Saab will not re-badge any Opel models in the same manner that Saturn does, says GM Europe design chief Bryan Nesbitt. In an interview with AutoWeek Nesbitt was quoted as saying, “the Saturn-Opel situation is a straight swap even in design, but the Saab-Opel swap is purely beneath the skin.” Recently, we reported that Saab was considering building a vehicle based on the Opel Astra. Mr. Nesbitt’s comments should quell any fears that Saab further lose its brand identity. Nesbitt also confirmed that a production car inspired by the Saab Aero X Concept will see the light of day in the next couple years, “once some new global architectures become final.” Recently, we cited a published report that Audi was planning an Audi TT rival based on the design of the Aero X.
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04/27, 1:06 PM
posted by:
Downshift
It’s funny that GM would make that decision because, as the Saabaru 9-2 and the GMSaab 9-7 demonstrate, Saab is a great brand to brand engineer. The Saab nose is so distinctive, it really transforms the donor model.
04/27, 4:12 PM
posted by:
TW
I don’t think the 9-2 sold that well. Why pay a premium for the name when you know its something else. I have yet to see a 9-7.
04/27, 6:42 PM
posted by:
JoJohn
I would say that the nose is distinctive, but a good example of the limitations is on the SUV, it looks like a buick with the Saab grill, as a saab fan I’m not sure who would buy that saab SUV – if it’s supposed to compete with the BMW SUV or Lexus they should have done the whole thing independently – the fact that you can tell it’s a buick with a new grill I think would make any upscale buyer laugh. Also, I think there is only so much you can do when given another car to reskin, even the best will end up not being that different – the tailights on the “Saabaru” are pure Suburu. I hope that Saab doesn’t become just another version of the latest Chevy or Pontiac.
04/27, 10:28 PM
posted by:
manny
the 9-2 seems to sell mostly to women, according to reports…
though they will still technically badge-engineer, only with actual engineering. they will actually make the car look unique instead of changing the badge…
04/28, 12:59 AM
posted by:
BAMF
Holy crap! Audi is planning an Audi TT rival?
04/28, 10:06 AM
posted by:
Eric
Bloody hell Saab, learn to design and make your own cars for once!