2009 Saab 9-7X Review

The 2009 Saab 9-7X is a carryover model from the previous year. The four-door SUV features a powerful engine, superior safety additions, and a stylish exterior. However, the five-passenger 9-7X has a higher asking price than the Mercury Mariner or most others of the competition. Nevertheless, with a great number of standard features, the 9-7X is equipped with more than most. Buyers looking for a compact SUV that is both stylish and luxurious will find that the 2009 9-7X is a perfect pick.

Inside, features range from dual-zone automatic climate control to heated front seats to a universal remote transmitter. This transmitter can not only be programmed to an owner's garage door, it can also control the owner's home's lighting system, entry gate, or even a home's security system. Dual front 12-volt outlets, a power moonroof, and power front seats with lumbar support are also included, among a number of other features. Power adjustable pedals are added to the two higher trims. These pedals can be set for a number of different drivers to extend or retract based on each person's leg length and what position is most comfortable.

Each trim has its own engine model as well. The 4.2i trim features a 285 horsepower 4.2L six-cylinder engine, while the 5.3i trim includes a 300 horsepower 5.3L V8 engine. The 5.3i features Active Fuel Management, which can turn off cylinders while not in use to curb gasoline consumption. The highest trim, the Aero, is fitted with an impressive 390 horsepower 6.0L V8. The two lower trims come standard with a four-speed automatic transmission, while the Aero is equipped with a heavy-duty electronically controlled four-speed automatic.

Anti-lock brakes and stability control are also standard on the model. Other safety features include complete airbag protection for all five passengers, a rollover sensor, and a one-year subscription to OnStar. The rollover sensor will automatically deploy the head-side curtain airbags in the event of a rollover.

OnStar has instant accident alerts, navigation features, and even roadside assistance. A tire pressure monitoring system is included. This system has a digital display in the instrument cluster that keeps a constant watch on all four tires' pressure. It will alert drivers if a tire has too much or too little pressure as well. A standard theft deterrent system will also protect the Saab 9-7X from break-ins.

With only 14 city MPG and 20 highway MPG, some buyers might be drawn to any number of more fuel efficient SUVs on the market. Not only that, the Aero trims only reaches 12 city MPG and 16 highway MPG. Also, base priced at $40,935, the 2009 Saab 9-7X is one of the most expensive in its category. Nevertheless, families with small children will be pleased with the attention to safety in the model, while buyers simply looking for elegance rather than ruggedness in an SUV will find a fit in the 9-7X.