Overview & Reviews

Although it looks similar to last year's model, the 2002 9-5 has undergone extensive changes. There are now three distinct models, each with its own look and feature content. A new five-speed automatic transmission is available on all models, while the top-of-the-line Aero gets more power. Revisions to both the steering and suspension systems increase performance, while a new electronic stability control system and adaptive front airbags improve safety.

• Satisfying performance, impressive luxury, reasonable price, wagon availability.

• Quirky Saab design attributes and ergonomics, uninspired exterior styling.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 106.00

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  Solid car - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By JAM - December 13 - 7:46 pm

  Ive owned my 9-5 for 3.5 years. Bought from a local coming off lease. Ive put approximately 90k miles on and am amazed at the mileage I get (mostly highway driving) I average 32- 34 highway depending on A/C needs. This car is quiet, comfortable, and somewhat fun to drive. It handles well but isnt a sportscar. It accelerates well especially in sport mode, but wont slap you in you seat. I bought a Maxima and it sits in the garage while I half heartedly attempt to sell this car - that should tell you something. The total package is well done if not overly exciting in any one area.

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  Thought I got a STEAL but..... - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Phillyc - July 14 - 6:43 pm

  Purchased in May of 2006 w/36,000 mi. on the clock, paid $19,500. Current mileage 65,800 mi. Wanted to love this car but it has been in the shop more than any other car I have owned, 7 or 8 times in the 2 1/2 years I have owned her. The interior could use an update, but the seats are super comfy. I really like the exterior of the car, looks fast standing still. Gas mileage in town is poor for a 4 cyl., only about 17 mpg due to the turbo but hwy mileage is surprisingly good at about 31 mpg. Just too many little things. Warranty ran out in Sept. and just today I spent $1800 on repairs and the 60,000 mile service. Sad to say she will probably get traded in soon.

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  9-5 Aero Sportwagaon Automatic - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Anthony - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Love the car. I am a 31 year old single male and I dive a wagon!. I traded my GMC Jimmy in for the SAAB because I wanted something more luxurious that was sporty, good on gas and could haul my stuff from HomeDepot. I got it all and in a very sexy (at least I think so) package. The car had a few issues when I picked it up but they all were taken car of in a prompt manner by the service department. I would give the service department an excellent rating and the sales department a moderate rating. My sales man was not well informed about the cars features and suggested I try things out to see if they worked. I hope the car proves to be reliable.

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  back again - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By spot - September 2 - 10:00 am

  This is my second 9/5. Had a 2001 and loved it. The 2002 is a little softer visually and doesnt have the same edge as the 01 did. Many improvements between the two years though. Ive enjoyed now having an auto vs. stick. The sport mode really makes a difference.

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  Tired - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By bluejay - March 11 - 7:13 pm

  This has been a good family, well maintained, gently driven car with some surprising expenses-new turbocharger 3 yrs ago, quirky starting, and annoying LED display failure that would cost $500 to replace. It handles well and the lack of pep is offset by reasonably good gas mileage20/30+ on trips. Not sure I will get another due to the change of ownership and increased quality issues with newer models identified by Consumer Reports.

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  2002 Saab 9-5 linear - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By alex205 - December 19 - 10:45 pm

  They are brilliant cars if you maintain them well! one of the 2 things that let you down is the Ignition coil which needs to be replace every 7-9 year of normal driving. And the other thing is the water pump that need to be replaced every 10 years or it will break and jam the timing belt and stop your engine. after 8-10 years you will notice a small oil leakage its okay dont worry its the head gasket thats all but you must fi it as soon as possible cause the oil might catch fire! Saabs run better in cold weather than middle east countries!

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  I Laughed, I cried, It Moved Me - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By jzeilinger - March 27 - 9:10 pm

  This has to be the craziest love/hate relationship Ive ever had with a car. One day I hated it, the next day I loved it. This car has a ton of power for a 4-banger and it was a total hoot to drive. It handled corners extremely well with very little body lean, was incredibly quick, roomy, huge trunk, responsive, and got very good gas mileage for a car of this size. I enjoyed this car tremendously. This was my 2nd 9-5 so that tells you something about my love for car. The Aero is pavement hungry & the conservative sport sedan look is very deceptive - cop magnet, be careful!

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  Not Quite Perfect... - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Chris - December 7 - 12:16 am

  Was a great car at the beginning, until I started having quite a few mechanical problems. Water pump went twice, turbo needed replacing, ignition module left me stranded on the highway, and a few other smaller things went all withing the 1st two and a half years. Maybe I had a lemon, but it was enough to put me off of getting another Saab. When everything is working, the car was a dream on the highway. It gearing felt a bit off when city driving with manual transmission.

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  Most reliable - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By YEO - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Despite friends disbelief that I can buy a GM, I have found the car to be one of the most reliable that Ive owned (VW Jetta, Volvo 850, Subaru Legacy). Poor resale value means much better value for money on a used vehicle.

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  A Unique Blend of Virtues - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Charlie - December 13 - 1:46 am

  This is a great all-around family vehicle, with something for everyone. Its got great interior space, attractive exterior appearance, exciting turbo performance, economical gas mileage, and reasonable mechanical reliability.