In March in Geneva, Saab revealed the striking 9-X BioHybrid hatchback concept, then billed as a possible entry-level 9-1 model aimed at the Audi A3. The car took AutoWeek Editors' Choice accolades as Best Concept.

Fast-forward to next month's Paris motor show, where Saab will reveal a 9-X that has lost its roof to become the squat and purposeful 9-X Air concept. At the same time, the car has moved up a rung on Saab's product ladder, now to be positioned as part of the 9-3 lineup when the next-generation 9-3 arrives, starting in 2010.

"The 9-X Air shows what the next 9-3 convertible could be like," said Saab managing director Jan-Ake Jonsson.



The latest concept from General Motors' Swedish arm continues to refine the idea that began with earlier 9-X and Aero X concepts. The four-seater uses the same powerplant as the 9-X BioHybrid: a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine backed by a lithium-ion-powered electric motor that makes 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque burning E85. Jonsson says small-capacity turbos like this are the future for Saab, delivering power and economy and staying true to Saab's turbo gasoline-engine heritage.

Similar in overall size to its closest competitor, the Volvo S40, the Air's tight overhangs result in an unusually long wheelbase. But a brief ride in the concept revealed that width, even more than length, is the key dimension. The Air is especially wide, so the front cabin feels roomier than a current 9-3 convertible.

The drive to bring green credentials to future Saab models is where the 9-3 Air's new lightweight and compact "canopy top" comes in. It divides the roof into two independently operating parts, a canvas folding upper section and a sliding glass rear screen. The rear glass slides into a narrow pocket under the rear body, while the insulated, multilayered soft top folds away separately. Saab says the roof saves about 200 pounds compared with a folding hardtop.

Other key features of the Air are shared with the previous 9-X, including the aircraft-inspired front fascia. Inside, the Air's touch-screen panels for controlling air conditioning, navigation and entertainment are similar to the setup on the production-ready Chevrolet Volt, revealed Sept. 16.

Clearly, Saab's future is now.