IN THIS FEATURE Better late than never This is your pilot speaking V6 is a bit 'GM-corporate'

The V6 isn't terribly refined, though, and you certainly won't rev it just for the sensual experience. Nor is it particularly characterful, a feature that has traditionally marked out Saab turbo units - it feels a bit too GM-corporate. And while its power and torque are impressive, there's no disguising which wheels are driven as you'll feel it through the steering wheel, especially on tight, twisting roads. Otherwise, the Saab's handling is composed and well balance, but just not as engaging and entertaining as the best.

On the basis of price and value - even the most basic model gains dual-zone climate control, electric windows, handy park-distance control, cruise control, foggies and 16-inch alloys - the SportWagon will give the others a run for the money. And it'll finally offer Saab loyalists an alternative to the Germans in this class.

Ergonomics and ambience both SportWagon strong points

What it will emphatically not do is alter the best-in-class* running order. Which remains solidly and predictably Teutonic, a scenario that the upcoming new 3-Series Touring is likely to confirm.

*Our Best in Class compact executive saloon verdicts hold true for estate versions.