Saab has been slung through the mud over the past few years, amidst back-and-forth reports of a sale. Coverage in 2009 wasn’t particularly confidence inspiring.

With that as a backdrop, it is a wonder Saab sold cars any last year. The company logged just 5,445 units sold. Recently, the talk has all been positive, with Saab’s message on the new 9-5 and 9-4X and future models to come.

Advertising has also resumed, helping to make the marketplace aware of Saab’s return. At the National Automotive Dealers Association, Saab has revealed to dealers its predictions for 2011′s sales.

The brand is predicting 15,000 to 20,000 vehicles this year, aided by a rebounding economy, the new 9-5 which will have full availability, and the 9-4X crossover arriving in May. The 9-4X particularly has a lot of promise as crossovers are the hottest market segment in the United States.

Also making news is a promotion that the brand plans to launch called Independence Day, which celebrates 1-year since being purchased from General Motors.

We aren’t sure it will connect with the general populace though, who are most likely unaware of the significance of such a promotion. 2011 also happens to be the year Saab celebrates its 100th anniversary. Hopefully Saab will ring in its next century with significantly increased sales.