2008 Saab Turbo X SportCombi

Poor Saab, starved of product development resources, has to make do with a car with roots that stretch back nearly fifteen years. Yes, the Swedes have massaged this platform to within an inch of its life, but at its core, the Turbo X SportCombi feels like a car from the mid-'90s. The all-wheel-drive system is great, because it at least eradicates the torque steer that has plagued Saabs for years. But other than that, the Turbo X's dynamics are disappointing. The shifter, the steering, and the suspension damping all feel rubbery. Ride quality is only okay, and the powertrain does not make enticing sounds. On the plus side, the interior is well executed, if dated, and the wagon body is a welcome return to the hatchback versatility of Saabs of yore. Joe DeMatio, Executive Editor