Saab 9X Air concept hints at next-generation 9-3 convertible

The Saab 9-X BioHybrid Concept seen at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show was said to hint at a future compact model from Saab that would compete with the likes of the BMW 1-Series and Audi’s A3. Next week at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, the Saab 9-X BioHybrid will drop its top and will be called the 9-X Air BioHybrid Concept.

Instead of hinting at a convertible compact model that will compete with the 1-Series and A3 convertible Saab says that the 9-X Air concept hints at the next-generation 9-3 Convertible that will arrive in 2010.

“The 9-X Air shows what the next 9-3 convertible could be like,” Saab’s managing director Jan-Ake Jonsson told AutoWeek.

The 9-X Air Concept is powered by the same 1.4L turbocharged engine that makes 200-hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. The engine should be good for returning 37 mpg on E85 and 48 mpg on standard gasoline. Jonsson says that small turbo engines are the future of Saab but hasn’t confirmed whether they will be offered in the next-generation 9-3 lineup.

Saab 9-X Air BioHybrid Concept:

 

 

Source: AutoWeek