Open-topped, green and sporty new Saab

When the doors open to the Paris Show next month visitors should make sure they stop by the Saab stand, as it features a rather cool new concept from the Swedes.

The 9-X Air BioHybrid concept previews the next generation of Saab design and how a new open-topped model could look.

Based on the 9-X concept on display in Geneva earlier this year, the 'Air' version features a new roof design Saab calls the 'Canopy Top', which appears to be completely flat in shape and disappears out of sight when stowed.

Though the sporty stance and detailing of the 9-X is likely to influence future Saab models, its powertrain is perhaps of more relevance in the short term.

Saab has fitted a turbocharged 1.4-litre unit that has been optimised to run on E85 bio-ethanol. So-fuelled, nearly 200bhp is produced, allowing a 0-62mph time of 8.1 seconds, yet CO₂ emissions are claimed to be just 107g/km and fuel consumption is up to 56.5mpg running on regular petrol.

A small motor-generator is fitted to aid acceleration, starting and energy recovery from braking, while a compact lithium-ion battery pack stores the energy under the boot floor.

Shane O' Donoghue