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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  Pleased with Saab 9-5 Aero wagon - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By wendieb04 - June 3 - 8:53 am

  The car has been very comfortable and fun to drive. This is the most horse power I have had, felt I had power to maneuver when needed in traffic. Gas economy is good for size of car it is. When I have had passengers with me they have always commented what a nice ride they are having. I agree that back seat is just about as comfortable as the front and plenty of leg room. I think you get a great value for the money. Have had 2 minor recall issues I have had to get fixed. One complaint is that covered maintenance is only at 5k, 15k, 30k and 45k. Oil changes between every 5k are not covered.

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  The car that makes me happy - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Dan Munteanu - May 18 - 2:10 am

  Saab 9-5 Aero is a car that does everything very well that youd expect from a near luxury vehicle. On top of it, the extra oomph can be effortlessly delivered by just pressing the gas pedal harder. The manual transmission might be a little tricky to master for some at first, but I was able to read it right away and I still enjoy using it. If theyre brand new they may be a tad expensive but it makes a great slightly used car at a great price.

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  Best Kept Secret - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By JaeNoh - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Its great that I get to buy a car like the 9-5 for $35,000 while suckers will pay $50,000 for a BMW 530 and get so much less of everthing else.

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  Taking flight - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Bruce - April 29 - 4:36 pm

  The car has completely lived up to my expectations and the few small bugs I dealt with in my 2000 base model 9-5 were completely absent in this model. The engine is very strong and the handling is very good and often suprisingly so. The bonus set of skills gained at the Aero Academy really pointed out the remarkable breaking and handling capabilities of this car. Kudos all around for the remarkable comfort. The ventilated seats are an additional treat here in Southern California summers.

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  Best Car Ive Owned - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By Tim Erskine - April 27 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned my Saab 9-5 SE 2.3 for five years, and Im still waiting for it to show some signs of wear. It still drives like the day I bought it. This is the best used car value on the market by far. This is a large, roomy sedan, and I get 30mpg on the highway cruising at 90mph. The car pulls strongly through 100mph (top speed is over 140) and is rock solid at that speed. It has incredibly comfortable seats and the best stereo in any car in this class.

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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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  Very Good Car, Great Deal! - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By SAAB MAN - April 17 - 1:33 am

  I have owned my 95 Linear since 2002 and have driven on the German autobahn and I can tell you that it will do every bit of the 160 mph on the dash and it does it smoothly. Some say that the turbo is not quick enough well for me, it is plenty quick. I know because the aggressive driving on german road. The ride is very smooth. The gas mileage is great and I am sure it would get better if I slowed down.

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  wow, a piece of dirt - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Stephanie - April 16 - 7:30 am

  Ive had my Saab for one year, and I am already replacing the transmission. This is not the first thing that has gone wrong. I have also experienced the headlights going out multiple times, hub bearing replacement, among other things. DO NOT buy this Saab. It is a piece of dirt.

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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!