Used 2011 SAAB 9-4X SUV Review & Ratings

Despite all the drama Saab has been through the past couple of years, including being left behind by General Motors and bought by Victor Muller of the Spyker company, the company still hasn't lost its motivation to make outstanding cars. The 9-5 is a testament to that dedication, as is the new Saab 9-4X SUV, a new crossover that was first released in 2011.

The SAAB 9-4X is available in three trims, including 3.0i, 3.0i Premium and Aero. The 3.0i and 3.0i Premium are powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 265 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. These models are equipped with a six speed automatic and are capable of accelerating zero to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds, which is a bit sluggish. Front-wheel drive is standard by all-wheel drive is optional. The Aero trim is equipped with a 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 engine to offer 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite this improved power, acceleration speed is only improved by about half a second. Properly equipped, the SAAB 9-4X can tow p to 3,500 pounds.

What the vehicle lacks in acceleration and passing power, it makes up for it by offering a smooth ride to all passengers, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension. This allows the vehicle to absorb bumps and holes in the road by one tire without transferring it to the others. Handling is comfortable, but there has been concern of a bit of body roll on turns.

As far as safety is concerned, the SAAB 9-4X SUV is packed full of safety features to offer peace-of-mind to drivers on the road. Just a few of these include child seat anchors, emergency braking assist, rear door safety locks, engine immobilizer, stability and traction control, electronic brakeforce distribution, post-collision safety system, emergency braking preparation, tire pressure monitoring and a whiplash protection system in the front head restraints.

The 9-4X is a five seat crossover. It was made back when Saab was still part of General Motors. Saab was spun off when GM was dealing with difficult financial issues. The Saab SUV was not marketed well by GM as a result. A newly independent Saab is now finally ready to roll out its crossover SUV.

Saab is now separated from General Motors, but the companies aren't completely free of each other, and that's particularly true in the case of the 9-4X. The 9-4X is being built alongside the Cadillac SRX at a GM facility in Mexico. The two are similar with the same V6 engine, six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive option.