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Saab 9-2X (pictured) is not getting a Japanese replacement, sources say. (Photo courtesy of Saab Cars USA)


Instead, Saab is working on a small, sporty hatchback with design cues from the Aero-X concept (pictured). It goes by the moniker 9-1 for now. (Photo courtesy of Saab Cars USA)

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — Forget the rumors you've heard about a neo-Sonett.

Saab planners are focusing on a much more down-to-earth product: a compact sport hatchback aimed at the Audi A3 and known internally as the Saab 9-1.

Company executives already are talking about the vehicle. In an interview with the Swedish newspaper TT, Saab Managing Director Jan-Ake Jonsson said the car will be built at Saab's home plant in Trollhättan and will be built on the same platform as the next-generation Opel Astra.

The 9-1, which is due in early 2009, won't be the only vehicle off the new Delta platform. Saturn also is looking to Opel to provide it with a successor to the Ion in 2008.

Work on the 9-1 began in earnest last year when it became clear that there would be no direct Japanese replacement planned for the "Saabaru" 9-2X, which runs through 2007. Saab reportedly is doing styling studies on its future small car, which will likely adopt design cues from the recent Aero X concept.

The company also is working on Opel-based replacements for its big 9-5 for late 2009 and the midsize 9-3 for 2010, according to European suppliers.

What this means to you: Opel will be the common thread that ties Saab to Saturn in the future.

Source: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...cleId=110207#2