Details are limited, but Autocar adds the platform “is highly adaptable and will be able to accommodate vehicles which measure from 4.2 to 5.5 meters long. It is reportedly being developed with the assistance of Scania, who is helping the company create a “future-proof” platform which can be easily upgraded over several generations without significant re-engineering.”

Phoenix will feature a unique MacPherson strut arrangement, along with a new “race-car style” five-link rear axle. Rumors also state this platform could underpin the replacements for the 9-5 and 9-4X.

The updated Saab 9-3 for 2012 should hit dealership lots this October.

Source: WCF

Most notably, President and CEO Jan Åke Jonsson confirmed the next-generation 9-3 will arrive in 2012. This had been expected, but the upcoming 9-3 facelift caused speculation that the redesign might have been delayed until 2013.

As we have previously reported, the new 9-3 will ride on a modified version of the current Epsilon I platform and likely be offered in three- and five-door bodystyles. A variety of engines will be available, but a recent agreement with BMW will ensure there’s a MINI-sourced 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo with start/stop technology.

Besides talking about the 2012 9-3, Saab announced plans to unveil a new special edition. Details are limited, but the model will likely be based on the current 9-3 Convertible.

The new TTiD 1.9 diesel, another option of UK and possibly US buyers, brings in a total of 180 horsepower and lowers fuel consumption.

Other trim levels bring in newer alternatives in horsepower – 130 and 160 hp respectively, which gives values of consumption and emissions same as top diesel. Gas and diesel range will be assisted by a new automatic transmission with six cylinders.

Let’s not forget the new Saab 9-5, which receives an updated engine. The automaker, which was recently bought by Spyker, will introduce two new versions of the current 9-5 this fall – a gas and diesel counterpart. The diesel sedan gets a 2.0 TTiD powerplant with190 hp. The gas version gets a 1.6T with 180 hp. Diesel Saab can hit up to 60 mph in less than nine seconds.

With the new engines, Saab 9-5 offers customers a more generous color palette with 11 shades, as well as Adaptive Cruise Control.

Source

This news comes from the Swedish business newspaper Dagens Industri – Chinese automaker Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. (BAIC, as the kids are calling it) has paid $197 million for the rights to the 9-5 model as well as some technology from the 9-3.

This amount affords Saab/GM only three more months of operating funds. As we reported earlier in the week, The General is still talking with Dutch automaker Spyker to purchase Saab. If a buyer isn’t found, GM will simply close Saab down for good.