Saab Adds AWD to More 2009 Models
Saab first offered all-wheel drive on the compact 9-3 sedan and wagon for the 2008 model year. The option was limited to Aero trims and a limited edition Turbo X, however, which only come with six-cylinder engines and sit atop the 9-3 lineup in terms of pricing.
For 2009, Saab makes its AWD — called XWD — available on less-expensive Saab 9-3 models, including the 9-3 Sport Sedan 2.0T and SportCombi 2.0T wagon, which use a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. These new XWD trims are priced at $34,870 and $36,285, respectively.
Opting for XWD on 9-3 2.0T trims costs about a $6,000 premium over the front-wheel-drive versions, but for that you also get a moonroof, an automatic transmission and a winter package with heated seats and headlamp washers. A six-speed manual is optional.
Saab’s XWD is capable of sending up to 100 percent of the engine’s torque to the front or rear wheels. XWD is an on-demand system that only sends power to the rear wheels when needed, which Saab says limits its impact on fuel economy. Fuel economy estimates for the 2009 four-cylinder trims aren’t available yet. There is also no mention of the high-performance TurboX making a return to the 9-3 lineup.
Saab 2009 Pricing, excludes $775 destination charge
- 9-3 2.0T Sport Sedan — $28,835
- 9-3 2.0T SportCombi — $30,265
- 9-3 2.0T XWD Sport Sedan — $34,870
- 9-3 2.0T XWD SportCombi — $36,285
- 9-3 Aero V6T XWD Sport Sedan — $41,885
- 9-3 Aero V6T XWD SportCombi — $43,165
- 9-3 2.0T Convertible — $40,605
- 9-3 Aero V6T Convertible — $49,610
