2004 Saab 9-5 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.71/5 Average
105 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2004, the Linear model is available only as a wagon. Arc models drop their 200-horsepower V6 and standard automatic transmission in favor of a 220-hp, four-cylinder turbo and a five-speed manual; an automatic remains optional. The Arc also picks up lower body cladding and is eligible for a 17-inch sport wheel package. Bi-xenon headlights are now offered as a stand-alone option on Arc and Aero models. Ventilated front seats, previously standard on the Arc, are now optional. Additionally, Aero models get a more aggressive lower body kit.

Pros:
  • Best-in-class crash scores, long list of standard features, plush highway ride, supportive seats, large trunk.
Cons:
  • Turbo lag at low speeds, suspension too soft for aggressive driving, interior materials could use improvement.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 105.00
  • The forgotten wagon that is fantastic - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    It is like driving a Porsche station wagon.

  • Bought It New...Hoping Saab Stays In Business! - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    We bought this car in August of 2004 while my wife was pregnant. We needed the utility of a station wagon but wanted something that was fun to drive and had a decent level of luxury appointments. The Saab has not disappointed! This is a medium sized wagon thats comfortable and has plenty of space for a trip to the beach. It gets over 30 MPG on the highway and has a very spirited performance from its 220 HP turbo. Its not our only car, so it has low mileage (around 32 K). It has not had any significant problems at all----a very safe and reliable car. The quality of the materials is excellent. The paint finish remains like new. No complaints at this point---still love driving it.

  • Saabs Best - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    This is second to none in its class. More roomy cabin than the others and makes bmw look lazy and Audi look cheap. Dash designed like an airplane, drives like one too. We purchased the manual transmission for the wagon and got sports, function and fuel economy just before the gas $ went up. We went to the auto show in NYC looking for a bmw or Audi and came out sure that the Saab 95 Aero was the right vehicle. This is the only car that felt right to my wife when she sat in it. Saab has done a great job marketing this car to women as we can now testify. We also look at used car reliability ratings and this is the only one in its class with a positive rating.

  • underated fun and luxury - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    This is my first saab after owning 4 mercedes. What a pleasant suprise!! Its powerful, luxrious, fun to drive and NOT ordinary like the lot of new Mercedes, BMWs, Jaguars etc.. Not that they are bad in any way....but this is a wonderful treat!

  • Best Wagon Ive Owned - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    I bought this wagon to replace my 9-3 which had almost 200k on it. I was really dissapointed that SAAB stopped making a hatchback, so I looked at the 9-5 wagon. I dont think Ive ever liked a car more. Its comfortable, civilized, great ride - smooth without feeling mushy and give you a real sense of security. Considering the size and power a steady 25mpg in mixed driving is great. Ive gotten low 30s on road trips.

  • 2004 95 Aero - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    Very comfi, did not realize what i was missing (I have an Isuzu Trooper). Very snug and well fitting seats. Great pickup and handling (not quite the same as a BMW 325i), but for 36K I got much more car for a little bit in terms of pickup and handling. Saabs paid attention to small things like the two sunshades/visors. Controls are very ergonomic in addition. Cant say much about the reliabilty, i bought it on the 10th of july and have done only about 400miles. Overall fun car. Bought the car for my wifes bday, shed happy, but she thinks that this is too complicated for her to handle, something that I am not in a hurry to correct :)

  • Very Reliable & Fun & Economical - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    I purchased this vehicle 6 months ago and have loved it from the first drive. Very responsive for an economical car, good styling and very comfortable interior. I would highly recommend this vehicle.

  • Shame on GM - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    My initial love affair with this car has gone cold. Ive had this car almost 1 year, bought it as Certified Pre Owned, and it is bordering on qualifying as a lemon. Ten trips to the dealership, mostly for brake related problems (noise, vibration, ABS/TCS lights coming on). My nearest dealership is 100+ miles away, so major inconvenience. Today, check engine light came on, a week after getting it back from the shop. Typical story. In the cars defense, a lot of the trips are due to dealership/mechanic incompetence, but isnt that part of the package? I only recommend a 9-5 if you live near a dealership and they supply loaners, and you get extended warranty.

  • Luxury & Reliability = Awesome - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    The 9-5 Arc has a 3.0. It doesnt exhibit turbo lag at low speeds. What it lacks in a sport suspension is made up for in superior ride comfort. You no longer have to feel every pot hole. For $38,000 you cant buy a roomier, faster, more functional mid-luxury vehicle. The 9-5Arc comes loaded with standard features that would be pricey options with any other maker. How many under $40,000 sedans do you know that come standard with heated and air conditioned front seats, assymetrical turbo and Harmon Kardon sound system? How many of them hold the worlds highest safety ratings? Let me know. Then we can talk about your 6.7 rating.

  • Single Moms styling - 2004 Saab 9-5
    By -

    Ive driven Saabs for many years. I love this car however I may have to give it up. My 15 year old is 62" and his leg dont fit very well anymore, especially with his sister and all their gear. Please, please dont tell me to get a minivan.

Saab 9-5 Reviews By Year:
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