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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  Saab 95 Aero - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Mark Rutenberg - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I have owned several performance cars, but this is clearly the most satisfying to drive regardless of price. I believe tha this is due to a combination of unique feedback to the driver and a sensation from the turbo that I can only describe as "surfing on a wave of torque." A truly excellent car. An additional virtue is its volumnous room, particularly for the back seat passengers. I dont use the back seat often, but when I do it is usually for someone important enough to want to seat confortably.

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  Who Thought A Wagon Could Be Such Fun - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Partha Mohanram - August 26 - 5:33 am

  We were looking for a Wagon in 2003. Our initial choices were the Audi A6 and Volvo XC 70. Didnt think of Saab as we wanted AWD. However, with all its safety features, electronic stability protection, Traction control etc, we dont miss not having AWD. We chose the Saab, and I think we made a great choice. This car is great fun to drive, reliable, spacious and comfortable. Fuel Economy is terrific, we get close to 25 mpg for city/highway combo driving. The seats are very comfortable, and the console display reminds you of a cockpit. Love the "cooled" seats - no need to sweat with leather seats in summer.

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  Understated wealth - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By aerodude - August 19 - 4:53 pm

  Such a great car! This is my 4th Saab but my first 9-5. I do a lot of highway driving (cape cod every weekend) Weekends i avg 300 miles and weekdays I drive about 500-700 and the car gobbles them all up with composure and confidence Some people will say Saabs are nothing but problems, but I find that if you actually maintain the car like youre suppose to, then not much will happen. This car has been wonderful to own. Its fast and agile, yet i avg 29-31 mpg on a regular basis. Great car for New England winters with snow tires of course. I plan on keeping this for a long time as its holding up better than I expected. We also have a convertible and its just as good.

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  What a Ride! - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Dublj - August 17 - 7:03 pm

  I bought this car one month ago and have had a superior experience so far. My concern with imports such as this is repair cost, and Saab has covered that with a 100,000 mile/3 year warranty. One test drive and I was hooked. This car can move - 250 horses never felt so good - there is a lag in the turbo, but in sport mode that is taken care of for the most part. Ride is smooth and as safe as they come. Seats are ultra comfortable. My only regret is having waited so long to take the plunge with this vehicle. Price is right especially compared to others in this "class", with none of the repair concerns because of the warranty, which does not cost more like it does for the Maxima.

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  Amazing Car - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Pete Saab 9-5 - August 1 - 2:00 am

  FIRST -- I have an automatic, not a 5 speed (but Edmunds doesnt give that option). I really wanted a stick -- drove the previous model 9-5 -- then the 02 with Automatic in sport mode -- great transmission. The car handles better then a comparable BMW wagon -- its taughter than Audi -- far more luxurious than VW Passat. PLenty of room for passengers, and versatile cargo area.

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  Lucked out. - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By Austin - July 25 - 9:33 am

  I bought mine in 2008 with 100k and now have 190k. Biggest expense was fuel pump at about 150k. I still have the clutch I bought it with and have had no prob with turbo yet. Change oil every 3 to 5k at the cheap places but sometimes my independent SAAB Tech or the SAAB dealer. I have a back up Ig. cass. but still havent had to use it. Even the pixels on the SID arent too bad either. I did have some belts break and that broke open an oil line ($1,000 fix). Not as reliable or as trouble free as our 2000 Camry but much more fun though.

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  Saab - highly underrated balance - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By RSDonahoe - July 16 - 10:00 am

  this is an outstanding car with the perfect combination of safety and performance. While we all want performance, few are willing to give up safety....this is perfect balance.

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  Drive one and you will buy one. - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By pigman - June 27 - 5:00 am

  Great car for size. Average 22.5 mpg on last 8K. Mileage is same as some smaller cars. Really need to use cruise to maximize. The Aero option again is the only way to go on a Saab. Bigger tires and add the spoiler and the car goes from a plain Jane to the girl every bad boy wants. Power is there when you need to pass. My 96 was more sure footed but this model is more agile. The cabin updates for rear passengers was needed. The seats are comfortable but not like the 9000 Aero. As long as Saab is making cars I will be an owner.

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  Better thatn the Reviews - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By LMW - June 27 - 2:00 am

  This is a superb car and a wonderful ride. Especially at $32,400 I paid for it. The only comparable car for me is the BWM 525 and that was almost 18 grand more. I needed good room in the back seat for three kids and this had it. The ride is great as is the handling. The turbo lag that has been described in otehr reviews is non- existent. I highly recommend it.

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  Great Car - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Tommy M - June 14 - 2:00 am

  The 9-5 has me sold on Saab. Fun to drive, safe and reliable are my imperatives since I am in the car so much. At highway speed, this little turbin can roar. First gear is a little short or Id give this straight tens.