With Saab now under the full control of Spyker , the Swedish car maker is rekindling thoughts of an entry-level premium model to take on the vehicles like the Volvo C30 , Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series .
While the new model is still a few years out, Spyker CEO Victor Muller revealed in a recent interview that Saab’s entry-level model has a “better than average chance†of making production. The new model would go a long way in helping Saab to achieve its target of selling 120,000 vehicles annually — up from its 20,800 sales last year.
While Muller failed to give away any more details on Saab ’s possible entry-level model, the future offering would likely be based on the Saab 9-X BioHybrid concept. Bowing at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, it was thought that the 9-X BioHybrid would eventually make production as the 9-1.
The 9-X BioHybrid was powered by a 1.4L turbocharged engine mated to an electric hybrid system. Saab’s divorce from GM probably means the hybrid system is off the table, but it remains possible the 9-1 could retain its 1.4L powerplant. GM’s 1.4L will be used in the Chevrolet Cruze and the Chevrolet Volt .
Saab’s product portfolio will be completely refreshed by 2012, including new versions of the 9-5 and 9-3, along with the all-new 9-4X crossover for 2011.
References
1. ‘Saab aims to add…’ view
