The highlight of Saab's booth at the Geneva show is undoubtedly the PhoeniX concept car that previews design features and technologies that will be used by future Saab models. Based on the platform that will underpin the next-generation Saab 9-3, the PhoeniX was penned under the supervision of the firm's new design boss, Jason Castriota. According to Saab, it introduces an "aeromotional” design, which the company describes as the "the visual evocation of the aerodynamic design principles".
The sports coupe features dramatic details such as the rear-lateral winglets reminding of Saab's aeronautical roots and the jet canopy-inspired glasshouse. The front includes a new interpretation of the brand's signature three-port grille which is likely to be seen on future models, as well as the muscular hood.
The teardrop shape of the rear window echoes the design of the very first Saab, the 92001 or Ursaab, while the “sawed-off” tail is a tribute to Saab's first coupe, the Sonett.
The shape of the concept and its aerodynamic treatment enable a drag co-efficient of just 0.25. The doors open upwards, like on the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, and offer access to the interior, which has a 2+2 layout. The PhoeniX features Saab's all-new IQon infotainment and communications system and a new expression of the driver-focused layout. The IQon uses Google's Android operating system and manages audio and entertainment streaming, online navigation, on-board music storage and downloading of applications.
The concept is powered by an innovative driveline, with an electrically-driven rear axle combined with a 200HP 1.6-liter gasoline turbo engine (most likely sourced from the BMW Group) that motivates the front wheels. The electric motor/generator develops 34 hp and is powered by a small battery pack, which uses regenerative braking to sustain the charge.
The eXWD hybrid all-wheel drive setup and the start-stop system allow for an average fuel consumption of only 5 liters/100 km (47 mpg) and a CO2 emissions level of 119 g/km. The eco-friendliness doesn't mean the PhoeniX is “soft”: it does 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
The driver can choose between three eXWD operating modes: Eco, Sport and Traction. The first is set by default and delivers optimal fuel and CO2 efficiency, the second includes maximum power assistance with torque vectoring across the rear-axle and the third enables optimal grip in slippery conditions and at take-off.
By Dan Mihalascu
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11 Comments:
Ooooookaaaaay now...looks to be a bit on the unrealistic side to drive, produce, and own. Can you even properly view the road ahead of you in this concept?
I've loved all recent Saab concepts....but not this one.
PHOENIX...ASHES TO ASHES...THIS LOOKS MORE AS ANOTHER ATTEMPT FROM SAAB TO MAKE SOME PUBLICITY AND TO SAVE THEM FROM BANKRUPTY AND ATTRACT SOME INVESTORS....
Amazing this concept is just crazy, i actually don't really know if I like it but it is original ! It looks like a plane !!
I totally love this consept, a very powerful statement and a hidden tribute to the 92 of yester years... a reasuring stance and imposing presence of a musle car ... I'm a Saab person and loved the Aero X and 9-X Biopower Concet ... not so much the 9-4X ... this is a break free design from GM's DNA and I approve 1000% , I'm very mpressed with SAAB chosen direction ...I've no doubt I will once more look for a SAAB as my new car! A job well done Mr Castriota!
I think it looks great and I really like the old Saab logo used on this concept. I don´t really care if I can see the road in this concept ´cause thats not the idea of this car. Mr Castriota is really doing a good job imo.
Sceptical about the rear wings as my eyes struggle to appreciate the potential engineering benefits behind the new proposal. Love the powerful profile stance. I'm not sure I am fan of Castriota's dot matrix styling on the tail lights that he may have inherited from his days at Bertone. It reminds me too much of the pontiac honeycomb tail lights. Hated it then too. Love the newer more refined front fascia and how the horizontal bar runs across the front between the two headlights creating an imagery of flight. This is promising for Saab, but let's wait and see how this translates into future production models. Must we be reminded how Saab botched the translation of the highly acclaimed 9X Aero?
I agree with Kid Voltron ^^^
the sport car that will save Saab if it gets to production, and it should get to production, because Saab is now owned by a sport car company.
front is nice but reminds me of subaru for some reason, not a fan of the rear of it though
What a waste of design studio resources.
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