The world of $40,000-$45,000 entry luxury SUVs offers lots of worthy choices that have been designed from the ground up, and lots of others that have been adapted for the task at hand, either from cars or trucks. We think the Saab 9-7X is by far the best iteration of the GMT 360 platform, regardless of brand name, and we think the price is right for either the I6 or V8 models. And you can get serviced and fixed at a nice, quiet Saab dealership instead of a Chevy store.
New Car Test Drive correspondent Jim McCraw filed this report from Quebec City.
air conditioning, power steering, power disc brakes with ABS, air suspension, power windows, power locks, console, cruise control, message center, trip computer, floor shift, fog lamps, OnStar, XM Satellite Radio
Options as tested (MSRP):
none
Destination charge:
N/A
Gas guzzler tax:
N/A
Price as tested (MSRP):
$38,990
Layout:
all-wheel drive
Engine:
4.2-liter dohc 24-valve inline-6
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
290 @ 6000
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
277 @ 3600
Transmission:
4-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
15/21 mpg
Wheelbase:
113.0 in.
Length/width/height:
193.2/75.4/68.5 in.
Track, f/r:
63.1/62.1 in.
Turning circle:
37.4 ft.
Seating capacity:
5
Head/hip/leg room, f:
40.2/55.5/41.4 in.
Head/hip/leg room, m:
N/A
Head/hip/leg room, r:
39.6/58.1/37.1 in.
Cargo volume:
80 cu. ft.
Payload:
N/A
Towing capacity:
6500 Lbs.
Suspension, f:
independent, double A-arms
Suspension, r:
solid axle and 5-link
Ground clearance:
7.7 in.
Curb weight:
4770 lbs.
Tires:
P255/55R18
Brakes, f/r:
disc/disc with ABS, EBD
Fuel capacity:
22.0 gal.
Unless otherwise indicated, specifications refer to test vehicle.
All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) effective as of June 10, 2005.
Prices do not include manufacturer's destination and delivery charges.
N/A: Information not available or not applicable.
Manufacturer Info Sources:
800-955-9007 -
www.gm.com/saab
