Saab will enter the premium hatch market around 2010, with the production version of this 9-X Biohybrid concept.Unveiled at a sneak preview on the eve of the Geneva Motor Show, the 9-X Biohybrid is a sleek, three-door hatch. It’s a rival for Audi’s A3 Sportback, BMW 1-series – and the Toyota Prius! That’s because GM has thrown all its powertrain tricks at the show car, as the Biohybrid name suggests. There’s a turbocharged 1.4-liter petrol engine in the nose, tuned to run on bioethanol, and supplemented by hybrid electric power. It’s funky, fast, front-wheel drive and heading for production. 'This vehicle provides a glimpse of a future progressive compact car from Saab,' said GM product boss Bob Lutz, as the covers were pulled from the concept.The 9-X draws on the design direction Saab spelled out with the Aero X, its 2006 Geneva show car. The 9-X shares its 21-inch ‘turbine’ alloys pushed out to each corner, a wraparound windshield inspired by Saab’s aviation heritage, and a deep front grille.It's a highly desirable car, with surfacing cleaner than a vicar's sermon, and a macho, wide stance. The big surprise is the unique rear end, which appears to have an unusual reverse rake, and intriguing features such as the frosted light bar and a chunky spoiler that resembles half a Polo mint.
