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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  EXCEPTIONAL CAR - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By zax9-5 - April 17 - 2:00 am

  The longer I have the car the more I love it. The car is extremely solid and does everything well. Very powerful, love the turbo sound. Gets great gas mileage, I get between 22-25 on average. The 9-5 is a complete tank in the snow, very sure footed. This is the first vehicle I feel safe in. After visiting a salvage yard and seeing wrecked SAABs, I know the car will protect me almost better than anything on the market. Some 9-5s have had problems, mine however has been absolutely problem free for over 28,000 miles. Coming from a person who keeps cars for 2 years or less, I hope to have this one for at least 200,000 miles. Good warranty.

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  Used to own 735il - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Saabsatisfied - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Picked up the car at 7:00 p.m. and the next three days drove 3 executives around So CA racking up 800 miles. The car handled perfectly and aside from missing the extra rear leg room in the 735il, I was perfectly satisfied. No rattles, and the handling was great. I looked at 540, e320, Lexus, etc, etc,... and once I drove the SAAB I was hooked. After owning for 2 weeks, I have no regrets.

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  Finally, a car worth the price..... - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By mac750 - April 12 - 2:00 am

  Got the Aero with all options. I finally can say this is the most fun car to drive and I feel like a kid again. The attention to detail and European styling are superb. Luxury and fun in the same package...who would have thought!

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  Whose a Snaab - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Intermedx - April 12 - 2:00 am

  While I generally like my Saab and believe there have been significant improvements in performance and reliability, there stiil seems to be a lack of attention to the uality of the little things. FOr example, headlights routinely burn out. I know this is not just my car as I have seen several other 9-5s with the one-eyed stare. Additionally, the plastic covers for the rear center tail light and the overhead light both broke over the course of three years. The car is extremely confortable and in the Sport mode is a total kick to drive. The key to happy sport driving is to keep the revs up a little to avoid the classic Saab turbo lag.

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  Great Used Value - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By hal9000 - April 8 - 1:43 am

  I think 04-05 Saab 9-5s are one of the best kept secrets on the used market.The resale value of GM era Saabs stinks. Bad if you want to buy a used one and sell it in two years. Great if you want a terrific content filled bargain you can drive for years. All the early bugs have been worked out. You get a vehicle that ranks tops in safety. Speed if you want it. Fuel efficiency if you want it. Plenty of passenger and cargo room. Very smooth ride(even with my Aero suspension). I also prefer the body style of the 04-05 vs. the 06. Dont be scared of the Saab stories you here from people. Most are probably from 9-3 owners and those are a very different vehicle than the 9-5.

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  Fun to drive - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Dan Schilling - April 8 - 1:36 am

  This is a great car! Plenty of power and it sips gas. The rear seat is one of only a few cars that has a comfortable seating position. What more could you want from a sport sedan.

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  Had to buy it! - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By drlgu - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Since Saab was running 0% financing, I figured I would check it out. My friends have had Saabs and loved them, so I figured a test drive would not hurt. The dealer only had one Aero 03 on the show room, but there was a left over 02 that they had not sold. The car looks great and really stands out in the sea of Bimmers, Benzs, and Audis. I was plesantly surprised by the acceleration, handling and interior room. Needless to say, I got a deal that I could not refuse. Great combination of sports car and luxury cruiser!

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  This is a superb vehicle! - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By BFLdesign1 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Love this car for comfort, for safety, getting 28 mpg on long trips, typically 22 mpg around town. Lots of space.

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  SAABA - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By FRANK BAKER - March 19 - 2:00 am

  BEST VEHICLE FOR FAMILY. WE BOUGHT FOR WIFE BUT I DRIVE MORE THAN SHE DOES. VERY QUICK AND HANDLES WELL. IM 6-2" A LITTLE DIFFICULT GETTING IN BUT ONCE IN VERY COMFORTABLE. TURBO REPLACED AT 40,000-WARRANTY COVERED. I USUALLY DRIVE GMC TRUCK 2500HD.

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  Love it! - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By dlflyboy - March 19 - 1:03 am

  I actually have a 2003 9-5 Aero. I have put between 16000-17000 miles on it. I bought it new in May of 2003. I havent had any problems with it other than taking it into dealer for service to have a flood light (light bulb went out) in the door replaced. I have a manual. And since I do more driving in the city I wish I had gotten the auto.