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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  Engine Failure - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By SaabingStu - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car used with about 45K on the clock. Had for 3.5 years and put about 70K miles on it. Always ran synthetic oil, maintained the car very well, and the engine has failed at just 116K miles. Very disappointed, as I really enjoyed this car, and it was my second Aero, and now have a worthless car. I dont think Ill ever buy another one. also, very frustrating is the digital display always goes out on these things.

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  Love this car! - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By notasoccermom - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I bought my wagon to replace/upgrade from my Honda wagon. Absolutely love this car! I put on about 250 miles/week commuting, plus errands. Seats are extremely comfortable, ride is quiet, automatic turbo is quick off the light. Did have a problem with the turbo at 20K miles; dealership fixed it under warranty and didnt cost me a dime. Not good in snow, much to my surprise - have to get snow tires. Even so, my husband has a brand new SUV; I much prefer my car over his (except in the snow).

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  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.

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  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.

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  Fun to drive luxury car ! - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Marilyn - July 13 - 4:33 am

  The car has been an excellent family "sports" sedan. Dashboard layout, comfortable seats, large trunk, xenon headlights and 5-speed auto transmission w/ paddle shifters on the steering wheel are features that make this car very enjoyable. The standard Pirelli tires are not the quietest or best performing but adequate for most driving styles.

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  Most reliable - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By YEO - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Despite friends disbelief that I can buy a GM, I have found the car to be one of the most reliable that Ive owned (VW Jetta, Volvo 850, Subaru Legacy). Poor resale value means much better value for money on a used vehicle.

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  Great Car and Value - 2007 Saab 9-5
  By msimpson - June 27 - 3:56 am

  I went from a large SUV to the 2007 9-5 Aero Sport Wagon roughly four weeks ago. Great decision on my part. I thoroughly checked out all the so-called competition and I felt the Saab wagon 9-5 won hands down. The lower cost vehicles just didnt compare and the higher cost vehicles didnt have anywhere near enough added value in order to justify the substantial extra cost. One might say that all wheel drive is a must, but I find the front wheel drive is just fine and you benefit from added gas mileage as well. Im extremely pleased with the car overall. I dont live at the gas station anymore. Comfort is great and it handles like a sports car. The cargo area is bigger than anything in its class.

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  Outstanding Car!!! - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By SaabGuy - June 19 - 10:00 am

  This car is a dream to drive. Ive driven the I35, G35, 330, and the A4, and the 9-5 Aero blows them all away. The ride is smooth, yet the power is there when you need it! Id recommend everyone test drive one if youre considering a sport/luxury car.

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  Broke after buying a 9-5 - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By janie87 - June 17 - 9:07 am

  Just like many of these reviewers, I have owned a 9-5 and had to deal with a myriad of problems. I purchased the car in January 2013 and it ran well for about 6 months. Then the fuel pump exploded twice and the carborater needed replacing. And this was just the beginning.... $4000 later (over a period of 8 months), the car ran well for about 4 months, before the engine gave up and the mechanics couldnt determine the underlying issue.

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  Outstanding Vehicle - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By wfoote - June 6 - 2:00 am

  The 2002 model has a much better tuned suspension and is a pleasure to drive in all conditions. The gear shift is much improved over previous years. The HK stereo is also outstanding. We got the wood steering wheel and gear shift added and they look great.