4 Star Reviews for 2002 Saab 9-5

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.64/5 Average
106 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

Pros:
  • Satisfying performance, impressive luxury, reasonable price, wagon availability.
Cons:
  • Quirky Saab design attributes and ergonomics, uninspired exterior styling.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 106.00
  • 9-5 Linear Wagon - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    Solid Car, reliable, fun to drive, versatile, cargo hauler, sporty, multi- purpose, original and different. This car is multi-faceted and serves multiple functions well. It has lots of character and always fun to drive on country roads and turns into a real cruiser on the highway in 5th gear.

  • First SAAB - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    I was cross shopping top of the line TL, I35, Passat. Here are factors for deciding on SAAB: The PRICE - I was cross shopping among the low 30s so you can guess how much I paid for my SAAB fully loaded Performance - I test drove all 4 mentioned above. In reality, ARE YOU going to do 0-60 for all the red lights? I was looking for more of low- end torque to pass on highways and consistent power throughout and excellent handling (which ESP helps a lot) Features - Out of 4 cars mentioned, SAAB was only short of (Nav sys of Acura, 4wd of Passat, Rear Shade of I35 (not to mention 255hp)) But, other than that SAAB had much more features

  • Fast comfortable sedan - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    Just bought this 2002 Saab 9-5 Aero sedan. Went with the 5-speed manual. This car is very, very fast at cruising speeds and is the perfect highway passing vehicle. Torque steer and turbo lag are noticeable when driving around town. I really like the Xenons as this is my first car with that type of lighting. As an engineer, I am attracted to the engine technology; 250hp/258lb-ft is mighty impressive from 2.3 liters of displacement. Furthermore, the engine management and gearing allow me to get great gas mileage. Also, I wanted something that you dont see everyday, so the Saab is way cooler than a 330i (for example) in that respect. Overall, I am very happy.

  • Fast comfortable sedan - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    Just bought this 2002 Saab 9-5 Aero sedan. Went with the 5-speed manual. This car is very, very fast at cruising speeds and is the perfect highway passing vehicle. Torque steer and turbo lag are noticeable when driving around town. I really like the Xenons as this is my first car with that type of lighting. As an engineer, I am attracted to the engine technology; 250hp/258lb-ft is mighty impressive from 2.3 liters of displacement. Furthermore, the engine management and gearing allow me to get great gas mileage. Also, I wanted something that you dont see everyday, so the Saab is way cooler than a 330i (for example) in that respect. Overall, I am very happy.

  • Very Good Car, Great Deal! - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    I have owned my 95 Linear since 2002 and have driven on the German autobahn and I can tell you that it will do every bit of the 160 mph on the dash and it does it smoothly. Some say that the turbo is not quick enough well for me, it is plenty quick. I know because the aggressive driving on german road. The ride is very smooth. The gas mileage is great and I am sure it would get better if I slowed down.

  • Done with Saabs - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    Read just a sample listing of some of the mechanical and electronic issues people have had and that has been my experience and then some. The most recent and the last episode with any Saab product was the turbo. Done. This car was constantly in the garage. No mas.

  • 9-5 Arc - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    3rd Saab Ive owned. Initially loved it. Fun to drive, plenty of interior room, solid handling and quick. Saabs poor quality control has convinced me this is my last Saab however. Ive had numerous failures of the temperature gauge. the fuel gauge and missing pixels on the dashboard Saab information display (SID). Although it is just a display problem caused by poorly engineered wiring, to fix the problem you have to buy a whole new computer that costs hundreds of dollars.

  • Arcs Alright - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    Overall, very pleased. Im still surprised it only has 200hp since its performance belies that number! Its a blast to enter a highway with the rush of acceleration and launching it from a stop light in the Sport mode will snap your neck back.

  • Good value for used luxury car - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    I bought my 02 Linear used, with low miles and it was pampered. An insane bargain! Really am enjoying the smooth and quiet ride, great turbo power from a 4 cylinder, and gets good gas mileage too...26-28 in mixed driving. If you own one of these, I highly suggest joining an online Saab forum to educate yourself even further....and to save $$. Like any European make, they can be a bit high maintenance. Thats why a lot of Saab owners are DIYers or have a well trusted mechanic programmed in their speed dial. It is mandatory to use synthetic oil in turbo models, and I wouldnt buy any used Saab without interrogating the previous owner about their maintenance schedule until they wept aloud.

  • All good but for the little glitches - 2002 Saab 9-5
    By -

    My wife bought this car on ebay. I was initially skeptical and nervous about the higher cost of repair, but this car is very fun to drive and the swedish styling and lux features are hard to beat (especially for the price). The repair bills can be a bit high, but normal for this class. Nothing major has gone wrong though and I can live with a broken sunroof, no backup alarm battery, the cup holder issue, 1 busted seat heater cause ultimately I really like being in this car.

Saab 9-5 Reviews By Year:
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