As Spyker and General Motors get ever closer to finalizing the Saab deal, Spyker management is getting ever closer to finalizing Saab’s future product plans. The big news: Saab lovers can expect an all-new lineup when the reorganized company begins selling vehicles again later this year.
This will include the 2010 Saab 9-5, developed by General Motors using the same proven, high-quality platform that underpins both the 2010 Buick LaCrosse and Opel Insignia. Marking the first comprehensive overhaul of the 9-5 since its introduction waaaaay back in 1997, the new model was introduced to much fanfare in September of 2009 at the Frankfurt International Auto Show and has continued to receive development attention from GM since then. As a result, Spyker is expecting to be able to ramp up production relatively quickly; the company is to get the new 9-5 to dealerships this spring.
Next will be the all-new 9-4X, a mid-size crossover that also continues to leverage GM’s Saab work and will share a platform with the popular Cadillac SRX crossover. Despite this, the 9-4X will be a much “Saab-ier” attempt to reach SUV customers than the badge-engineered Saab 9-7X, with a high beltline, blacked-out B pillars and a smoothly integrated front fascia that maintains the new Saab look previewed on the next 9-5. Pre-production test vehicles had already been built by GM before that company began winding down Saab, which, again, will help with timing. Customers can expect to see the 9-4X early in 2011.
Then, come 2012, Spyker plans to unveil an all-new, “all-Saab” 9-3. Reading between the lines here, that likely means it will be developed in house, instead of in Detroit via GM. That’s great news for Saab fans who think the current 9-3 is a little low on quirkiness, as is the fact that a “hatchback” is on the company’s product list. Spyker also is trying to build a business case for a Saab 9-1, a smaller line that would slot under the 9-3.
It’s an ambitious strategy, but remember Spyker’s motto: “For the tenacious, no road is impassable.”
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More news on Saab’s new lineup.
