20 May 08 16:11
The long-awaited new-generation Saab 9-5 is to finally make its debut late next year, reports Automotive News - but in a break with Saab tradition, it will be built at the Opel plant in Ruesselsheim, Germany.
The new 9-5 will share its 'Epsilon II' underpinnings with the upcoming Vauxhall/Opel Insignia, though as with the current 9-3 and Vectra, the two models will be clearly differentiated with exclusive suspension design, different steering racks, different electronics and unique interior design.
Features will include Saab's XWD four-wheel-drive system - as in the current 9-3 - and electronic limited-slip differential, and engines including ethanol-compatible Biopower units will be offered. Expect the new 260bhp V6 diesel as in the Insignia.
The 9-5 will be formally unveiled at the September 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales following shortly after. Meanwhile, the delayed new 9-3 is also still under development; this will now share GM's Delta platform with the next-generation Vauxhall/Opel Astra, Chevrolet Lacetti and other related small family-sized models.
It is unlikely to go on sale before 2011 and is expected to keep the current saloon/sportwagon body styles. It will be more compact than the current model - word is that the saloon will be around the size of the Volkswagen Jetta.
Saab is still to make a compact hatchback, too; the 9-1 - also based on the Delta underpinnings - is unlikely to go on sale before 2011, however. Like the new 9-3, this will also be built at Trollhatten once 9-5 production has shifted to Germany.
