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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  DREAM COME TRUE - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By TEACH - March 30 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE JUST UNDER A THOUSAND MILES ON MY AERO. BUT HAVE OWNED IT FOR JUST 10 DAYS I HAVE TO SAY THAT THIS CAR IS TRULY AWESOME. I HAVE HAD A BMW 740IL (94), MERCEDES 190&300 BUT THE SPEED, HANDLING, AND COMFORT OF THIS CAR IS REMARKABLE. I HAVE NEVER DRIVEN A CAR SO FAST. IN SPORTS MODE THE AERO IS A FOUR DOOR PORSCHE. THE CAR FLYS, QUIETLY AND EFFORTLY.

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  Saab Aero - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By mikem25693 - March 18 - 10:00 am

  Evaluated the VW Passat W8 and BMW 325xi wagons extensively before finding the Saad 95 Aero Wagon. The Saab just blew the others away in terms of style, interior size, performance, expected reliability, and value. The Aero Academy performance driving school included with purchase is an incredible experience.

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  Excellent balance of family and sport - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By David - March 17 - 2:20 pm

  Since acquisition, the car has performed perfectly. Driving in city, on highway, and through mountains, and there is no appreciable difference in performance. Plenty of space for three kids in the back, and comfort over long distances for two kids in the front. Cockpit is extremely well balanced on driver side - everything is accessible (though the cruise control is more appropriate to an airliner than a car!). Dual temperature zones have driver and passenger happy. Auto/memory seating and mirror position saves time between driver changes. The car has more acceleration than it should as a wagon, and is an excellent balance between a family and sport vehicle. Its an outstanding value.

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  nigh on perfect - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By M Hesseling - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Lots of fun to drive: My 2.3 mile commute was fun in my previous car (2000 9-4 Convertible SE HOT), but this is even better. The occasional drive to Chicago is a thrill since there are lots of chances to surprise the odd sportscar driver. Thought Id use the sentronic paddle shifting more but the sport transmission probably does a better job at shifting than me (and this is my first automatic ever). Absolutely love this car.

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  sweet thing - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By toyboy12 - March 12 - 2:00 am

  This wagon is without a doubt, the best looking automobile on the road!!!!!!! It looks better than a M-Benz E-320 wagon or a BMW 540i wagon by a mile

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  perfect - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By cr92290 - March 12 - 2:00 am

  the saab 9-5 aero has got to be the best midsize sedan on the market toady. It has speed (150 mph) agility, and awsome looks. Best car I have ever perchased

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  Old Design, But Still Works - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By Derreck - March 8 - 12:53 pm

  Bought this vehicle used. Was a GMAC off lease vehicle with only 23,000 miles. Love that I dont see many on the road. I understand that this car is basically the same as it was 10 years ago, but it is fun to drive and feels very solid and still looks modern. Its too bad SAAB is in so much financial trouble. I believe had they priced their vehicles more in the VW range instead of the BMW range they would have sold in much greater numbers and turned a profit.

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  very impressive - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Jacques Talbot - March 5 - 10:00 am

  Excellent performance,and superb stability

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  Best Wagon Value - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By RMP - March 5 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I compared the Volvo V70 and Passat GLX to the Saab. The Saab was the clear winner. Exterior looks aside, this vehicle was by far the most bang for the buck. After the dealership took $7,000 off the sticker it was a no brainer. It even looks pretty good in midnight blue. Its sportier than the Volvo and more distinctive than the Passat. The interior is top notch.

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  I love my SAAB - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Thorsteinn7 - March 1 - 10:00 am

  I love my SAAB. This is my 5th SAAB in 20 years. It is fun to drive, in snow and summer. Steady on the road. Reliable. In the evenings I sometimes just stand by the window watching my SAAB.