The new Saab 9-4X, a luxury mid-size crossover vehicle with a distinctive Scandinavian and aircraft-inspired looks, will make its world premiere at next month's Los Angles Auto Show.

The 9-4X expands Saab's product portfolio to three car lines and represents an important next-step in the Swedish brand's renaissance as an independent premium car manufacturer.

"The 9-4X significantly broadens the appeal of the Saab brand," says Saab Automobile CEO Jan Ake Jonsson, "It gives us entry to the fast-growing crossover segment with a vehicle that reflects our brand values in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design and sporty, responsible driving performance. The 9-4X is an exciting package and we're confident it will appeal to many existing Saab owners, as well as win new customers for the brand."

Muscular and sporty to drive, the 9-4X is aligned in looks and size between the 9-3X all-rounder and new 9-5 sedan. Outside and inside, it communicates its Saab identity with clean, uncluttered design and signature motifs, such as its wraparound-effect windshield, ice block lighting theme, driver-focused cockpit and flexible cargo handling.

The vehicle features a choice of two efficient all-aluminum V6 engines, both with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 265 hp, 3.0-liter motor for entry-level and premium variants features direct fuel injection and variable valve timing, and is expected to enable estimated city/highway combined  fuel consumption of 20 mpg* (19 mpg* with Saab XWD).

Available exclusively in Aero specification with Saab XWD as standard, the 2.8-liter turbo engine packs 300 hp and generates an impressive 295 lb.ft. spread of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. It delivers zero to 60 mph acceleration in 7.7 seconds and estimated city/highway combined fuel consumption of 18 mpg.

The 9-4X has an advanced all-wheel-drive system, Saab XWD, and DriveSense adaptive chassis control. Both are standard with Aero, while Saab XWD is also available as an option.

The vehicle has 18-inch, six-spoke alloy wheels are standard fit, while Aero models are distinguished by 20-inch, nine-spoke 'turbine' alloy wheels, as well as bi-xenon cornering headlights and black mesh inserts in the front grille and fog lamp housings.

Available infotainment includes two audio options, a seven-speaker or top-of-the-line Bose system with 5.1 surround sound. The optional 8-inch, touchscreen hard disk based navigation system includes a bird's eye map view and 10 GB storage for jukebox' music files. Communication on the move is supported by OnStar and integrated Bluetooth hands-free phone system, which functions via voice command and steering wheel controls.

In the rear, passengers can enjoy independent climate control, in addition to the standard dual-zone system, and select their own onboard audio/visual entertainment through a dedicated unit in the back of the center console. This optional equipment has a video AUX input and two 8-inch screens in the rear face of the front seatbacks.

The 60/40 split seatbacks fold down in a single movement, without having to move the seat cushions or remove the retractable head restraints. They provide a completely flat cargo deck, offering a total volume of 61.2 cubic feet.

The 9-4X goes on sale in North America in May next year, with sales in Europe and other global markets due to begin from August. Prices will be announced shortly before sales commence.