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It's obvious that SAAB has chosen to stray away from what was it's core identity for lots of people but it's also obvious that it has not made money by selling hatchbacks in the past even though that body style is becoming trendy in the near luxury car category. I have loved SAAB for the last 20 years or so but we have to admit that the 9-3 had a sub par chassis and it's engine were too full of caracter for the likes of the masses. I think that the strategy for SAAB it to build it's future product line on qualities easily perceived by all: good ergonomics, flexible engines, good quality inside and out, safety and good looks (even if generic) to name a few. If that strategy succeeds (the rise in sales of the 9-5 seems to be of good omen) then SAAB can go back and make cars that will be distinctive not only in looks but also in their driving caracteristics without the nastiness that is inherent to the current 9-3 plaform (torque steer and not very good body control namely). When you analyze this last move made by SAAB always remember that Michael Mauer is in charge of styling (he gave us the pretty Mercedes SLK) and that Bob Lutz is taking things in his hands at GM. So even tough GM old think might still reign it's end is probably near. The amount of input SAAB had on the new Epsilon chassis should give us a glimmer of hope.
So let's wait and see before telling that SAABness does not exist anymore and I'm sure we will be pleased with the car in which Micheal Mauer's vision will finally be apparent. I'm sure the next variants of the 9-3 will kick ass both dynamically and style wise.
It sure is no good thing that the rise in SAAB's sale in due in large part to incentives offered by GM but if more people get into SAAB's and like them it will all end up being a good thing. Don't forget that a new 9-5 is coming in a few years and let's hope that SAAB will have the good sense of adding new products that will not be 5 000 pounds SUVs like the BMW X5. It is, in my opinion, the worst example of where car conception should be heading.
posted by 132.203.176...
, Tue, 23 Jul 2002 16:54:09
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