Ever since they first appeared in America in the 1950s, Saabs have been known for front-wheel drive. At a time when virtually all automobiles were rear-drive, the curiously looking, Swedish-built Saabs soon earned a reputation for idiosyncracy. They also earned kudos for slippery-weather traction. Back in those days, Saabs could hardly be beaten at such events as ice races.

Saab introduced turbocharging to the U.S. market with its 1978 model 99 hatchback. That model held a 135-horsepower four-cylinder engine. Now, Saab has launched a special-edition Turbo X that features Saab's first use of XWD (all-wheel drive) rather than the company's customary front-wheel drive.

Beneath the hood of the new Turbo X sits a turbocharged 2.8-liter V-6, cranking out 280 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Saab claims 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.7 seconds. The Turbo X comes in sport sedan or SportCombi wagon form, with either a manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. Only 600 examples were to be produced for the 2008 model year, each one finished in black - a color intended to evoke the look of "classic" Saab Turbos of the past three decades.

Saab's "intellilgent" XWD system splits torque output between front and rear wheels, and also between the rear wheels. An electronically-controlled limited-slip rear differential can transfer up to 40 percent of torque to the wheel that has the most grip. In hard cornering, this "yaw damping" effect is supposed to help the rear wheels closely follow the fronts. The Turbo X's sport-tuned chassis has a specific suspension, brakes, and wheels.

Mere moments behind the wheel demonstrate that Saab's claim of energetic acceleration is valid. Engine response doesn't quite match all-out performance cars, but it's invigorating nonetheless. Surprisingly, this Saab emits a most noticeable exhaust note. Enthusiasts are likely to fall under its siren's spell. Regular Saab fans might declare that the noise is out of character for what is ordinarily a more sedate marque. Then again, Saab does have that long heritage of performance-focused turbo models.

Basically, with the Turbo X you get all the usual 9-3 virtues, including precision handling skills. Few cars possess such a sense of solidity and tight workmanship. On straightaways and in curves, the Turbo X keeps its tires firmly planted. Overall, it feels on the heavy side, but that's not unexpected for a solid Saab.

Shifts are noticed but hardly bothersome from the well-behaved automatic transmissions. Yes, the ride is on the stiff side, but far from painful. On dry, ordinary roads there's little evidence of the XWD. Still, it's nice to know that all-wheel drive is down there, waiting to be called upon.

Rear-seat space is good, but seats feel a bit hard, and the center occupant must straddle a tunnel on the floor. From the driver's seat, there's nothing unusual, apart from the ignition switch located on the console rather than the dashboard. But that's been a Saab quirk for so long, it seems almost normal now.

Driving home a 2008 Saab Turbo X sedan (if any can be found at dealerships) costs $42,520. Add a thousand for the SportCombi.

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