Stockholm - Saab is offering the all-wheel drive (XWD) system for the 2009 models of the 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi range, the car maker has announced.

Originally developed for the harsh Swedish winter roads, the manufacturer says the system is also ideally suited for wet roads and tarmac covered by autumn leaves.

The XWD system distributes engine torque between the front and rear axles, to achieve optimum handling and grip in all driving conditions. On the open road, it helps the driver keep the car stable while cornering.

Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, the XWD eliminates the need to detect wheel slip before rear drive is activated, the car maker says.

The system is mated to all-aluminium, four-cylinder engines delivering 155 kW/ 210 hp at 5,300 rpm and torque of 300 Nm between 2,500 - 4,000 rpm. XWD is also available for the 2.8 V6 turbo with an output of 206 kW/280 hp.

A sports chassis set-up, with stiffer springs and dampers, larger brake discs and 18 or 19-inch alloy wheels, is a further option for XWD variants with this engine. (dpa)