You're looking at the new Saab 9-4X, which will finally be unveiled in production form at the Los Angeles Auto Show next month (November).

Its very existence is a sign that Saab is moving onwards and upwards under Spyker ownership, although the car was designed and developed entirely on GM's watch. The Spyker era will truly begin with the new 9-3, due in 2012.

This 9-4X will hit UK showrooms at the end of 2011, so it's quite early in terms of engine and specification nuance, but this debut car has a 2.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 296bhp.

Can't see Saab shifting many of those, so it's likely the 9-4X will also come powered by the new twin-turbo TTiD diesel engine that we've just driven in the new 9-3. In that car, the 178bhp version emits just 119g/km and returns 62.8mpg.

When it does arrive, the car will compete with the new BMW X3, the Audi Q5 and the Range Rover Evoque. The 'X' of 9-4X denotes its four-wheel drive system, though Saab's decision to call it a 'crossover' suggests it will, at some stage, be available with just two-wheel drive.

The car will boast an adaptive chassis with three settings: Eco, Comfort and Sport. They'll alter the throttle, suspension, steering and gearshift pattern. It's not clear whether that will be reserved for high-end models, but Saab promises 'car-like' dynamics with class-leading handling and comfort.

Other features include carbon effect trim for the 'aircraft inspired' cockpit (what else?) and an optional electronic tailgate. The engine start button is located on the transmission tunnel housing (where else?).

It's too early for Saab to jettison the prices, but expect them to kick off around the £30,000 region.

Mark Nichol - 19 Oct 2010