Overview & Reviews

Cars tend to last about five to six years between redesigns. Occasionally, a company will squeeze out another year, but anything longer is an anomaly. Well, the original Saab 9-5 lasted 11 years, which in human terms is like kicking off at the ripe old age of 178.

Now, our editors initially thought pretty highly of the Saab 9-5, but then they were also pondering "Who Let the Dogs Out?" and chuckling at Monica Lewinsky jokes. As the years went on, the 9-5 sank to the bottom of the midsize luxury sedan pack and eventually nearly disappeared from our attention altogether.

Well, Saab has finally turned a page and there is a new 9-5. Designed when Saab was still owned by General Motors and based on the same platform as the Buick Regal, the 9-5 certainly doesn't have the engineering panache of its German competition. However, it's cheaper than those competitors, it's fun to drive and boasts unique style inside and out. We wouldn't call it class-leading by any means, but it's definitely a worthy alternative in that midsize luxury sedan pack.

Current Saab 9-5
The Saab 9-5 is a midsize luxury sedan available in Turbo4, Turbo4 Premium, Turbo6 XWD and Aero trim levels. The Turbo4 models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, along with a six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is optional. This is certainly a modestly powered engine for the midsize luxury class, and we wonder if shoppers will scoff at a four-cylinder in such a pricey car, but its fuel economy is at least strong -- especially with the manual.

There is another turbocharged engine, however, a 2.8-liter V6 that sends 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels through a standard six-speed automatic. This results in a solid average performance for an all-wheel-drive luxury sedan, while returning competitive fuel economy. With the Aero trim, a sport-tuned suspension, communicative steering, a limited-slip differential and the advanced all-wheel-drive system combine to produce one of the most rewarding and involving driver's cars in the class -- even more so than the BMW 5 Series.

Even the base 9-5 comes standard with features that can be optional on competitor sedans, like driver memory functions, leather upholstery and an iPod interface. Going up through the trims can net you items like a panoramic sunroof, a lane-departure warning system, tri-zone climate control, a navigation system and a rear seat entertainment system.

All of this stuff comes together in a cabin that'll be easily identified as a Saab. The center control stack wraps toward the driver, bringing all controls within easy reach. Other Saab hallmarks include the egg-crate air outlets, the Night Panel switch that dims instrument lights at a single touch and (of course) the ignition switch, though this is now a keyless button. However, many climate and electronics interfaces have been lifted wholesale from General Motors, even if the layout and green backlighting is unique to Saab. These bits are actually quite nice, but like the rest of the interior, just aren't up to Audi or Mercedes standards.

Used Saab 9-5 Models
The current Saab 9-5 dates back to 2010; however, very few were sold that year and it was only offered in loaded, Aero guise. The rest of the lineup arrived for 2011.

The original Saab 9-5 sedan was produced from 1999-2009 and went through several changes over its lifetime -- especially in regards to engines. The 9-5 retained much of its Saab 9000 predecessor's distinctive lines, but replaced the 9000's five-door hatchback design with a more traditional four-door sedan arrangement. The wagon variant followed a year later.

Since this 9-5 lasted so incredibly long, how well it stacks up to the competition depends on how far you go back. Things like equipment levels, interior quality and engineering sophistication will seem relatively stronger when comparing an older 9-5 to an equally aged BMW or Lexus. Regardless of year, however, most drivers will find this Saab 9-5's seats exceptionally comfortable, especially those equipped with optional heating and ventilation. Passenger room was also excellent all around. A split-folding rear seat and nearly 16 cubic feet of trunk space gave it an added level of versatility, while the SportCombi wagon supplied up to 73 cubic feet of cargo space for those with lots to carry.

In the beginning, the 9-5's lineup consisted of a base 9-5 model, an SE version packed with amenities and a performance-oriented Aero model. The standard 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder in the Saab 9-5 base models produced 185 hp (170 hp for '99) and was mated to a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The 9-5 Aero versions featured a 230-horse, 2.3-liter turbo four with a manual transmission. Initially, the 9-5 SE could be powered by either the light-pressure 2.3-liter (170 hp) or a 200-hp, 3.0-liter turbo V6, but starting with the 2000 model year, all SEs had the V6 and the four-speed automatic.

Although it looked similar, the 2002 9-5 underwent extensive reworking. Three distinct models (Linear, Arc and Aero) now had their own style and equipment specs: The previous year's base model became the Linear and offered the 185-hp turbo four, while the SE became the luxury-oriented Arc and had the turbo V6. In addition, a new five-speed automatic was available across the line, and the 9-5 Aero's turbocharged four-cylinder got a power boost to 250 hp. Revisions to steering and suspension helped dynamic performance, while electronic stability control and adaptive front airbags further improved safety. From a used-vehicle purchasing standpoint, going with a 2002 or newer Saab 9-5 is probably a good idea.

Detail changes carried through to 2004, when feature content was shuffled. The Linear model was made a wagon-only trim level and the Arc model dropped its 200-hp V6 in favor of a 220-hp turbo-4. A year later, DVD-based navigation was added to the options list. For '06, the 9-5 received updated exterior styling and a revised suspension, and the high-output 2.3-liter turbo-4 became standard, along with bumping its power up to 260 hp. Additionally, the wagon was renamed the SportCombi, and the familiar Linear, Arc and Aero trim levels went away in favor of a single trim. The Aero and its sport-oriented bits and pieces technically became a package for two years, before resuming its duties as a full-fledged trim alongside the newly christened 2.3T base model.

User Reviews:

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  A pretty fun/good car - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By NewM3owner - August 14 - 8:30 pm

  Bought my 2000 9-5 used in 12/03. Went with the manual tranny which made it a little sportier. Bad turbo lag, but once it is in the turbo, pretty quick. Handling is fairly tight, not sportscar tight, but pretty good. Overall I was happy with this car. It drove well with very few mechanical problems until just recently, then it seems like everything started to fall apart. I just sold it for a 99 M3 w/ 50k miles. I think I am going to notice worlds of difference.

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  Underestimated - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By SaabNY - June 23 - 12:50 am

  I purchased my 2006 9-5 with end of year incentives. We already had a Saab 9-3 in the family which we like a lot. Im very happy stepping up to the 9-5. Similiar understated luxury but with better interior quality and design. I now have 10,000 miles and zero problems. The 9-5 may not be the most modern car on the road but I think the long production run has given Saab a chance to refine the platform and fix a lot of early production issues. Despite some GM parts, the 9-5 still has lots of Saab feel and luckily manages to NOT feel like any GM vehicle that Ive ever driven.

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  9-5 Aero a Blast to Drive - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Mick - June 12 - 6:06 pm

  Ive got to say the 9-5 Aero is the most fun to drive vehicle Ive owned, and Ive had many over the past 20+ years, including a BMW 525i that comes in second to this SAAB. The power is phenomenal, the handling awesome, the ride on the highway is silky smooth. I like how the computer compensates for any type of gas you put in from regular to super. The back seats are comfortable even for a 6-footer, and the passengers back there appreciate the heated seats. Exterior styling is good, but needs an update--the new 9-3 is better looking. For $14,900 I think I got a real bargain here-- wouldnt want to buy a new one at $40K with that kind of depreciation in 3 years though!

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  Fun, Quick, Safe, Comfy Piece of Crap - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By Purveyor of Vehicles - June 5 - 10:00 am

  So its very safe, very comfortable, very fun to drive, pretty quick and all around enjoyable car to drive. However, it was designed poorly and is unreliable and puts a permanent pipeline from your wallet to the mechanic.

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  Need optional towtruck - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By polo - May 21 - 10:00 am

  This car when running has been great. It has been towed in four times. The battery had been replaced three times, once because it blew up damaging under components, another time excessive corrison caused damage to transmission external areas. if this is not a lemon I dont know what is. It has been in the shop now for two + weeks. I cant afford to kep it much longer based on dependability. Its a nice car but the quality is terrible.

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  Bought It New...Hoping Saab Stays In Business! - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By mr_monza - May 3 - 12:03 pm

  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.

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  Hope You Have A Fat Bank Account - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By sundawg18 - March 4 - 10:06 pm

  I bought this car used, from the original owner, with 60,000 miles. In the few years Ive owned it - and over 30,000 miles later - Ive had at least $5,000 worth of work done to it. Around 65,000 it stalled during rush hour. A few years later it started to stall on the freeway - luckily I had enough time to pull off and into a parking lot before it died. The throttle had to be replaced - to the tune of $900, and Ive gone through a couple of batteries that all cost over $200. Now Im facing an oil leak that my mechanic cant seem to find a cap for since Saab isnt making these cars anymore. Correct me if Im wrong, but this seems like an awful lot of work for a car still under 100,000 miles.

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  Third Saab - 2007 Saab 9-5
  By windwomen - January 13 - 5:00 pm

  Nice car! Runs better on Super fuel. The front seat very cozy, back seats nice but not as much room as older models. Pretty sweet to look at in black.

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  Jury is Out - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Stewart in VT - January 10 - 6:26 pm

  Love the car - basically - despite its quirks. Thank God bought a certified pre-owned - 6 months into it - at 50k, I needed a new head gasket and turbocharger - $2,900! (Free w/ CPO) - Engine light came on this week - though nothing more than gas tank cap not on tight. And huge disparity between average city and highway gas mileage - as in 17/29. A discernable turbo lag -- though kick into sport mode transmission and its WOW, even on base model. Nice car, hope it lasts. DO get a CPO warranty for protection - dealer told me its $1,200 of the $16,000 price I paid, and definately insurance worth having until 100,000 miles.

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  2004 95 Aero - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Kumar - January 8 - 10:00 am

  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 :)