Overview & Reviews

Cars tend to last about five to six years between redesigns. Occasionally, a company will squeeze out another year, but anything longer is an anomaly. Well, the original Saab 9-5 lasted 11 years, which in human terms is like kicking off at the ripe old age of 178.

Now, our editors initially thought pretty highly of the Saab 9-5, but then they were also pondering "Who Let the Dogs Out?" and chuckling at Monica Lewinsky jokes. As the years went on, the 9-5 sank to the bottom of the midsize luxury sedan pack and eventually nearly disappeared from our attention altogether.

Well, Saab has finally turned a page and there is a new 9-5. Designed when Saab was still owned by General Motors and based on the same platform as the Buick Regal, the 9-5 certainly doesn't have the engineering panache of its German competition. However, it's cheaper than those competitors, it's fun to drive and boasts unique style inside and out. We wouldn't call it class-leading by any means, but it's definitely a worthy alternative in that midsize luxury sedan pack.

Current Saab 9-5
The Saab 9-5 is a midsize luxury sedan available in Turbo4, Turbo4 Premium, Turbo6 XWD and Aero trim levels. The Turbo4 models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, along with a six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is optional. This is certainly a modestly powered engine for the midsize luxury class, and we wonder if shoppers will scoff at a four-cylinder in such a pricey car, but its fuel economy is at least strong -- especially with the manual.

There is another turbocharged engine, however, a 2.8-liter V6 that sends 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through a standard six-speed automatic. This results in a solid average performance for an all-wheel-drive luxury sedan, while returning competitive fuel economy. With the Aero trim, a sport-tuned suspension, communicative steering, a limited-slip differential and the advanced all-wheel-drive system combine to produce one of the most rewarding and involving driver's cars in the class -- even more so than the BMW 5 Series.

Even the base 9-5 comes standard with features that can be optional on competitor sedans, like driver memory functions, leather upholstery and an iPod interface. Going up through the trims can net you items like a panoramic sunroof, a lane-departure warning system, tri-zone climate control, a navigation system and a rear seat entertainment system.

All of this stuff comes together in a cabin that'll be easily identified as a Saab. The center control stack wraps toward the driver, bringing all controls within easy reach. Other Saab hallmarks include the egg-crate air outlets, the Night Panel switch that dims instrument lights at a single touch and (of course) the ignition switch, though this is now a keyless button. However, many climate and electronics interfaces have been lifted wholesale from General Motors, even if the layout and green backlighting is unique to Saab. These bits are actually quite nice, but like the rest of the interior, just aren't up to Audi or Mercedes standards.

Used Saab 9-5 Models
The current Saab 9-5 dates back to 2010; however, very few were sold that year and it was only offered in loaded, Aero guise. The rest of the lineup arrived for 2011.

The original Saab 9-5 sedan was produced from 1999-2009 and went through several changes over its lifetime -- especially in regards to engines. The 9-5 retained much of its Saab 9000 predecessor's distinctive lines, but replaced the 9000's five-door hatchback design with a more traditional four-door sedan arrangement. The wagon variant followed a year later.

Since this 9-5 lasted so incredibly long, how well it stacks up to the competition depends on how far you go back. Things like equipment levels, interior quality and engineering sophistication will seem relatively stronger when comparing an older 9-5 to an equally aged BMW or Lexus. Regardless of year, however, most drivers will find this Saab 9-5's seats exceptionally comfortable, especially those equipped with optional heating and ventilation. Passenger room was also excellent all around. A split-folding rear seat and nearly 16 cubic feet of trunk space gave it an added level of versatility, while the SportCombi wagon supplied up to 73 cubic feet of cargo space for those with lots to carry.

In the beginning, the 9-5's lineup consisted of a base 9-5 model, an SE version packed with amenities and a performance-oriented Aero model. The standard 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder in the Saab 9-5 base models produced 185 hp (170 hp for '99) and was mated to a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The 9-5 Aero versions featured a 230-horse, 2.3-liter turbo four with a manual transmission. Initially, the 9-5 SE could be powered by either the light-pressure 2.3-liter (170 hp) or a 200-hp, 3.0-liter turbo V6, but starting with the 2000 model year, all SEs had the V6 and the four-speed automatic.

Although it looked similar, the 2002 9-5 underwent extensive reworking. Three distinct models (Linear, Arc and Aero) now had their own style and equipment specs: The previous year's base model became the Linear and offered the 185-hp turbo four, while the SE became the luxury-oriented Arc and had the turbo V6. In addition, a new five-speed automatic was available across the line, and the 9-5 Aero's turbocharged four-cylinder got a power boost to 250 hp. Revisions to steering and suspension helped dynamic performance, while electronic stability control and adaptive front airbags further improved safety. From a used-vehicle purchasing standpoint, going with a 2002 or newer Saab 9-5 is probably a good idea.

Detail changes carried through to 2004, when feature content was shuffled. The Linear model was made a wagon-only trim level and the Arc model dropped its 200-hp V6 in favor of a 220-hp turbo-4. A year later, DVD-based navigation was added to the options list. For '06, the 9-5 received updated exterior styling and a revised suspension, and the high-output 2.3-liter turbo-4 became standard, along with bumping its power up to 260 hp. Additionally, the wagon was renamed the SportCombi, and the familiar Linear, Arc and Aero trim levels went away in favor of a single trim. The Aero and its sport-oriented bits and pieces technically became a package for two years, before resuming its duties as a full-fledged trim alongside the newly christened 2.3T base model.

User Reviews:

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  Great car to by used - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By CaliforniaSaab - November 30 - 8:40 pm

  No better value, as depreciation runs high. Got mine with 23,000 miles for $15k at Carmax. What a deal. Spotless reliability so far, now at 45,000 miles. Very comfortable. Great on freeway. Handling could be a little tighter but thats what you get with FWD.

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  Saab Air Gulper - 2007 Saab 9-5
  By stvakr - November 29 - 5:50 pm

  Brisk acceleration and very fun to drive especially on the highway. Spacious midsize sedan that seats four adults comfortably with a huge trunk, sporty design and feel, and thumping sounding stereo system. When the transmission is shifted to the "sport" mode, the fun meter goes up. With the large oversized gripping Pirellis, the front end steering torque is definitely noticeable.

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  vyl - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By vyl - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Drive alot each year. Bought certified preowned car--affordable comfortable, quality, intended to last a long time and endure incredible mileage. First Saab, love this car. Own a 2000 model 9.5 sedan. Still feels new. Impressed w/preowned program, gas mileage. Ride is wonderful, will move out when needed. Comfort and performance are key features. Love the way we were served at Moore (Richmond, VA) before and after purchase. Because of distance, Charlottesville provides service. Not quite Moore, but adequate. Would buy another Saab in a heartbeat.

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  Great Value - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By jsh1120 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Looking for a non-SUV, sporty, hauler there were three finalists: Saab 9-5, Volvo V70, and 2005 Subaru Legacy. Saab won out on price/value. Close to the Subaru in performance, better mileage than others, classy and comfortable interior. $8500 off msrp sealed the deal. Build quality and fit/finish are excellent. Kick to drive. Enormous cargo capacity, largest of the three. Great drivers car. Excellent passenger accommodations front and rear. All in all, an exellent value that remains distinctive in a world of look- alike SUVs. In-dash cupholder is a joke, and not a good one. Additional cupholder in center console is even worse.

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  Hidden Secret - 2008 Saab 9-5
  By john - November 14 - 1:36 am

  This is a great car that no one knows about. Ive owned BMW, Audi and VW, and the Saab, for the money, beats them all! GM should leverage this company for more of its designs in this fuel conscious age. After incentives, etc., this car is nearly $17,000 less than a BMW or Audi! Plus it has a GREAT warranty and nice options. If you want a nameplate, look elsewhere, but anyone that wants a solid and practical car should look at SAAB. I just wish GM would market them better!!

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  Aero is the best - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By NCAlan - November 10 - 7:16 am

  Got my Aero used from the official dealership here in Canada and so far quite satisfied. Had some initial electric problems like broken CDchanger but its being fixed by the dealership. Otherwise this is the best car I ever owned. Drove it already for around 8,000km during last 2 months, mostly highway driving, and Aero performs extremely well on the high- speed. Overtaking is a blast, and acceleration, even with the automatic transmission, puts that nice smile on your face. Sport mode is must on the freeway. Aero drives and handles like a small sports car providing comfort of the luxury sedan. In my opinion exterior styling of the Aero model is a work of art that stands out of the crowd.

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  Need another car - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By redsaabfun - November 7 - 5:16 am

  For the first several years we owned this car, it was our weekend car. So there was very little that went wrong. We only put 4k miles p/year on it. Once it became my wifes every day car, the problems started ramping up. Lost the serpentine belt 50 miles from home at 14,000 miles. Two water pumps, digital display replaced once, turbo problems. The car is in the shop right now for yet another water pump, that was replaced, yes you guess it, just past the shop warranty of 1 year or 12k miles.

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  Saab 9-5 is a great car - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Timothy Moore - November 4 - 2:33 pm

  I have been very pleased with my second Saab purchase. I get a kick out of driving this car and cant keep it away from my brother. It is a great, enjoyable, classy and beautiful car. While quirky in some respects, it is a car that stands out from the rest. I love my 9-5.

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  Saab 95 2002 4dr 2.3t - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By SAAB Driver - November 2 - 6:46 am

  Beautiful Car! I got this car and it needed a few minor check ups, that cost me around $200, but after all Im buying a used car, i actually had in mind a little more than that! :) the car has GREAT performance, and Im loving it, its classy and sexy at the same time!

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  Best All-Around Family Sedan - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By ben james - October 28 - 2:00 am

  Always use Edmunds for my research, so after deciding on a 2000 Saab 9-5 SE I felt obligated to provide a review. This vehicle is the only european car to make Consumer Reports list of "Best Bets" and having owned it for over a month, I can see why. Hands down the safest, most reliable and most enjoyable family sedan on the market. A delight to drive, even better than my friends BMW 5-series (at much less an upkeep cost). Its comfortable interior and Saab design belies the incredible acceleration provided by the V6. I could not be happier with my purchase and look forward to many years of enjoyable driving!