Spy shots: 2010 Saab 9-3X crossover

Due for its debut early next year, the Saab 9-3X was recently caught while out on a photo shoot without any hint of camouflage material. The new model will likely be revealed for the first time at January’s Detroit Auto Show but we can gather most of the visual details from these latest spy shots.

As expected, the vehicle is essentially a current-generation 9-3 SportCombi sitting on raised suspension, and featuring protective body cladding and roof rails. Under the skin should be the latest version of the Haldex-sourced XWD four-wheel traction system.

Power will likely be offered in a variety of petrol and diesel engines, though exactly which of General Motors' wide array of supplies will be found when it goes on sale next year is yet unknown. Expect to see most of the engines from the 9-3 family, except for the 2.8L V6 turbocharged engine from the Turbo X.

Otherwise the car is very similar to its 9-3 stablemates. Its likely target market will be the same buyers that are looking at Audi's Allroad and Volvo's XC70. The brand's somewhat up-market outfitting puts it above most of Subaru's offerings in terms of luxury, though the higher-end portion of the Outback range will also likely be on the list of those interested in this type of car.