Saab Turbo X now on sale in the U.S.

The Frankfurt Auto Show launch of the Saab Turbo X commemorated the 30th anniversary of Saab's first turbocharged car, the 99 Turbo, and the latest Turbo in Saab's line-up is finally available for purchase in the U.S. With special appearance and performance parts to distinguish it from the rest of the 9-3 line it's based on, the limited-edition Turbo X also features the company's new all-wheel drive powertrain.

A turbocharged 2.8L 280hp, 295lb-ft V6 engine drives all four wheels through Saab's XWD system, allowing the car to reach 62mph (100km/h) in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 155mph (250km/h). Those figures put performance on par with the any number of performance sedans and coupes on the market, but the Saab also offers a luxurious interior and the cachet of a limited-edition model. A SportCombi (wagon) bodystyle is also available.

The XWD system features an electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) in the rear to transfer up to 40% of available torque between wheels to help grip and power when cornering. The computer also handles distribution of power front-to-rear to help enhance grip at the treshold of performance. Data from the ABS and ESP sensors is fed to the computer to allow precise distribution of power to the wheels that can use it - and that need it - the most.

To help keep the car in the driver's hands, the computer is also tuned to keep ESP intervention with the throttle and braking system to a minimum, with a high threshold before it takes action. This allows more intimate driver control of the car's rotation while keeping the failsafe protection there for extreme situations.

Available only in black, the Turbo X is limited to just 600 units for 2008, with pricing to start at $42,510 for the sedan and $43,310 for the wagon.

For more on the Turbo X and its XWD system, read our original coverage.

2008 Saab Turbo X

Saab Turbo X debut