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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  2nd time 9-5 Buyer - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Kevin Ztrem - May 4 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased my second Saab 9-5. This is a great car. I have ordered with the 5 speed manual transmisison. Its fun to drive. I always take the long route. There is more then enough power and the gas mileage is great. The cars are very reliable and Saab is a very customer friendy company. I recomend this car to anyone.

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  Fabulous Aero - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By dcarmstrong - April 29 - 1:50 pm

  This 9-5 was our 7th Saab. We upgraded to this and have loved it from day ONE. The ventilated seats for the summer cooling are a great asset and my husband absolutely loves them.

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  Turbo 4 cyl, love it! - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Italianpony09 - April 21 - 12:40 pm

  Bought this car to replace my 90 F-150 as a daily driver. Good mpg considering the performance and size of the car. First day my serpentine belt slipped off, dealer had head gasket replaced from before I purchased it and missed that the crank seal was leaking oil too. Alarm batteries are going dead, pulled the fuse to prevent it from going off erratically. A few common problems for 9-5s, but to be expected for a 9 yr old car. Overall I am very pleased with the 9-5, cant wait to be able to purchase a new one. Hope that GM is able to sell Saab back to a Swedish company and not drop the brand altogether, I would be very sad. Its a pretty smart car for a 2001! Gotta love the swedes!

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  i love my car! - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By jardin107 - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I love my saab! It has surprising oomph and handles so much more responsively than my 2 previous SUVs, I cannot imagine ever owning one again. The trunk is roomy, the sound system terrific, and my bottom doesnt stay frozen for long in the mornings! I am not a "car fanatic" but I must say, I have never been so pleased with an automobile in my life. Thank you Saab.

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  02 Aero wagon is top notch - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By dcaero - March 22 - 10:00 am

  This is an overall great car. After a BMW 5-series wagon -- much costlier -- and this is a worthy contender. Dont pass up the 9-5 -- it remains a very competitive platform.

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  Rip roarin fun - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Mike - March 21 - 4:43 am

  Its great to see peoples startled expression when theyre in the passenger seat and you step on it! I did the all aluminum exhaust upgrade (lifetime warranty and 8 more bhp). Mileage has been a pleasant surprise, but hey, its a 4 cyl after all. Big car comfort, small car fun and all Ive done after 66 months was replace the battery, finally. I had never owned a Saab before, and relatively speaking I think they are somewhat pricey as new, but they prove to be worth it!

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  More for Less? - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By B.M.F. - March 20 - 10:00 am

  The 03 Aero has proven to be a wonderful car. Its nimble, powerful, comfortable & quiet. The new steering wheel shifting is a nice touch, & the new 5-spd auto always keeps the car in the boost. The Bi- Xenon headlamps are better than all of the Japanese Xenons (better than the Acuras and Lexus GS in particular), & most of the Germans(Mercedes and Audi & BMW)that still use a halogen high beam (Come on guys step up to the plate, youre being left behind!). A world class sedan for not a lot of dough!

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  stealth-mobile - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By nick lawrence - March 13 - 2:00 am

  I actually started out getting a volvo but ended with my saab 9-5--a very safe, very quick, and very high quality and thoughtfully designed car that I anticipate will remain functional and satisfying for years to come. Its a comfy riding luxury car without being a ponderous barge or calling undue attention to oneself as with a BMW or Mercedes. sort of a stealth premium ride.

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  Great car to drive and own - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Love Saab - February 24 - 10:00 am

  Car has almost 52,000 miles. Bought it when it had 15,000 miles. Rental company had used it first. No major problems. Good lumbar support, heated seats. I can leave everyone else at the light. Got 35 mph on cruise control. Handles well. Fun to drive.

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  Saab AERO price point is tops - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By jimmy22 - February 24 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven this car for the summer ow and am still in "like". I couldnt affortd the BMW 5 wagon and the 3 series was too small and cost the same. I truly have to agree that this car much like the Audi A6 is more a high way car rather than a stop light to stop light stormer, but thats where I drive most. If I was living in a major urban center Id take a taxi .