The Saab brand has been rather neglected in recent years, a victim of General Motors financial problems it was et to be wound up completely by its American parent company. Recently though, the marque has been purchased by the Dutch company Spyker and that means for customers there is no significant change as the model line-up is still available through most Vauxhall showrooms.

 

It remains a brand with plenty of kudos, appealing to the individualist who likes a car that stands out from the herd, and offers a sporty edge aligned to everyday practicality. One of the latest Saab 9-3 models underlines this point. Launched last October, the 9-3X is an all-wheel drive version, available only in estate form, and capable of mild off roading should the need arise. There is a 1.9 litre turbo-diesel version on offer, and also my test model, the 2.0 litre petrol model, also with turbo boost and costing £26,595.

 

The four-wheel drive system has the ability to send all the power to the front or rear wheels if necessary, though in most conditions, there will be a fairly even power distribution. The system also features a limited slip differential that provide extra grip in tricky situations. The X models also have higher suspension settings to provide greater ground clearance. one of this means the 9-3X can take on a Land Rover in a race to the top of a mountain,. It means the Saab provides handy off-road prowess in slippery conditions such as mud, snow and ice and thus is more useful and reassuring, particularly to rural dwellers. It is a big plus-point over conventional estate cars.

 

The power output is 207 hp, enough for most circumstances, and the 0-60 mph time of 8.2 seconds emphasises that this model certainly delivers sporty performance. It's also extremely comfortable with excellent supportive seats and a very nice ride quality. Top speed is 143 mph making it a fine relaxing motorway cruiser, and the combined fuel figure is 34.9 mpg.

 

Safety has long been a Saab priority and apart from its exceptional build-quality, there are a multitude of airbags and also active headrests on the front seats to minimise the effects of whiplash. Electronic stability control is also standard. The X model is very equipped, with 17" five-spoke alloys wheels, heated front seats front fog lights, dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, a cooled glove box and cruise control among its features. Cabin space is impressive in the front, though the rear seats offer less head and leg room than you might expect given the car's overall size. Luggage capacity - with all the seats in use - is 419 litres, again less than anticipated. However, the Saab 9-3X scores top marks for overall performance, comfort, standard features so it is easy to overlook a couple of minor flaws.

 

For: Distinctive badge status, smooth driving feel, excellent comfort.

Against: Small rear window means a glance in the rear view mirror is like peering through a letter box!