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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  Second-hand Saab - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By famvanman - August 2 - 11:20 pm

  Recently bought this car with 56,000 miles. Although it is the Linear base model, it is a very nice machine overall; 4 cylinder economy with the turbo to add power when needed. Very solid feel on the road and good handling without harsh feedback from the pavement. Generous interior space and full size trunk. Many nice features, very good stereo and overall a unique feel to the car.

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  I Like It - Aeros Rule - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By saabzerphun - July 27 - 10:00 am

  This is my favorite Saab. It is modern, crammed with content, joyously quick, solid, well-thought-out, safe, quick, still under warranty, fun to drive, and did I mention it is quick? The new- Saab dealer seems to want to take very good care of me, but the local used- Saabs-only dealer is a better bargain. I get 21-32 MPG and can rip off 6.6 second dashes to 60 and under 16 seconds to 100. It feels very composed above 125. Despite the good things Ive heard about its reliability; Ill probably buy an extended warranty before the 50000 mile factory warranty exires; some of the parts for this car are a bit expensive and I want to keep it for a decade or so.

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  An outstanding Swede - 2008 Saab 9-5
  By Dan Sim - July 25 - 10:00 am

  I have had 17 Saabs of all variants since 1966. The Aero is the fastest safest and the most attractive of all. It has all the useful gadgets with out too much trendy clutter. audio is outstanding. The 235x17 tires, P6, are a bit noisy is a compromise for great performance. I am happy to get the final version of the 9000-95 evolution.I have had 2 of each. The orig. 86 9000T, a 91 9000T, a 01 95t Arc and now the 98 Aero. The 2.3 turbo remains a great motor, better than most 50% above its size. The Aero joins my 07 93, 74 Sonnett,73 96 v-4 and 68 96 v-4 in the driveway.

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  Fun, Fast, Safe, Practical - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By MarkJump - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Complete confidence in all driving situations using excellent power, brakes, stability or agility. Have owned this 1999 model for five years--deeply satisified. Post-warranty problems: CD player, throttle body, warped disc rotors. Totally satisfied with home dealers (Deel Saab, Miami & Secor Saab, New London, CT) and also others used away from home. Versatile, thoughtfully designed to the smallest detail, wears well. Ill hope to get another when the new model come sout; looking next for an Aero (more of a good thing)!

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  Took a long time to buy one - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By arline grady - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I am in the market to buy another Saab probably will look at the BMW, Mercedes and a Jag but I know in my heart it will be a another Saab I change every two or 3 years. This will be my 4th. Have had all the others above, but the ride, comfort and dependability in a Saab is the best. I now have a 2001

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  Great car - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Scott - July 21 - 1:13 am

  My first Saab and will (hopefully) not be my last. I have a lower back issue and do not ride in cars very well. However, I can ride long distances in this car in relative comfort. Kick the sport in and it goes!

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  Beautiful and Unique - 2011 Saab 9-5
  By bradmad - July 12 - 7:39 pm

  I have had this car now for 3 weeks and so far it has been a pleasure to drive. I havent see any others on the road, so its nice to drive something unique. Handling is responsive, power is adequate and the interior is both comfortable and stylish. Gas mileage is better than rated as well. Im averaging about 21 in town and have gotten 31 on a recent highway trip of about 100 miles.

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  Top Notch for the Aero - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By malapides - July 9 - 10:13 am

  This vehicle has provided a range of diversity with regards to comfort, performance, efficiency and practicality. I regularly take road trips with bikes on the roof, or gear in the wagon area along with friends. The car gets me there quickly with its powerful turbo engine (I do have the 5-speed), in comfort (the ventilated seats are a must in hot weather) and efficiently (frequently 30-32 mpg highway). I highly encourage anyone buying this car who lives in a snow belt to absolutely buy a second set of wheels/tires for the snow. This makes a huge difference. Overall, I could not be happier with thie vehicle. With 75,000 miles on it, there have been no significant repairs.

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  Jack of all trades... - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Stan18 - July 5 - 9:13 pm

  Safe, fast, reliable, high utility (big trunk and enough interior space for 4 adults). Handles nice. Great gas mileage. Outstanding car for the real world. Ignore the critics (they dont live in the real world, and they dont like FWD.). I just re-leased my 3rd one (never owned a Saab prior to my first 9-5)... need I say more?At the prices you can negotiate (way below MSRP), they offfer great value.

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  Aero Go - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Spencer27 - July 4 - 10:00 am

  The Aero is a "Beast" to say the least, I looked at the BMW 5 Series, Cadillac CTS and CTS-V, Accura TL, and they did not stack up. Saab Aero is in a class alone when considering value to dollar ROI. Handling is clean and crisp, fuel ecomony is running nearly 24 MPG (highway/city). 17" rims are very nice. Overall impression is, "where has Saab been?" We know Saab is owned by GM, but this group is a sleeper. Dont get it confused, sleep on the Saab and you are likely to get snake bitten!