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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  Pleased with Saab 9-5 Aero wagon - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By wendieb04 - June 3 - 8:53 am

  The car has been very comfortable and fun to drive. This is the most horse power I have had, felt I had power to maneuver when needed in traffic. Gas economy is good for size of car it is. When I have had passengers with me they have always commented what a nice ride they are having. I agree that back seat is just about as comfortable as the front and plenty of leg room. I think you get a great value for the money. Have had 2 minor recall issues I have had to get fixed. One complaint is that covered maintenance is only at 5k, 15k, 30k and 45k. Oil changes between every 5k are not covered.

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  Very Good Car, Great Deal! - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By SAAB MAN - April 17 - 1:33 am

  I have owned my 95 Linear since 2002 and have driven on the German autobahn and I can tell you that it will do every bit of the 160 mph on the dash and it does it smoothly. Some say that the turbo is not quick enough well for me, it is plenty quick. I know because the aggressive driving on german road. The ride is very smooth. The gas mileage is great and I am sure it would get better if I slowed down.

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  Do Not Buy Unless Youre Rich! - 2007 Saab 9-5
  By veadp - April 5 - 6:07 pm

  I have a 2007 Saab 9-5 Aero with Automatic Transmission. It has 93,000km. Do Not Buy This Car Unless Money Grows On Trees For You! If the car is working, its a joy to drive, extremely comfortable, nice and responsive, with just enough power. However, this car is known for Ignition Coil Issues and Fuel Pump Issues, among other things. Normally, these parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive to replace, however, Saab just had to be like BMW, Benz and Audi and the cost to replace parts are ridiculously Expensive and Only the OEM parts will work! I had to replace the Igntion Coils ($500), the MAF Sensor ($250) and Fuel Pump ($500). And the car still doesnt work properly!

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  Not a perfect car but fun to drive - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By dd - March 16 - 3:06 pm

  Bought it with some warranty still in effect. Good thing, needed a whole new heating system and a turbo almost immediately. But looks great, drives very well and doesnt drink a lot of gas! Best part is driving curvy hills - sticks to the road like a sports car. And I do that almost every day to get to work.

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  Not worth the money - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By shellEy - February 28 - 7:36 pm

  For a car that costs as much as this did, I expected much higher quality. The engineers did a poor job of ergonomic design, parts break (and when they do, its *very* expensive to fix), and there are known bugs which Saab doesnt seem to care about fixing. (Repairs on my car in 100,000 miles: fuel pump, brakes (twice!), rear-hatch-closed sensor, engine-temp gauge...) My pet peeve is if you set the interior temperature, I expect the car to maintain that temp. Instead, itll either be too hot or too cold.

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  Love my 9-5, when its running! - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By Jessica Gochee - February 1 - 6:38 am

  I bought this car in April 2015 with 131k miles. It ran GREAT for about 2k miles then one day I hopped in it while it was parked in my driveway and wouldnt start. I had no previous issues and the breakdown came as a total surprise. Turns out the starter had gone out due to an underlying key ignition issue. I have to physically turn they key back to the "on" position immediately after starting. I believe the previous owner did not know the importance of this issue. The starter had probably alot of stress on it due to the key not always being turned back and the starter constantly turning and grinding on other things in the car. After I replaced the starter which I got pretty cheap from eeuroparts.com, it ran good for about another thousand miles. Then while I was on the interstate the car just shut off completely while I was driving with no warning signs and was stuck on the side of the road. Turns out the fuel pump went out at 132k. My dad is a certified mechanic and does all my car repairs and he has consistently been very impressed with the overall mechanical design of the car. Replacing the fuel pump was a breeze because it is located right under the back seat! Nice and easy fix. I have had other issues with a squeaky serpentine belt. But the biggest problem so far has been the oil. I do not suggest running 10W-40 like the car initially recommends. 10 weight is entirely too thick for that car and caused some clogging problems. I kept getting an oil alert warning light and couldnt figure out why because my dip stick read that the oil level was fine. Then the lifters started to tick very loudly. Luckily my dad figured out the issue before it was too late. It ended up being a simple fix with cleaning out the oil pan and drilling some bigger holes in the screen to allow oil to pass through much easier. We plan to switch to synthetic at the next oil change, which is what everyone else recommends too. Still havent fixed the ignition switch but it will be fine if you just turn the key like it is supposed to be. Overall, I couldnt have asked for a better used car! I bought it for $3250 and have put about $800 and most likely will not need to spend much more. It is so fun to drive. Stylish and unique! I get compliments everywhere I go and the turbo is so nice. The manual transmission truly makes me feel like I own a jet. The interior is far ahead of its time in terms of its technology and design. Despite these problems, I love it and want to keep it forever. I have not minded putting out the money for these repairs because my father and I are convinced that as long as we keep up the maintenance that it will run till the wheels fall off. I would tell anyone to get a saab that has been taken car of.

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  Saab 9-5 Arc - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By - December 10 - 2:00 am

  In 2000 miles, Ive experienced a car with oustanding highway & city driving capabilities. The seats are exceptionally comfortable (w/ heat and a/c !) Driving through a downpour on the highway provided me a great deal of confidence due to traction & stability control. The Sport mode on the trans. launches the car like it has 50 more hp The stereo (240 watt Harmonn Karden) is awesome. The build quality is very good.

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  Saab 9-5 Arc - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By gtoman - December 10 - 2:00 am

  In 2000 miles, Ive experienced a car with oustanding highway & city driving capabilities. The seats are exceptionally comfortable (w/ heat and a/c !) Driving through a downpour on the highway provided me a great deal of confidence due to traction & stability control. The Sport mode on the trans. launches the car like it has 50 more hp The stereo (240 watt Harmonn Karden) is awesome. The build quality is very good.

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  Tow after Tow after Tow after Tow - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By hatesaab03 - December 5 - 10:36 am

  I had purchased this vehicle not even 2 weeks and it died on me. I had bought it with about 57K miles, and two weeks later on the way to a mini vacation it leaves me stranded in the middle of the freeway. I took it back to the selling dealer and also their Saab dealer and they slapped the machine on it and "Nothing is wrong with it, it drives like a champ." Again it had just died as i was accelerating through town, and then my speed gauge gradually goes down once again! On my way back from work on the freeway it died again! DO NOT BUY THIS MODEL. By the way i failed to mention i had to waste my money towing this vehicle every single time it died on me. STAY AWAY!

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  Done with Saabs - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By otto - November 16 - 10:00 am

  Read just a sample listing of some of the mechanical and electronic issues people have had and that has been my experience and then some. The most recent and the last episode with any Saab product was the turbo. Done. This car was constantly in the garage. No mas.