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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  2004 9-5 aero wagon - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Dan T - October 23 - 5:40 pm

  I was put-off by an older 9000 I owned before but was impressed the moment I got behind the wheel. Purchased this instead of a BMW wagon because of better interior space, much better mileage and impressive power.

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  Very SAFE Car! - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By SafeSAAB - October 6 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 9-5 used after trading in a BMW. A few weeks ago I was cut off by a moron and impacted the vehicle at over 45mph. Both airbags deployed. My child was in his carseat in the back. The accident as extremely violent and when I opened my eyes I expected serious injuries to all 4 passengers. The Saab held up very well despite being totalled. No one was seriously injured which is a testament to the superb design and solid construction of this car. I am getting another!

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  Cant wait to give it back! - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Washout - October 6 - 2:00 am

  When I 1st leased this car I thought Id grow to love it. Now I cant wait to turn it in. Initial build quality was not good. Panels popped up and burnt out bulbs. Handling was fine and the interior was comfy and well laid-out. In the 2 years Ive had it Ive had mysterious display problems, many more burnt out bulbs and incredibly crappy gas mileage. Exterior styling and finish is not aging well. It makes me glad my lease was only 3 years.Its VERY pokey off the line, with power only at freeway speeds. Extremely annoying.

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  The Aero Soars - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By hr_consultant - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my 02 Aero for 6 months and I have not had one problem with it. Ive not experienced any turbo lag at any speed, as a matter of fact, there is torque in every gear. Saab has included ESP (electronic Stability Program) that virtually eliminates torque steer. I have to be careful, Im generally way over the freeway speed by the time I shift into fourth! Unique look and feel, I always get lots of positive feedback when anyone asks about the car. After all that cool technical stuff, one of the things that gets the biggest reaction is when the cupholder opens, go figure.

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  It is not our problem! - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Debra M Fish - September 24 - 10:00 am

  Front toe setting was off from the beginning & the car pulled to the right. The dealer could only modify it slightly. By that point, the front tires were worn so badly they had to be replaced. The follow have had to be replaced:At least 6 key remotes, rear shocks, throttle body, digital display, ignition module.On a snowy day, the parking brake would not release & warning lights lite up. After sitting in the dealers heated garage all night, the car was fine. The hypothesis my service adviser had was that some part of the braking apparatus had frozen & needed to thaw. Saabs only response:As cars age, items simply have to be replaced.

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  first Saab - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Keith - Michigan - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Had not intent to buy a Saab. Took the 95 for a ride and that was it. Very impressed with the smoothness of the performance of the turbo. Would recommend one to anyone.

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  I Love my Saab 9-5 - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Saab forever - September 1 - 5:23 pm

  This is my first "nice" car and I love the performance, comfort, and gas mileage I get (consistently 27-28 MPG). The Turbo engine is something I cant live without. Im looking forward to it handling the snow this winter!!!

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  A Mixed Bag-Fun, Economical but Fragile - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By Mendelation - August 21 - 1:56 am

  Theres a lot to like in this car. Good combination of power and fuel economy. Lots of room in the interior and trunk. Unique car that you dont see everyday. However, the quality leaves much to be desired. The engine at idle send vibrations through the whole car and lots of interior pieces now vibrate. Lots of wind noise. Air bag problems, sun roof rattle problems, loss of coolant on trip, gas gauge failure. I worry about the long term durability of this car.

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  Sab Saab - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By scootsradley - August 18 - 4:32 am

  I bought this saab with 107k on it. This car is by far the worst car i have ever owned and ive owned a acura tsx, jeep, and chrysler crossfire. First week i bought the throttle body went bad and had to be replaced. A month later it was leaking oil, and i had to replace the crank seal. now 5 months later the car is leaking oil, the muffler is falling out from under the car, windsheild wiper motor went bad, car idles hard, and has no pick up what so ever. needs about 3k to fix. YEAH RIGHT! This car is an absolute piece of garbage never ever buy saab!

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  Good for a passionate car lover. - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By matt_beckman - August 6 - 5:59 pm

  After driving 3 Saabs, a 2005, 2006 9.3 Turbo, and a 2003 9.5 Aero It is clear that Saabs are cars to be pampered and taken well care of. If you are looking for a reliable car with as little maintenance as possible this is not the car for you. Your better of with a Toyota. You will get what you give with Saab and the car is good for someone who enjoys taking care of cars as a passion and DOES NOT mind putting in an extra dollar to keep their jem running at top quality. For about $4500 the 2003 Areo is about the best sports car you can get for the price and after regular maintenance you can expect quick acceleration, good gas mileage, and an all over all smooth, stylish, and luxurious ride.