Saab planning hatchback concept, special edition 9-3s for Geneva show

Saab says it will debut a new concept car, as well as a pair of production model special editions, at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.

In addition to the world premier of its 9-5 SportCombi, Saab says that it is going to unveil a new concept hatchback at the Geneva Motor Show in early March. The first vehicle penned by new Saab design director Jason Castriota, the concept car previews an upcoming production model for Saab.

Likely a preview of the automaker's next-generation 9-3, the concept car is clearly a hatchback and is probably powered by a turbocharged BMW-sourced four-cylinder gasoline engine. A hybrid powertrain is also possible, although any suggestion is mere speculation at this point.

The car will probably feature some of Saab's General Motors-era design cues, but Castriota will no doubt put his personal touch on the vehicle.

Aside from the concept car, Saab will also debut two special edition models - a red-painted 9-3 Independence Edition convertible and a performance-oriented 9-3 Griffin sedan. The two special editions could drum up crucial consumer interest in Saab's existing products and both celebrate the automaker's independence from GM, which occurred just one year ago when Spyker bought the brand.

For now, Saab has only released images of the concept with a car cover over it.

The two special editions will debut on February 23 ahead of the show, while we'll have to wait until March 1 for the concept car.


References
1.'Saab's Geneva cars...' view