Overview & Reviews
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.
- Best-in-class crash scores, long list of standard features, plush highway ride, supportive seats, large trunk.
- Turbo lag at low speeds, suspension too soft for aggressive driving, interior materials could use improvement.
User Reviews:
Showing 41 through 50 of 105.00-
Excellent 2004 Arc - 2004 Saab 9-5
By samthomas - May 21 - 10:00 amI own a new 2004 9-5 Arc 2.3T with about 5,500 miles. The only problem was a rattle in one of the doors, fixed under warranty. The overall design is very good, and strikes a good balance between "sport" and "luxury." The car is loaded with thoughtful features, from the high- pressure headlight washers to the huge trunk. The turbocharged motor and 5-speed auto tranny work well together. Instruments are well laid-out and readable. Cabin is spacious and comfortable, but driver- oriented. Car handles well; suspension is forgiving, but tuned more towards comfort than performance. This is not a car you can fling around.
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The forgotten wagon that is fantastic - 2004 Saab 9-5
By Steven Kafka - May 15 - 10:00 amIt is like driving a Porsche station wagon.
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Saabs Best - 2004 Saab 9-5
By Chagrin - April 2 - 10:00 amThis 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.
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underated fun and luxury - 2004 Saab 9-5
By saabfan - March 8 - 2:00 amThis 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!
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Best Wagon Ive Owned - 2004 Saab 9-5
By maustinpdx - January 13 - 10:00 amI 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.
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Very Reliable & Fun & Economical - 2004 Saab 9-5
By Darren Moon - January 8 - 8:03 amI 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.
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Luxury & Reliability = Awesome - 2004 Saab 9-5
By sizzlinturbo - December 13 - 10:00 amThe 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.
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Single Moms styling - 2004 Saab 9-5
By Ruby Begonia - December 2 - 10:00 amIve 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.
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2004 9-5 aero wagon - 2004 Saab 9-5
By Dan T - October 23 - 5:40 pmI was put-off by an older 9000 I owned before but was impressed the moment I got behind the wheel. Purchased this instead of a BMW wagon because of better interior space, much better mileage and impressive power.
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Excellent chocie for comfort, fun, price - 2004 Saab 9-5
By PattyK - July 26 - 2:00 amWe are extremely satisfied with our SAAB. Considering trading in our other vehicle to get a second SAAB