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Future Saab 9-3, Independent of General Motors

General Motors started its huge restructuring process some months ago and, as part of this plan, it got rid of several brands, including Saab, Pontiac and Saturn. Out of these three, Saab is undoubtedly the lucky one, as it now operates under Koenigsegg's umbrella so it will surely live on, contrary to Pontiac and Saturn that will be both axed very soon.

Back in June when General Motors confirmed that Koenigsegg Group will take control of Saab, the US-based manufacturer also revealed that it will continue to provide Saab with engines and other parts for a certain period of time. Not for long however, as the future 9-3 won't be based on a GM platform, a report published by motortrend.com claims.

Furthermore, the Swedish brand will focus its efforts on the 9-5 revealed at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September and on the 9-4x crossover likely to go on sale next year. Following the sale to Koenigsegg, Saab will be less interested in the American markets which means local dealers are still left alone in the battle for survival until the arrival of the new models. Until then, most of them are struggling to sale used cars, the only ones that could maintain them on the floating line.

According to the aforementioned source, Saab has a sales goal of 8,500 units in 2009 in the United States, down from the record 47,000 units in 2006. The 9-5 is the first model to arrive in the US under Koenigsegg's ownership, with first units likely to hit dealerships in spring 2010.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
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Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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