speed.wilkinson
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Say hello to the new Saaburu. Introduced in L.A., the new Saab 9-2X is actually a Subaru Impreza Wagon under that Scandinavian skin. Saab was in desperate need of a high-performance, entry-level car that cost around $25,000, so it turned to GM partner Subaru and handpicked the Impreza Wagon. The wagon body style reinforces Saabs history of producing five-door hatchbacks and it suits the brands reputation for building multipurpose vehicles. The 9-2X will be available in 2.5 and Aero trim levels, with the former getting a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter, 165-hp flat-four, and the latter a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter, 227-hp flat-four from the Subaru WRX. Both trims can be fitted with a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic. Because its really a Subaru, the 9-2X features full-time all-wheel drive, as well as a viscous limited-slip differential for the Aero. Additional standard equipment includes a four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS. The 9-2X goes on sale July 1, 2004, and should start below $25,000.
