Saab planning second crossover to join 9-4X

GM is likely to produce an all-new Saab model at its Opel plant in Rüsselsheim to help fill capacity at the German site. Officials have already revealed plans to build the new Saab 9-3 and 9-5 models in Rüsselsheim and according to union sources a third Saab variant will join the production line. The new model is tipped to be a large crossover positioned above the new 9-4X that will be produced in Mexico.

The chairman of Opel’s works council Klaus Franz revealed to Automotive News Europe that Saab could build an additional model in Rüsselsheim, which could help the plant reach full capacity by 2018. Franz wasn’t willing to give details about the possible new car but industry sources suggest it could be a large crossover.

This is contrary to what GM sources told reporters earlier this month. They claim Saab would prefer to build large SUV and crossover models closer to the U.S. where the bulk of sales will be. This means the new model could instead by the upcoming baby Saab 9-1, which is due to arrive by 2010.