Saab Turbo X

As-tested price: $45,305Drivetrain: 2.8-liter turbocharged V6; awd, six-speed automaticOutput: 280 hp @ 5500 rpm, 295 lb-ft @ 2150 rpmCurb weight: 3820 lbFuel economy (EPA/AW): 19/21.2 mpgOptions: Automatic transmission with manual shift ($1,350); touring package, including rear park assist, inside auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, universal home remote, three-position memory for driver's seat ($895); cold-weather package, including heated seats, headlight washers ($550)
OUR TAKE: Saabs have always done everything rather well and have their own charm to boot, what with their center-console ignition and all. The turbocharged engines and decent handling make driving interesting, with torque steer being the only major strike against them.
Enter this Turbo X, which features all-wheel drive and a juiced-up version of the force-inducted V6 making 25 more hp and 37 more lb-ft of torque than the standard engine in 9-3 Aero models. There is a hint of turbo lag, but peak torque is available way down low at just 2150 rpm to make the Turbo X feel eager and quick.
Most impressive is how it handles rounding turns. The all-wheel-drive system and sport-tuned suspension do a great job of keep the car planted when attacking corners. There are some signs of understeer when you push it hard, but for normal to semispirited driving, it provides all the grip you need. The stiffened suspension isn't too harsh, either, for day-to-day motoring.
The one thing that saps a lot of fun out of the package is the automatic slushbox. A third pedal would go a long way toward making this a much more enjoyable and engaging drive. The sport-shift mode helps matters some, but manually selecting gears with the steering-wheel thumb buttons is terrible, with very slow shift response.
Visual enhancements are subtle, with titanium trim for the bumpers, exhaust tips and retro-looking wheels. Overall, the car's low-key styling and standard black paint make it look pretty sinister.