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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  Bank Vault - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By hr - June 29 - 1:33 pm

  I feel safe in my Saab. The 9-5 has rated tops in safety in the real world since intro. I dont know what they mean when they say turbo lag. I remove foot from brake, nail it, the tires chirp and traction control kicks in. How does a 3600 lb 4 cyl automatic do that with turbo lag? 0-60 in under 7! Very comfortable to drive.

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  9-5 Aero - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By 95Aerodriver - June 23 - 7:56 am

  The car is amazing, it performs very well, however I have had multiple problems with it, including headlamp failures, wiper failures, as well as several problems with the rear suspension among other small problems. Despite having difficulties with the vehicle, I continue to enjoy it.

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  Its still a Saab! - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By hr - June 20 - 6:43 pm

  There is one thing that reviews consistently fail to mention about the SAAB driving experience; it feels SAFE! Ive owned Mercedes, BMW, and VW and only my early 90s S class Mercedes gave me the same feeling. Even the electric door locks have a reassuring thunk that makes me think of a deadbolt engaging dorr jamb. I often see mention of turbo lag. Please explain how a 2.3 liter 4 cyl automatic in a 3600 lb car can chirp the tires on full throttle takeoff if there is turbo lag. I take my foot off the brake, nail it, it chirps and the traction control kicks in. If there is lag its in milliseconds. I dont need 6 cylinders and I am getting 23 mpg around town.

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  Dream car! - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By blackadder - June 19 - 2:00 am

  This is the car! Black with sand-beige seats - just BEAUTIFULl!! Had a 2001 9-5SE before this....the HOT Turbo makes all the difference in the world delivering phenom acceleration. Whatever you do, test drive on the highway in sport mode (watch out for the cops and speed traps!!).

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  Allright tourer - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Colonel - June 19 - 2:00 am

  Not a true sports sedan since it does have a little handling issues, overall and excellant avordable vehicle when compared to the BMW/Audi(volkswagens) of the world

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  Saab Aero - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By DaDrain - June 17 - 2:00 am

  This car glides! Goes 60 to 100 in a blink and you feel like you cruising at 40 on a newly paved road. Impressive acceleration and handling. I had an Acura TL-s which was a nice car and fast as hell, but the ride was subpar. Traded it in for the Saab and now know what it means to drive a true car. The downside? The car doesnt come with a CD changer. The Acura comes with an in dash 6 CD changer. So does the Lincoln LS. Also, if you do plan on playing CDs the storage space for the jewel cases are pathetic. Saab needs to address the CD changer, storage space, and add automatic-up window controls. Maybe Im just picky. I know, shut and drive!

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  Saab 9-5 Aero - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By Chris - June 15 - 1:40 am

  I originally was planning on leasing a new 9-3 Aero due to a mostly satisfying experience with a 2003 9-3 Linear Sedan; however, I chose the 9-5 Aero because of its redesigned exterior and superior test-drive performance. Theres a nice balance of comfort, handling and performance with the 9-5. The marriage of the car to the 2.3 L engine provides ample power with nice fuel economy. Ive been very impressed with the interior comfort and design. Gauges are straight-forward. HVAC controls are simple, Leather, ventilated bucket seats are comfortable and pratical for hot temp climates.

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  My 26th Saab - - 2002 9-5 Aero - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By SaabOwnerEd - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I have owned 27 Saabs and with 5 on hand. The 2002 9-5 Aero is the best that I have owned. Compared to competing models from Volvo, Audi, BMW, ... price is a deal. Key is to find a dealer that you can trust for service because Saab’s are not inexpensive to maintain. Saab has no sense of customer loyalty. I get the same $500 Customer Loyalty rebate as a one Saab owner. Saab is arrogant and only thinking about the next sale - - no regard for the existing customer.

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  Amazing Wagon - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By NJ SAAB - June 6 - 10:00 am

  OK, I fell for the tag line- I test drove a SAAB and bought a SAAB- no prior experience with the brand.After a few weeks my conclusion is it is an amazing automobile. Everything you could ask for and a lot you didnt know you needed! The car is a blast to drive, has more interior room than most car like SUVs (except for cargo height). Best of all you dont see one at every light-Test drive it and judge for yourself!

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  love my saab(s) - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By relixwjm - June 5 - 2:20 am

  awesome car...had this aero for years. if you maintain them, they go forever. over 200k on this one and going strong. great design (not for everyone), after all its a saab (saab people get it)...fast car with great gas milegae, too