The Saab PhoeniX concept, unveiled in 2011, featured a prototype 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor, forming a hybrid powertrain. This system was designed to showcase Saab's "aeroX" philosophy, blending Scandinavian design with efficient, high-performance technology. The petrol engine, derived from GM's global small engine family, was tuned to work synergistically with the electric drive for responsive acceleration and reduced emissions.
Fitted exclusively to the single PhoeniX concept car, this powertrain was engineered as a technology demonstrator for future Saab production models, emphasizing low CO2 output and strong torque delivery. Emissions targets were aligned with anticipated Euro 6 standards, utilizing direct injection and turbocharging alongside regenerative braking from the electric motor to achieve its efficiency goals.
As a non-production concept, no official service bulletins or long-term reliability data exist. The powertrain's development was halted following Saab Automobile's bankruptcy in late 2011. Consequently, the PhoeniX and its hybrid system remain a unique, one-off engineering study with no documented field issues or updates.
The PhoeniX concept was designed to meet projected Euro 6 standards but was never certified as it did not enter series production.
The Saab PhoeniX powertrain is a prototype 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid system developed for a single 2011 concept car. It combines direct injection with an integrated electric motor to deliver a combined output targeting 200 PS, prioritizing efficiency and performance. Designed for future compliance, it aimed for Euro 6 emissions targets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol / Electric Hybrid | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.5 mm | |
| Power output | Combined ~200 PS (estimated) | |
| Torque | Not Available | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Target: Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | Not Available | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Not Available | |
| Dry weight | Not Available |
As a non-production concept, the PhoeniX powertrain has no practical ownership implications. Its design suggested strong low-end torque from the turbo and electric motor, suitable for dynamic driving. No maintenance schedules, oil specifications, or service procedures were ever published, as the system was never intended for customer use or long-term durability testing.
Oil Specs: No official oil specification exists for this prototype system.
Emissions: Targeted Euro 6 compliance; never officially certified (Saab PhoeniX Press Kit 2011).
Power Ratings: Combined output of ~200 PS is an estimate from concept stage materials (Saab PhoeniX Press Kit 2011).
Saab Automobile AB: PhoeniX Concept Press Kit (Geneva Motor Show 2011)
General Motors: Global Small Engine Architecture Documentation
The Saab PhoeniX powertrain was a bespoke, one-off system designed exclusively for the PhoeniX concept car unveiled in 2011. No platform-specific adaptations or revisions were made, as the project was cancelled before production. There are no licensed partnerships or derivative applications. This engine was never fitted to any other vehicle.
The PhoeniX concept car is unique, with VIN YS3FF76E9B1000001. The powertrain is not identifiable by a conventional engine code, as it was a prototype. Visually, it can be identified by its integration within the PhoeniX concept's body, which features distinctive "aeroX" design language, scissor doors, and a wraparound windscreen. No service parts or technical documentation for this specific powertrain exist outside of Saab's historical concept archives.
As a single, non-production concept vehicle, the Saab PhoeniX has no documented reliability issues or failure statistics. No government or OEM data exists for this powertrain, as it never underwent durability testing or entered the consumer market. Its operational life was limited to promotional events.
Analysis derived from Saab press materials (2011) and historical records. No technical bulletins or government failure statistics exist for this non-production concept.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB PHOENIX.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with SAAB or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
SAAB Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialSAAB documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
