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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  Like the car very much but... - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By kb - July 2 - 5:06 am

  Second SAAB purchased. First a 1995 900s. I like it so much I thought I will buy another. The 1999 95 is a sweet machine!!! Fast, comfortable, safe, quiet with a lot of storage and it looks good sitting in the garage which is usually where it is cause it hardly ever runs. Before 100,000 miles 2 turbos, water pump, alternator, crank sensor, battery, engine temp sensor, transmission safety switch. Check engine goes on and off so does transmission light. Nobody knows why. I researched web taken to repair centers. I am a certified mechanic. It is stuck out front of the house useless as usual. Spent over $3000 in last 20,000mi and still broke again.

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  I love it... - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By lumberr - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I looked at both the 530 BMW and the 3.2tl S-Type Acura.....there is NO COMPARISON. Ive never owned a SAAB before, but can see why it has a cult following!!!

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  Still Great after 3,000 miles - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By dpbeach - June 20 - 10:00 am

  Very pleased with performance and comfort. Only problem has been sluggish starts when engine is cold. Havent had time to take it back to dealer to check on this problem.

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  Value - 2007 Saab 9-5
  By cedric long - June 5 - 8:23 am

  This is my 3rd Saab 9-5 and they continue to impress with strong performance, very reliable, and excellent fuel mileage. Seats are extremely supportive and build quality has been very good. Its always interesting when you read the automotive reviews the Saab 9-5 is rated significantly below the competition. But when you drive the car it proves to be quite comfortable and with 260 HP certainly competitive with todays competition. The turbo is a completely different driving experience and makes the vehicle fun to drive. Fuel mileage at 22 mpg around town and 32+ on the highways makes the 4 cylinder an excellent choice with todays high cost of fuel.

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  My 5th Saab Is A Real Winner - 2008 Saab 9-5
  By John - May 31 - 11:36 pm

  After owning four Saab 900 through 9-3 convertibles, I thought (actually my kids thought) it was time for a change. Something about no rear legroom. My new 9-5 is a gem and as rare as can be equipped with a smooth shifting five speed manual transmission. Its the perfect combination with the powerful 2.3L turbo. I love to drive this vehicle! I test drove a BMW 5 series and was very unhappy with the feel of the manual transmission and the amount of room inside. For the price I paid, I could not have done better. I smile every time I open the door. If you are looking at a near luxury vehicle - do yourself a favor and test drive the Saab 9-5 sedan or wagon.

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  Saab 9-5 Combi - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By SaabGuy - May 19 - 10:23 pm

  I love this car. It is unique in all respects. The fit and finish equals or exceeds other premium German or Japanese cars. Its safe, economical and contemporary.

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  BG SAABer "mainichka" - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By Uri Papouktchiev - May 14 - 10:00 am

  To all who hesitate whether to get SAAB or other European premium car: I bought the car on 58000milles. An year later I am at 95000milles. On the highway am getting easily 33- 35milles/gal. Changed the air filter with K&N and increased the basic pressure from 4psi to 12psi. Now I am having 210+ hp and the car is simply amazing. I was involved in single car accident once and survived with minor damages. The car very reliable and very stable on the road. In US these car are easy to find below TMV. Do not hesitate to get one when is 2-3year old.

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  2000 Saab - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Saab Lover - May 14 - 10:00 am

  MY wife has fallen in love with this car. It seems to be the perfect balance between size, mileage and luxury.

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  Super Car - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By George Swatman - May 9 - 10:00 am

  There has not been one repair,even a small one, required on this car. The manual transmission is extremely smooth. Plenty of power is always there at any speed. This is lots of space in the interior, much more than in competition, eg BMW 500 or Audi A6. The large Saab has been probably the safest real world car over the years.

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  Wagon? yes, but its a sports car, too - 2007 Saab 9-5
  By annm - April 23 - 12:36 am

  Could not love driving a car more than this! The manual transmission is fun to drive. The Aero is agile & responsive. While there are cars on the highway that are attractive style-wise, I bought the Aero wagon because I wanted a manual. Not too many manuals out there in cars this size. And not too many wagons.