2009 Saab 9-7X

Saab, once a purveyor of vehicles that defined 'quirky,' 'off-beat' and 'unique' (there, we used all three superlatives), has taken a significantly more mainstream approach since the Swedish automaker was fully taken under General Motors' control in 2000. The 9-7x sport-utility vehicle is the most obvious example of the watering down of the brand.

Based on the GMT360 body-on-frame truck platform that has spawned the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, Oldsmobile Bravada, Isuzu Ascender and Buick Rainier, the 9-7x is Saab's first foray outside of traditional sports coupes, wagons and sedans. The 9-7x is built alongside its GM twins in Lorraine, Ohio, a long way from Sweden.

The 9-7x stands out as the most thoroughly unique member of the GMT360 platform family, thanks to a heavily revised interior based on modern Saab design cues and a lowered and stiffened suspension. The powertrain options are unmodified from the other GMT360 variants.

Inside, the 9-7x gets a unique interior with a center console-mounted ignition switch, a pop-out cupholder taken from the 9-5, and swivel-style air vents. Curtain side airbags, and stability control with rollover sensors highlight standard safety features.

The 9-7x's interior is derivative of the now-defunct Oldsmobile Bravada more than any other GMT360, though front and rear fascias are unique.

The standard motor in the 4.2i model is GM's 4.2 liter inline-six-cylinder engine, which puts out 285 horsepower and 276 lb-ft. of torque. The 5.3i model features a 5.3 liter V8 that puts out an even 300 horsepower and 321 lb-ft. of torque. New for 2008 is a top-end Aero model, which features a 6.0 liter V8 engine producing 390 horsepower and 395 lb-ft. of torque. All three engine options mate up to a four-speed automatic transmission, though the Aero's transmission has been upgraded to handle the prodigious torque. The V8 models feature cylinder de-activation designed to improve highway fuel economy.

Standard equipment on the 4.2i includes leather upholstery, heated power seats up front, a moonroof, a Bose audio system with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, 18' wheels, an automatic-leveling suspension and GM's OnStar system. An available Prestige Package adds power-adjustable pedals and Xenon headlamps. The only other options include a navigation system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and polished alloy wheels.

The 5.3i upgrades the 4.2i with the Prestige Package.

The new-for-2008 Aero includes the aforementioned performance upgrade, plus 20' wheels, embroidered front seats and a Torsen center differential.

The 9-7x's future is uncertain because the unibody, car-based 9-4x previewed at the North American International Auto Show is seen as a replacement for the less efficient, trucklike 9-7x.