoCombi models), the 9-5 (which comes in Sedan and SportCombi models), and the 9-7 sport utility vehicle. Saab vehicles combine efficiency, functionality, and easily-recognizable Saab signature style with an impressive list of standard safety features and options such as turbo-charged engines and lowered sport-tuned chassis. Consumers consistently comment on the spaciousness of the trunk and the speed of acceleration, and Saab has improved on problems with torque steer and driveline vibration in more recent models. Except for the 9-2 (which offers a 2-year or 24000 mile no-charge scheduled maintenance program), all Saab models are covered for 3-years or 36000 miles.

According to Edmunds, the 9-2X is simply a more attractively-styled and more expensive version of its Japanese cousin, the Subaru Impreza. The 2007 9-3 front-wheel drive Sport Sedan (Saab's entry-level mid-size luxury four-door vehicle) offers a newly-styled instrument panel, as well as the option for OnStar security and roadside assistance. According to Car and Driver, the new 9-3 has a cool cabin, distinctive styling, and plenty of leg room for the rear seat. However, its suspension and handling detract from the comfort of the ride, and the 9-3 is more expensive than many of its competitors, particularly if you want to add options. Introduced in 2006, the 9-7X is Saab's first SUV and first ever vehicle available with a V8 engine - it's a more luxurious version of the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and it offers a retuned suspension, more responsive handling, and a European-inspired cabin.

Consumers often comment that Saabs are designed and built around the driver, with an instrument panel that is angled toward the driver and subtle Saab signature features such as the hidden cupholder. In fact, the contributions of Saab designers and engineers to the automotive industry include turbo-charged technology, side-impact protection systems, heated seats, cabin air filters, and headlight washers. These contributions reflect Saab's commitment to innovation, not only in technology, but also in driver functionality and comfort. A few words of caution from previous Saab owners - the cabin can be noisy, climate control is poor, manual transmission can be unreliable, trim pieces seem to fall off easily, and if your engine burns out, you need to have detailed records of every service ever performed on the vehicle or the dealer won't be able to help you, even with a warranty.

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