Following the first photos taken by Jalopnik.com at a GM Paris show preview event in Detroit, German print mag Autobild was up next with the leakage of 5 low-res press images. Now, our Scandinavian neighbors, AutoMotorsport.se have trumped them all with details, new hi-res photos and even a test drive of the yet to be revealed Saab 9-X Air Concept!
Confirmed by AMS through Saab sources, the 9-X Air Concept is a preview of the production Saab 9-3 convertible which is planned to go into production in 2011. Based on the 9-X BioHybrid concept, which appeared in Geneva, the 9-X Air highlights a new, patent pending, innovative top called, Triple Top. The main aspect of the design are the C-pillars which sweep upwards rising above the belt line. AMS amusingly suggests that in English, the top may be referred to as a “Toupée Top”. Another innovation is seen in the back window as it is not integrated into the folding soft top like most convertibles. Instead, it is hidden in a compartment between the rear seats and trunk space and can be raised and lowered when the soft top is folded down.
The 9-X Air concept shares most of the same technology and powertrain with sister concept, the 9-X BioHybrid. This means it receives the same1.4-liter Opel Astra motor producing 200 hp and consumes 5 liters of petrol per 100 km and 6.5 liter with E85 coupled with an electric motor and generator for the hybrid aspect.
Although the 9-X Air is set to be the successor of the 9-3 convertible, it is still a concept. So, it's most probable that the production version will not look exactly the same, and it's certainly not clear if the new Triple Top design will make it through testing.
Nonetheless, the man responsible for the 9-X BioHybrid and 9-X Air, Designer Anthony Lo, has confirmed that it has left the concept stage with a prototype already built and expect it roll very soon. Hello, spy photographers!?
Head over to Automotorsport.se via source link below for more photos.
