Why kill Saab? As a brand, Saab’s gained an extremely loyal following, especially here in the northeast, and a premium image (not to mention a pretty sterling reputation). As far as its connection with GM goes, Saab enjoys an anonymity within GM shared only by Saturn: most don't know any connection exists. Moreover, Saab is becoming extremely popular overseas and we’ve heard rumors of all-wheel drive becoming a top priority in future models. It's current lineup, while still an impressive one in my opinion, can hardly be judged considering the effort GM's put into it. Who knows how well Saab would do if product-development similar to what Ford’s done with Volvo took place?
Even so, Saab boasts some of the most accomplished and quality products in the GM stable. To start, the 9-3 line is nothing short of praiseworthy in several aspects. The 9-3 sedan, aside from being one of the safest cars you can buy, is the top-performing Epsilon model, has the best interior, and looks outstanding (one of my personal favorite cars style-wise). The upcoming Aero model boasts an all-aluminum, turbocharged 2.8 liter V-6 producing 250 horsepower and a 0-62 mph march of well-under 7 seconds (not to mention true dual-exhaust and a top speed of over 160 mph). Moreover, Saab’s ditched the base 175 horsepower model in favor of a 210 horsepower turbo 4. The 9-3 coupe will also gain the all-new engine used in the sedan’s Aero model. The upcoming SportCombi, which is undoubtedly one of the most attractive wagons to debut in years, also has the performance to match and will effectively compete with similar models from Audi for thousands of dollars less.
Sure, the 9-2x and 9-7x are pretty blatant badge-jobs, but there’s more to it than that. Saab was in desperate need of product, and GM answered with what it could at the time. As un-Saab as the 9-2x may seem, it’s been praised by several automotive publications as an all-around great car and offers a more “premium” spin on the already accomplished WRX. Plus it offers all-wheel drive and the Saab name (which is a big deal to some, believe it or not) for a reasonable price. The 9-7x won’t be the end of Saab, either. It’s undoubtedly the best of the GMT-360s performance-wise, and looks great, even if a bit too similar to it’s platform-mates. Regardless, I’d venture to say that to the majority of the car-buying public, the 9-7x is as far from a Trailblazer as filet mignon and a Big Mac.
Saab's "quirkiness" has made it one of the most unique brands in GM's lineup. Killing it would be a horrible mistake and destroy the unemployed potential that Saab possesses in doing so.