Spyker Pondering Entry-Level Saab, Audi A3 Rival

Now that Spyker is controlling Saab, the Dutch manufacturer is looking into ways to speed up the newly-acquired brand's revival and boost annual sales to up to 120,000 vehicles per year. And it appears that a solution has already emerged in the form of an entry-level Saab that would be able to tackle Volvo C30, Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series, as leftlanenews.com reported.

Spyker CEO Victor Muller said in an interview that company executives are indeed studying such a possibility but, in case this scenario has any chance to become reality, it won't happen sooner than in a few years.

However, online media sources are speculating that Saab's new entry-level model could be based on the 9-X BioHybrid concept displayed at the 2008 Geneva Motors Show.

Believed to enter production as Saab 9-1, which could actually be Saab's entry-level segment competitor, the concept was powered by a hybrid powertrain comprising a 1.4-liter turbocharged unit, installed on Chevy Cruze and Volt, plus an electric unit.

Meanwhile, in order to boost sales and reach the aforementioned goal, Saab is also looking into ways to make itself noticed in the US with the launch of some new models that could attract new consumers. Last week, Saab announced US pricing for the 9-3 range, which is slated to arrive in local dealerships this month.

"This pricing action allows Saab to be in-line with the market and maintains accessibility of Saab's rich Swedish heritage, innovation and responsible performance for our many loyal owners, enthusiasts and potential new customers," said Mike Colleran, President and COO, Saab Cars North America.