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:

• 

  Beats SUV Hands Down - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By goblue - September 14 - 2:00 am

  Having come from Arizona to Michigan, Ive been driving SUVs for winter roads since I got here 10 years ago. I decided it was time for a change and researched the market. The Saab wagon was the best looking, most fun to drive, safest and still offered enough interior room to displace the SUV. To my surprise, it also went through the winter weather with ease. I wasnt surprised when I learned the Aspen police all drive Saabs.

• 

  Love it! - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By iwtbl - September 12 - 10:00 am

  I made myself a Xmas present last year and bought the 9-5 SE V6t. After driving Audi A6 & BMW 5-series, I have to say that Saab has surprised me with the build quality and the overall performance. It has got to be the most comfortable ride of all. Most importantly though, I havent had ANY problems with maintenance. It runs super-smooth and I wouldnt change anything about it.

• 

  Big Sporty European Cruiser - 2011 Saab 9-5
  By sambub - September 11 - 5:28 am

  My black 9-5 with the Turbo4 premium 18" wheels is just beautiful. Much better looking than the A6 or the new 5 series. And, unlike the A6, 9-5 can be had with a 6 speed manual. Its a big, rock-solid car with lots of sport: firm suspension, good steering. It drives much smaller than it is. On the highway the car is buttoned down and whisper quiet. Saab offers a factory authorized power upgrade that brings torque to 300 ft/lbs. Also, car has tons of tech in cabin and engine has the fancy upgrades: direct injection and twin scroll turbo, so 33 mpg HWY so far. Needless to say I am extremely happy!

• 

  9-5 Aero - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By bacdoc - September 8 - 8:16 am

  Traded in my 2000 A6 after a year of staring at the check engine light. I previously owned a 2001 9-5 v6 which I enjoyed, I like this a lot more. Overall best bang for the buck, fast, comfortable, nice ride, and good gas mileage. I recently took it on a 2000 mi trip, at 70-75 mph I averaged 32.5 mpg!! I always look foward to driving this car.

• 

  Mylst car was a BM wthout the W - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Tooth Dr - September 6 - 2:00 am

  After suffering with a 5 series BMw fo what seemed like a lifetime I can tell you stop and tst drive a 9-5. I leased mine and it has been so much fun I am sick I didnt do this sooner. As far as fun this car flies and shifts smooth as silk. The radio Harmon Kardon sounds incredible. I have the touring package, and I reccomend this for anyone with two eyes who drives at night. ot only does the rear view dim but so dothe side mirrors. Should be standard on all cars. . Imust say though Ihave only jut got the car ths month so ifthings change I will update this review. Ohand the paddle shifters on the triptronic trany is a blast.

• 

  Very Quick 4 banger - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Greyaero - August 31 - 2:00 am

  This Aero 5 speed can run with the best of them. Can easily get 30 mpg on road trips. Different that the run of the mill sport sedan. The safety features are excellent, sa good as they get.

• 

  Excellent car - 2008 Saab 9-5
  By smb - August 22 - 10:50 am

  This is a great car I got one with 5 spd manual and it is a blast to drive. Aero package is awesome while twisting and turning at speeds. Turbo is great, turbo lug almost non-existent. It is the best value for a station wagon under 40K.

• 

  A lot of car for the money - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Believer - August 21 - 5:40 pm

  I bought our Linear Wagon Saab CPOed from a local dealer with low mileage and warranty remaining. I have been very impressed by the fuel economy (30- 34 mpg) and reliability. Immensely more reliable to the Audis and Bimmers owned in the past.

• 

  Awesome, Unique, Fast - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Morten - August 7 - 10:00 am

  I had this car for 3 months now and I am very, very happy. It is fast and people notice it because it is unique. The transmission is smooth and interior is very cool.

• 

  Great high mileage car - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Randy - July 26 - 7:40 am

  Purchased new and 40k miles per year average. 28-ish MPG highway (I drive fast). Ive had no repairs except something in front suspension. Have followed Saabs maintenance schedule. Still runs like new. Aero with manual tranny.