What is it? The 9-4x BioPower concept gives us a glimpse of the design cues likely to be seen in the 9-4 production vehicle, Saab's first car-based SUV. The four-seat concept is just the latest vehicle from General Motors to champion E85, but in this case the engine is actually optimized for the biofuel.
That engine drives all four wheels using the same system that will be available in the updated 9-3 sedan and wagon. Like systems from Acura and BMW, the AWD system will send torque front to rear as needed, but also split it between the rear wheels to improve handling. Safety gear includes electronic stability control and a rollover-sensing system that will deploy the curtain air bags when needed.
What is new or notable? The aluminum 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine is said to deliver 300 hp and 295 ft-lbs of torque using E85. It will only generate 245 hp and 260 ft-lbs of torque using gasoline.
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
|
