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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  Best Saab yet - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By passat902 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  This is my 3d Saab, first 9-5. My black beauty, love at first sight. I get compliments on its appearance all the time. Whether on the turnpike or winding roads or in town, it never fails to delight. Its price is a bargain, compared to its competition.

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  The Rodney Dangerfield of Cars - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Paul Perry - March 21 - 10:00 am

  This car never seems to get any respect from reviewers. However, after pooring over the road and track reviews of this particular class of cars the Saab 9.5 aero was the best value. Saab had a $5,000 sticker writeoff incentive at the time. Saab builds some of the safest cars on the road today. This car is flat out the most enjoyable car to drive I have ever owned. The list includes Lexux, Volvo, and BMWs. The Aero with a stick makes you want to take the car for a drive out in the country just to exercise the car. On long trips the car is great because it has the most luggage space of any of the cars in its class. To nit pick, I would have to say the cup holder is not "elegant."

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  Third time is the charm - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By santasaab - March 7 - 10:00 am

  This is my third Saab and definitely the best. My other two, a 78 EMS and 84 900s both had their strengths but the 9-5 wagon has it all. This car offers an incredibly smooth ride. More low-end power than our 98 Maxima and features that are usually found only in cars at least $10,000 more than we paid. We also love the sporty styling and handling. My wife originally wanted and SUV but fell in love with the Saab during a test drive and has been happy ever since.

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  Beautiful balance in the Arc sedan - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Lon Sherer - February 22 - 10:30 pm

  Performance is extraordinarily balanced in this car. Handling, accelleration, and highway cruising are simply excellent. The icing on the cake--and never seems to be mentioned in professional reviews--is its mileage! Over 30 mpg 70+ I dont know of a viable competitor with that combination of virtues.

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  Its a Love - Hate Relationship - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By CommuterMobile - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Love this SAAB. The wife convinced me to buy it. After putting 200K on my 1992 900, I thought it was time to upgrade. I forgot how much the dealership charges for small repairs - and Maintenance. Thats where the hate comes in. They are really nice, and smile when they hand you the bill. Overall very satisfying experience - but the advertised loaner is never available.. for $37,000 your car should come with a trunk mounted scooter. The engine runs on air, everything from acceleration to braking is superb. Love the Stereo and climate controls. The Ride is awesome too. Hint - get winter wheels and tires - all seasons wont cut it.

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  great wagon - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By crbonfiber - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Great wagon. Not the same as all the toher cars on the road

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  Best Saab Yet! - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By My 3rd Saab - February 16 - 10:00 am

  This is my 3rd Saab, and the best by far. Build quality is superb. Not a single defect. And the body is stiffer and tracks better than my old 900 or my old 9-3. Plenty of power in the base model and it handles beautifully. The only thing I dont like is the dealer where I purchased. But then again, have you ever met a car salesman that you liked? I bought from 128 Saab for the price, I go to Charles River Saab for the service.

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  beware - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By meleele - February 11 - 10:00 am

  Saab has become very hostile to its customers on warranty issues. The rudeness extends to corporate level. My longtime Saab loyalty is OVER!

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  Well constructed - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By jop - February 7 - 10:00 am

  The construction is great... realibility great..fun to drive..great power..I am surprised not to see more 9- 5s on the road. I guess people are scared because it does not say BMW. You get real leather and not plastic. The 9-5 is a great car in the winter especially Canadian winters..

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  beat the crowd - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Bonday - February 3 - 2:56 am

  My wife and i have driven the car for the past 3 months and put 5k on the car. Having driven Volvos for the past 16 years, I found the Saab extremely satisfying with its no nonsense interior design, power and functionality. Having driven Maximas in past, this car is by far the most favarite so far. We hope that it lasts as long as. Prior to purchase, we also test drove extensively Volvo S80 and V70 turbo. Deciding on this Saab was a no brainer