First Autocar looks at the interior:
During typical use, the 9-4X’s cabin is incredibly quiet, but there are two points worth quibbling about. Almost identical to that of the 9-5, the instrument panel of the new crossover is functional to the point of looking plain and dull. We also found the 9-4X’s driving position trying; it was difficult to get comfortable irrespective of where we positioned the adjustable steering column.
I have only sat in the 9-4X once at Saab's Stockholm car exhibition and can't really say if the driving position is as trying as Autocar claims. But I totally disagree with them on the "plan and dull" instrument panel. The instrument panel of the 9-4X is actually very good looking. It isn't just a plain plastic panel, but a plastic panel with some sort of glittering effect. I liked it a lot!
Here's what they think about the handling:
While neither as nimble nor as quick as the latest-generation BMW X3, the new Saab 9-4X is more sporty and – to our eyes – more appealing than the Cadillac SRX with which it shares a factory. Its dynamic act is certainly polished enough to bear comparison with flagship petrol version of the Lexus RX and Infiniti EX.And they conclude that the car could be a worthy buy:
Should I buy one?
Saab has a variety of problems to deal with, but on this evidence it’s got the new 9-4X largely right. If the Swedes survive what’s proving to be a troubling period in its history to actually launch the 9-4X in Europe later this year, it should provide a worthy alternative for those who can live without a default-choice diesel engine, and who don’t want just another ‘me-too’ crossover. It won’t save the company, but the 9-4X is a commendable enough car all the same.
All in all a nice review for Saab.
