Engine: 2.0-liter, 16-valve, double overhead cam, turbocharged intercooled flat four

Engine Options: 2.5-liter, 16-valve, single overhead cam flat four; 2.0-liter, 16-valve, double overhead cam, turbocharged intercooled flat four

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Transmission Options: 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: two-stage front seat airbags; front seat-mounted side impact airbags; front seat active head restraints; child safety seat anchors; four-wheel antilock brakes with EBD; all-wheel drive

Optional Safety Equipment:

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled In: Ota City, Gunma, Japan

Model Tested: Saab 9-2X Aero ($26,950)

Standard Equipment: automatic climate control with cabin air filter; cruise control; tilt steering wheel; manual height adjustable driver's seat; power windows, outside mirrors and central locking with remote; six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo with six-disc changer; fabric sport seats; leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather–trimmed shift lever and parking brake handle; aluminum sport pedals; 60/40 split folding rear seat; retractable cargo cover; tinted side window glass; delayed accessory off

Options as Tested: Premium Package ($1695) includes leather-faced seats, xenon headlights; Sport Package ($1950) includes power glass moonroof, 17-inch wheels with high performance tires

Destination Charge: 695

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: all-wheel drive

Horsepower: 227 @ 6000

Torque: 217 @ 4000

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 20/26

Wheelbase: 99.4 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 175.6/66.7/57.7 inches

Track Front/Rear: 57.7/57.3 inches

Turning Cycle: 35.4 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 39.7/53.3/42.9 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 37.3/51.9/33.7 inches

Trunk Volume: 61.6 cubic feet

Payload: 1000

Suspension, f: independent, MacPherson-type struts, coil springs, stabilizer bar

Ground Clearance: 6.1 inches

Curb Weight: 3179 pounds

Towing Capacity: pounds

Tires: 215/45R17

Brakes: disc/disc with ABS and EBD

Fuel Capacity: 15.9 Gallons