Saab 9-2 == A better WRX?

[JunkPunch]

I read a couple news items about the upcoming Saab 9-2. Basically it's going to be an Impreza with a Saab skin and interior. GM owns Saab and GM owns part of Fuji Heavy Industries (who makes Subaru) so they are going to make this new "small" car for Saab.

Apparently the "Aero" version will have the WRX engine and drivetrain. Now, the only reason I didn't buy a WRX was because it's hideously ugly and has a crappy interior. While I don't LOVE Saab design and interiors, I am really hoping they can make something less ugly, and with a much better quality interior. In any event, it will be nice to have another choice in that segment.

 

[chuyler1]

I love everything about the SAAB interior except the ignition on the floor (they still do that right?). They are designed for tall people like me, and when you're in the driver's seat it feels like the cockpit of an airplane (since SAAB also makes airplanes). However, now that Ford has control, I would expect to see some radical changes in the interior.

I considered getting an old 900 for a winter beater but there isn't a good SAAB mechanic around here (unless I wanted to go a dealer). There was a great one in Ithaca where I went to school though.

 

[loj68]

damn, if they really put the WRX goodies under a SAAB I'd definitely be in the running to buy one. I drove WRX's too but chose the MSP because of more headroom, better looks, and better interior as well. The other SAAB turbo's though have a GM engine with SAAB turbo bits and goodies.....I wouldn't touch those with a 10 foot pole.

 

[mazdadan]

I love everything about the SAAB interior except the ignition on the floor (they still do that right?). They are designed for tall people like me, and when you're in the driver's seat it feels like the cockpit of an airplane (since SAAB also makes airplanes). However, now that Ford has control, I would expect to see some radical changes in the interior.

I almost bought a SAAB 9-3 when I was looking at vehicles a few years back. It still had the ignition next to the shifter in the center console. If it's a manual, the shifter has to be in Reverse to start it. Talk about weird. Another weird but good thing on SAABs are the rear brakes. Most of them have a rear disc/drum combination. The drums are connected to the ebrake and the discs are part of the regular braking system.

 

[flat_black]

Actually, Subaru's are like that, too, for quite a few of the cars; My SVX has rear disk/drum, the drum being only used for the hand brake. The Legacy's share this, as does the Honda Accord, and quite a few other cars. =) Just a tidbit for all of you who care, or not. Heh.

 

[mazdadan]

Actually, Subaru's are like that, too, for quite a few of the cars; My SVX has rear disk/drum, the drum being only used for the hand brake. The Legacy's share this, as does the Honda Accord, and quite a few other cars. =) Just a tidbit for all of you who care, or not. Heh.

Yeah, i've seen it on other vehicles too, not just SAABs. I just figured i'd point out a few things that were out of the norm compared to most other cars on the road. When you think about it, the design is very reliable.

 

[rx7gslse]

They are designed for tall people like me, and when you're in the driver's seat it feels like the cockpit of an airplane (since SAAB also makes airplanes). However, now that Ford has control, I would expect to see some radical changes in the interior.

Uhh... Saab is GM controled, not Ford... Ford took Volvo.

 

[kurt]

The key sits on the floor, so that when the ignition is turned off, and the key is removed, the transmission is locked in reverse; making the car very difficult to steal. It's also difficult to access the ignition box with it stuffed down between the seats. Corvettes utilized a reverse lockout and reverse only key removal for a few years if I remember.

And yes, GM has a stake in SAAB, not Ford.

 

[Black Majik MSP]

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