The editors at NADAguides.com, a leading vehicle pricing and information website based in Costa Mesa, California, have named the Saab 9-3 Aero SportCombi a "Top 5 Wagon". An important contributor to the award was the availability of Saab's "Cross-Wheel Drive" (XWD) system, new for the 2009 model year as standard equipment in the 9-3 Aero SportSedan and SportCombi and available on 2.0T models.

"When they say engineered from jets, they mean it," said Don Christy, president and CEO of NADAguides.com. "The 2009 Saab 9-3 Aero SportCombi is a great looking wagon with a laundry list of standard equipment. In this category, this is something special."

Developed in Sweden with Haldex of Stockholm, Saab's "Cross-Wheel Drive" is a pre-emptive, active-on-demand system that is activated only when required, limiting the impact on fuel economy while giving the car a surefooted, dynamic feel that enthusiasts embrace. Saab's Cross-Wheel Drive system is designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions.

"True to its Scandinavian origins, Saab has built a large part of its reputation on excellent road manners under demanding driving conditions like rain, sleet and snow," said Steve Shannon, executive director product and brand at Saab Automobile USA. "Our new Cross-Wheel Drive technology, which delivers unprecedented levels of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control, further illustrates Saab's commitment to offering active safety in sporty, efficient and driver-focused vehicles."

Saab 9-3 Aero SportCombi (2009)
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Saab Cross-Wheel Drive is a fully automatic, on-demand system capable of sending up to 100 percent of engine torque to the front or rear wheels whenever necessary. While offering drivers sure-footed handling in low-grip conditions, its sophisticated operation also adds a further sporty dimension to the driving experience in all road conditions.

This state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system includes two innovative features: pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels to optimize traction at take-off; and an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD) that allows variable torque transfer between the rear wheels. While the eLSD is standard on Aero models; it is not available on the 9-3 2.0T.

Saab is a division of General Motors Corporation. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of the Saab 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden. For the 2009 model year, Saab offers 7 different models that deliver 27 mpg or better according to EPA Highway fuel economy standards.