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Saab 9-X: Parisienne Fresh AirSaab previews its concept drop-top

24 September 2008

Saab 9-X Air

Saab is rolling out its convertible for the future at the Paris Motor Show.

The 9-X Air concept combines classic Saab styling cues with a new roof design and futuristic detailing.

The ‘Canopy Top’ convertible roof uses unusually high rear buttresses to create an open-air experience that still protects passengers from buffeting winds. As a result, the 9-X Air looks somewhat like a saloon or coupe with the top cut off.

Protected from elements

Protecting occupants from the elements when necessary is a powered fabric roof that folds away into the boot area, with a separate rear screen that slides up and down between the buttresses.

Saab has made a patent application for the design, so we may see something similar on the roads in the future.

Saab 9-X Air

Design elements of the 9-X Air may also hint at the appearance of future Saab models, while the concept also showcases wireless Bluetooth technology.

Under the bonnet is a 1.4-litre turbocharged biofuel engine combined with hybrid technology, producing 197bhp and capable of 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds. In spite of this impressive performance, predicted CO2 emissions are just 107g/km.

It is very unlikely we will be seeing anything like this in Saab dealerships soon, however. Other far-fetched details include green three-dimensional graphics for the instruments, and a slide out drawer in place of a conventional boot.

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