THE Turbo X is a limited edition version of the Saab 9-3 Aero XWD. Only 2,000 units of this extreme model will be produced - with Singapore getting just two cars.
The all-wheel-drive model shares the same 2.8-litre V6 engine with twin-scroll turbo as the Aero XWD and has the same output numbers - 280 horses and 400 Newton-metres of torque with a maximum boost pressure of 0.8 bar. But there are a couple of cosmetic and mechanical differences from the Aero XWD.
For one thing, the Turbo X gets a metallic jet black paint finish as a tribute to the first black 900 Turbo from two decades ago. It also has styling additions for aerodynamic efficiency, such as a deep-lip spoiler, integrated air intake, re-profiled bumper and rear spoiler. As a result, accelerating from zero to 100kmh takes just 5.7 seconds, or half a second faster than the Aero XWD.
More importantly, the Turbo X chassis is lowered by 10mm with stiffer springs and dampers. There are also bigger brake discs and slightly bigger wheels featuring a grey titanium-like finish.
But the most significant difference is eLSD. This electronically controlled, rear limited-slip differential is standard on the Turbo X but an option on the Aero XWD. eLSD can transfer up to 40 per cent of torque between the rear drive shafts to whichever wheel has more grip. This means that when cornering hard, eLSD helps the rear of the car follow the direction of the front wheels more closely.
The ability to apply more torque to the outside rear wheel and less to the one on the inside is helpful in a lane-change manoeuvre, such as when overtaking at high speed or attempting collision avoidance.
Saab distributor Trans Eurokars says the two units of Turbo X Sport Sedan will arrive in June and although the price is not confirmed, it should cost about $200,000. That may sound high, considering a two-litre, front-wheel-drive Saab 9-3 starts from $128,000. But in terms of exclusivity and desirability, it could well be the right price.
This article was first published in The Straits Times on Mar 29, 2008.
