Despite having owned over thirty Saabs, I'd always had a dream to own a Turbo X. To me, it represents the pinnacle of a modern Saab, a modern classic, much like the 900 Turbo S has now become. It's a celebration of Saab innovation, bringing together their superior Turbo technology with a silky smooth V6 engine and an exceptionally intelligent AWD system Saab named cross-wheel-drive or XWD.

In mid 2022 I found a very clean manual saloon with possibly the best specification you could wish for on a Turbo X, including all optional packages :

Convenience Plus Pack
Dual electric seats with driver’s 3-position memory, electric folding mirrors, auto dimming interior and exterior mirrors, rain sensor wipers

Business Plus Pack
DVD Satellite Navigation, 6.5" colour touch screen, TMC, voice control, Bluetooth phone integration system*, BOSE Surround Sound Audio

Performance Plus Pack
Bi-xenon cornering headlights, headlight pressure washers, 19” Turbo X alloy wheels

Premium Natural Leather
Sport interior trim with perforated seat bolsters and heated front seats

Added to that, it had just undergone a full refurbishment of the Haldex XWD system and came from a knowledgeable Saab family, sadly though, it's been one hell of a journey, as from the moment it arrived, it wouldn't start. A long story short, but the timing chain had failed and taken out some of the engine with it, so after sourcing another 2.8 engine, the team at Malcolm Miles set about rebuilding it all; new timing chain, water pump, followers, clutch, slave and endless ancillary hoses and gaskets, also wheel bearings and new tyres for the rare 19" X alloys too.

I've taken the opportunity to do a few, very subtle modifications, the suspension has been upgraded to Bilstien B8 shocks and Hirsch springs, it's had a Hirsch 3 piece grille, aluminium pedals, carbon leather dashboard, leather interior Hirsch handles and new Saab floor mats to make the interior feel like new again.

It easily lives up to expectations, and really is a very special Saab. 1 of only 2000 crafted worldwide, the Turbo X is already a modern classic. Not only does it have the superb Turbocharged V6 engine, but has XWD handling to match, all wrapped in one of the best generations on the 9-3 Saab produced.

The expense on this has been astronomical, but deserved to be saved. It now offers someone the opportunity to own a manual Turbo X with the best specification and the knowledge that the hard work has been done and is now ready to just enjoy Saab's unique creation.

Essentials
Saab 9-3 Turbo X manual
2009
98,000 Miles
4 previous owners
V5C / Owners Manual / 2 Keys
Full Service History
MOT February 2024

SOLD

WORKS LIST

Mechanical
Clutch and slave cylinder
Water Pump
Timing Chain
Followers
Boost hoses
Short shift
Oil and filter service
Bilstien B8 shocks
Hirsch Springs
Wheel bearings
Bridgestone Tyres

Aeroriginal
Hirsch 3 piece grille
Hirsch carbon dashboard
Hirsch aluminium pedals
Hirsch leather handles

Imperfections
Slight corrosion on driver’s side rear door, inside seal
Slight bubbling of clear coat on bonnet