Saab caught my eye when I was a teenager. I was done with high school, and my mother recommended (because the family was with the General) I take a look at the Swedish cars, hearing their glowing reputation. Even though Saabs took a beating from so-called car guys, I found them to be enjoyable, yet properly understated. The styling of the cars, especially the 9-3, was hip. The chin spoiler gave it a sporty look, the body lines were clean, and the color palette could stand out if you wanted.

I'm not as keen with the recent facelift.  For starters, I was attached to the previous look.  Second, I could accept the exterior alteration if there was more done to change the car itself.  I love the Aero-X concept car; but I don't think the shape looks right on Saab's bread & butter sedans.  The cosmetic aspect was what drew me to the marque; now that's lost.

There are some positive signs.  GM is doing what it can to make its present lineup more interesting to a wider demo.  What sucks is that GM can't get a break.  People ponder on the flaws, rather than on what the product is.  I can only go by what I have read and seen, and the Turbo X is the most interesting Saab to emerge from North Europe since the Sonnett III.  I see Steven's point with reference to the BMW 335i being a better vehicle.  BMW is the standard, but Saab is making headway.

One shouldn't forget Saab employed all-wheel-drive with the Subie-based 9-2X, with a poor reception from the public.  I'm sad over that fiasco.  The 9-3 is out of my price range, but a smaller model (especially with all-wheel-drive) for under $25K would do wonders for this fading make. 

• Thu, 07/17/2008 - 23:18
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Hey Kroum,

Like you I shopped the BMW lot and pulled the trigger on the Turbo X.

I am pretty sure I will not pass too many in NS!

• Mon, 09/29/2008 - 12:57
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