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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  Very Impressed! - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Lisa in Michigan - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Was only thinking of buying a new car, but when I test-drove the Saab 9-5, I had to have it! I had driven a Jeep Cherokee for 7 years, and needed a change. This car fit the bill - made driving fun again and even handles better than my Jeep in the snow. Just about everything about this vehicle screams style - I get so many compliments. Great car at a great price (exceptional incentives).

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  Linear 5speed sedan - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By newsaabguy1 - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I also shopped the 9-3, X-type 2.5, VW Passat & Jetta, Audi A4, Volvo V40 & S60, IS300 and Nissan Maxima. The combination of performance, style, safety & luxury features, and comfort in the 9-5 were unbeatable at my transaction price just over $28k (thanks to GM employee discount and $3k incentive). Assuming the reliability is there, I might actually keep this one longer than my average of 2 years. Im glad they resisted the urge to Passat-ize the car with chrome in 02. I think the overall shape will age very well, I really cant see any changes in the interior for 02 except the color & finish of the dash veneer.

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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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  2002 Saab 9-5 Linear - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Drew2931 - May 7 - 10:03 pm

  I bought this car off eBay at a great deal. I love driving it, very comfortable, GREAT gas mileage (approx 32 mpg on highway, 20 mpg in town). I love the styling - it doesnt look like everyone elses car. I have had no maintenance issues at all. The dashboard cup holder works great - just need two of them. Performance while not outstanding is good enough to keep it fun.

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  Great Car - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Sedona - April 10 - 2:00 am

  All Round Best car I ever drove. Have had MB BMW . Best for the money.

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  Give me back my 9-3 - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Jim - April 4 - 8:23 am

  In the last 18 months this car has been in the shop 45 days. Transmission hesitates and dogs out, sunroof fixed four times, engine light continues to come on, climate control blows cold air in the front seat and hot air in the back seat, drivers door handle fell off, two climate vents fell apart, air conditioning cant stand up to a California summer. Saab wont stand behind their product and were stuck with an unreliable car. In six months have gone from BEING Saabs #1 fan to vowing to never buy another. Just crossed the 9-7x off my list.

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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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  Meets Expectations - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Baron - March 2 - 9:40 pm

  Got an automatic linear with the ESP, Harmon-Kardon Audio, memory steats, etc. package. Smooth and sporty feel even with snows (these make the car as good as a 4WD in winter where originals are sketchy) Improved suspension from old 9-5 helps but it still understeers a bit. Great trunk room which is key since I went from a pickup to the 9-5.

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  Nothing But Praise - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Copa - February 25 - 10:00 am

  Excellent Car. If you want a good size wagon with great performance, the Saab Aero is it. Bigger than the 540 wagon and much less than either the BMW or Audi. The best bang for the buck.