The news came as company...

The news came as company boss Peter Augustsson unveiled the 9-7X - itself a crossover - at the New York Motor Show (image). We"ve had an exclusive sneak preview of the design sketches of the newcomer, and although we can"t publish them, there"s nothing to stop us telling you about the car.

The model is sleek and low-roofed, with a wide track and big wheelarches. The styling of the signature three-hole Saab grille has also been developed, with the two outer "nostrils" now merging into the headlamp clusters.

Saab design chief Michael Mauer said the car was planned "for the near future, and will be a similar size to the 9-7X", but lower overall. It will be based on a new Subaru - which is currently under development in Japan - and will be designed to perform exceptionally well on-road. Thanks to the Far Eastern manufacturer"s highly regarded four-wheel-drive system, the Saab will also have first-rate mud-plugging ability.

The joint venture follows in the footsteps of the recently unveiled 9-2X crossover, which is essentially a rebadged Impreza estate. But unlike that car, the 9-4X will get a bespoke body as well as its own cabin design. The newcomer is expected to be seen in concept form at January"s Detroit Motor Show, before going into production in late 2005 for a 2006 launch.