A Word with Michael Mauer Executive Director of Design, SAAB

The smaller of Sweden's two major automakers struggled through the '80s. In fact, it nearly put itself out of business with mainstream designs, such as the 9000 sedan, with its ignition key on the steering column. Now that GM owns SAAB, the challenge is to maintain the brand's quirky character in cars that'll share platforms with Opels, Pontiacs, and the like. Who better to handle that task than Mauer, designer of Mercedes-Benz SL, SLK, and A-Class? Mauer moved to SAAB last year and quickly made an impression with his 9x and 9-3x concepts. We caught up with him at Detroit. 

MT: What does the 9x say about the future of SAAB design? 
Mauer: I hope it's a bold statement. The 9-5 today tells you; "I'd like to be a SAAB." The 9x tells you; "I am a SAAB. Get out of my way." 

MT: And the 9-3x hints at the look of the upcoming new 9-3? 
Mauer: Look at the shape of the sheet-metal surrounding the side glass. We call that a "hockey stick." It's in the 9-5 as well. The 9x is a vision for the brand - a 10-year perspective. The 9-3x is a tease for the 9-3 lineup, to make the customers understand that there are more 9-3 derivatives to come. 

MT: Do you see the 9-3x as part of a trend for off-road sport coupes, established by Audi's Steppenwolf? 
Mauer: SUVs are extending to other segments - so, yes, there is a trend. Comparing Steppenwolf and 9-3x, there's an important difference. We have a more on-road presence, on-road tires, wheel clearance. The only thing off-road is the [tall] view. All-wheel drive provides the opportunity for better performance, for more torque than you could have with front drive. 

MT: What are the chances for a SAAB sports car, another Sonett? 
Mauer: In a way, for me the 9x is a Sonett. 

MT: How is life for SAAB under GM? 
Mauer: Uncomplicated. We have access to technology and components we've never had before. Yes, we share components and architecture, but we can't jeopardize the distinctiveness in the brand by having production SAABs that don't differentiate. 

MT: How do you grow the brand without losing its distinctiveness? 
Mauer: That is the toughest part of my job. People expect bold statements from SAAB. But on the other side, we have to grow. The tough job is to attract more people without becoming mainstream. If we are mainstream, we will be dead.