Last updated 15:49, Wednesday, 13 February 2008

SAAB celebrated three decades of leadership in turbo-charging at this year’s Frankfurt Inter-national Motor Show by launching the Saab Turbo X, a driver-focused performance car that set new standards for the brand.

This black limited-edition model takes Saab evokes the iconic appeal of its first black 900 Turbo and introducing innovative Saab XWD technology.

It was announced exactly 30 years after Saab revealed its first turbocharged model which set a trend other manufacturers were to follow. Now Saab unleashes turbo power for the first time through Saab XWD, a all-wheel drive system that Saab claims sets performance standards competitors will also seek to emulate.

With 400 Nm of torque from its 280 hp/ 206 kW 2.8 V6 turbo engine, the Turbo X is the ultimate performance expression of the new Saab 9-3 range. Saab XWD features active management that not only splits torque delivery between both axles, but also between the rear wheels. This responsive system delivers a level of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control never seen before from Saab.

In addition to tuning of the suspension and its electronic chassis, throttle and powertrain settings, the Turbo X features distinctive styling additions that enhance aerodynamic performance.

Available in Saloon or SportWagon body styles, the Saab Turbo X limited edition features the launch of Saab XWD. First customer deliveries are expected during the second quarter of next year.

The driving benefits of the XWD system are best appreciated out on the open road. Data from the ABS/ESP sensors – measuring wheel speed, yaw rate and steering angle – is utilised by the Saab XWD control module. Rear drive is instantly applied to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics, improving stability and roadholding.

Driver control is taken a step further on the Turbo X by the eLSD, the first application of an electronically-controlled, rear limited slip differential in this segment of the market. It uses inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40 per cent of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip. When cornering hard, this yaw damping effect helps the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

To exploit the full benefits of Saab XWD, the chassis of the Turbo X has been lowered 10 mm and the springs and dampers stiffened to minimise body movement. To maintain a constant ride height irrespective of load, self-levelling dampers are fitted at the rear.

Stopping power is also increased with larger brake discs fitted: internally ventilated (345 mm diameter x 30 mm) at the front and externally ventilated (292 mm diameter x 20 mm) at the rear. Standard 235/45 R-18 tyres ensure excellent mechanical grip for the 18-inch alloy wheels.

The powerhouse is a 24-valve, 2.8-litre V6 turbo engine generating 400 Nm of torque between 2,150 and 4,500 rpm and maximum power of 280 hp (206 kW) at 5,500 rpm. It is offered with six-speed manual or auto-matic transmission. Distinctive styling additions are designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency, as well as emphasise the Turbo X’s performance focus.

The Turbo X is further distinguished by unique, 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch available as an option. Twin, rhomboid-shaped tailpipes complete the exterior additions. Inside, the ‘black turbo’ theme is continued throughout. The sports seating, with additional bolstering, is upholstered entirely in black leather. There is a carbon-fibre finish to the main fascia, and other areas.

This limited edition model comes to the UK in March.