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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  Junk - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By Swen - October 6 - 10:36 am

  Beware of the lousy GM powertrain - it will suck your bank account dry! One thing after another and always very pricey. Timing belt replaced at 58K but the timing belt tensioner went out at 64K causing valve damage and a $4000 repair bill, both ignition cassettes went out, headlights burn out every 2-3 months, too many minor repairs to fit here, transmission now shot and its a $5000 repair - enough!!! Will never buy a Saab or GM product again!

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  I wish Id chosen something different. - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By pythonfan6 - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I have had one problem after another. All build quality issues. Unlubricated steering column, rattles, a door hinge came loose causing a mean whistle in the door, panel lights flickering, other electrical issues. Aside from those, the cupholders are ridiculous. The one in the front armrest is unusable, and the one on the dash is to flimsy to put anything in but a can of coke. Acceleration is fine, but the car has no grip on any surface. The tires squeal at anything more than a soft touch to the peddle. All in all, I feel like I paid 40,000 dollars for a Hyundai.

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  GMs New Vega - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Charlie - April 4 - 1:43 am

  Towed countless times to shop or home (cant remove rust on wheels, dead direct inginition bank, failure to start, etc.). Interior falls apart around you (carpet disintegrating, rear brake light housing fell off). Blew shocks at 45K. Leaks antifreeze from unknown location at 17K. Trunk release, data display and seat heaters, inoperative since 50K

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  Stay Away Unless You Won the Lottery! - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By danducati - November 2 - 6:16 pm

  OMG, what a piece of junk. Bought with 40K miles on it and had the check engine light go on after about 3 months. Cost $2,100 to fix it. Nice. Then the grill flew off as I was driving down the highway. Then it began leaking antifreeze like a sieve. Another $400 fix. I have had enough and will never ever buy a Saab again! Traded that sucka in today for a Lexus and am now super happy.

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  nice options but not dependable - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By gloria - April 13 - 10:46 pm

  Its time to trade this car. This car has had four major repairs since we owned it. When the car is not having a problem it is enjoyable to drive.

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  Love/Hate Relationship! - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Nickolek - December 21 - 1:50 pm

  I am the the 2nd owner of this vehicle and have always had it regularly serviced. I love this car... When it runs, it runs well, when its doesnt, it really leaves you stuck! Financially and literally on the side of the road. I have tow truck drives on speed-dial. No joke. It all started with the timing belt and went down hill from there, oil sludge blew the engine, a bad ABS modulator that disables the ABS braking system. 2, yes 2 alternators, computer systems, crank sensor, alarm system, and LED display to name a few. My dashboard is a constant display of warning lights and the costs of my repairs are well over $6200. Well over what the car is worth now. I love this car, but it has broken me.

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  My family wants to like it, but.... - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By imissmysubie - September 29 - 10:00 am

  2.3 Linear Automatic, NYC We leased the car in late May. In mid- July it started gushing transmission fluid. Roadside assistance took 2 days to pick up the car. Sat on dealer lot for 5 days before someone looked at it. By that time, transmission fluid leaked into ignition system. Took another 2 days to fix. We were supposed to get a Saab as a loaner car; we got a Ford Focus instead. My parents (we share the payments) drove it to Atlanta. They averaged 66 mph and 32 mpg. Thumping noise started coming from Air conditioning. This morning, it began to leak transmission fluid again.

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  My Saab Story - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Freeway Willy - May 24 - 10:00 am

  By all reason, this should be the perfect alternative to an SUV. Great standard features, lots of room, very comfortable. However, when it comes to ride, quality and reliability this car dropped very quickly to the distinctive "worst car Ive ever owned". Car visits the shop very frequently. Dealer acknowledges the problems time and time again, but says they cant isolate them to fix them. It makes me crazy to drive this car. Cant get rid of it. Its value dropped off a clif just like its quality. Do yourself a favor. Dont be fooled by this pretty face. Run as fast as you can away from any urge to purchase a Saab.

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  GMs poor Engine Quality - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By eb - May 9 - 1:10 pm

  We bought this car pre-owned, had it inspected from a certified SAAB dealership and owning it for less than 2 years, we have spent over $3,000 on repairs. The quality of this car is lousy. Bought the car with 45,000 miles on it, and abruptly the warranty expires at 50,000 miles. Since I am a previous owner of an Infiniti, I was used to the warranty expiration at 60k. Immediately after warranty expires, our fuel pump fails, our alternator fails, engine coolant leak, and now we have a constant engine oil leak (header) which will cost more to repair than what the car is now worth. And due to the fact that Saab is an import, all parts are imported and marked up.

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  Brand Loyal No More - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By So long Saab - April 28 - 2:40 pm

  After three previous Saab purchases, the 1999 wagon will be my last. While I love the feel and look of the car, the repair record vs. the price point of the car has led me away from the Brand for any future purposes. All the following repairs occurred before 55,000 miles: 2 headlamps replaced along with the computer chip that controls high beams.2 water pumps - one at 37,000 miles and the other at 55,000 miles.Turbo Assist failure - the shaft of the turbo mechanism sheared off at 55,000 miles and had to replace the entire turbo unit ($1500). Countless light bulbs!