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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  New to Saab - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By GeeWhiz - February 28 - 10:10 pm

  I first drove a Saab 9-3 Aero , but it was sold, so I drove this 9-5 Arc. The 9-5 Arc is more of a touring car and is larger and less sporty than the 9-3 Aero. The ride is much smoother than the 9-3 Aero and the Interior is better designed. I love this car - power on demand with the 2.3 L turbo and great gas mileage as long as you get out of city driving conditions. Only owned a short time, but all the research seems to suggest that routine maintenance is key and Synthetic Oil changes every 4-5K miles is a must.

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  I enjoy my driving - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By r34 - February 24 - 10:00 am

  My 01 9-3 was hit by a big truck on a highway. My wife was driving it and walked out ok. We decided to trade a little bit of reliability (not buying a Japanese car) with driving pleasure (buying an European car). We decided to get a certified Saab (you need it). The dealer didnt do the certification very well and we had to get them fix certain minor things. Overall the car is more responsive than my 9-3 and the interior is much better. It is more like a luxury sedan than the 9-3. We want to be there all the time, even sitting in the car doing nothing Now we cannot "escape" from Saab.

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  Great Car but requires lots of repairs - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By jdowen - February 15 - 3:50 pm

  It is a very comfortable vehicle that is fun to drive. It is a quiet drive and handles very well. I really enjoy the car when it works correctly. However, it is a very unreliable car. I was stranded on the side of the road twice - at 60K miles and 65K miles in 2003 (only 2 year old vehicle), both times it was a failed Ignition Cassette causing the Catalytic Converter to melt (very expensive parts). It is a common problem, the NHTSA Office of Defects is investigating the problem. If you are looking to purchase one of these vehicles, please search Google for "Saab DI Cassette failure" for more information about this common problem and consider this when making your decision.

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  Go with the AERO!! - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Slugworth - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I got the Aero with all options for a great price and the dealer actually made the dreaded experience enjoyable! I chose this over the 325, 525, i300, G35 and CTS. I actually started looking at the 9-3s, but wanted a bit more space and loved the metal trim in the Aero.

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  Swedish Aspirations - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Eric FitzGerald - February 11 - 7:10 am

  This car was an absolute steal at only $33k. Thanks to the employee pricing I got a top of the line 9-5 Aero for the price of a 9-3 Arc w/options or a 9-3 Aero w/ no options. The car is fast and people do look at it because it does look so good. Sure the handling isnt as precise as a BMWs or its not a luxurious as other cars in this price class, but when compared to other $33k cars, there is no contest! Ive always loved Saabs and having to tame the torque steer, lifting the ring to throw it in reverse and seeing the corner and reverse lights light up at the front corners. Its unique, its fast, it sounds amazing and I love the turbo whisltes that accompany my commute every day.

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  Sold on saab - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By dave strasser - February 6 - 9:03 pm

  1st experience driving a Saab. Fun to drive, gets up and goes with great handling, comfortable driving, very reliable, Saab design lives up to its crash testing superiority as a safe car. Wife just got in a 50mph head on, everyone ok. Im buying another without hesitation!!Great car.

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  My Aero - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Peter - February 6 - 4:43 am

  I have owned this Saab 9-5 Aero for three years and it has been working without any troubles. Its a dream around town and on the highway. It is 5 speed.

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  SAAB Rocks - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By Rick Rock - January 27 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned four other SAAB models and they just keep getting better. The General (GM) is adding some nice touches and improvements - better climate control system, braking, quiet interior. Superb Harmon Kardon sound system, sport car handling, room, comfort and nearly 30 mpg! The best Saab model to date.

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  saab 9-5 - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By john sise - January 22 - 2:00 am

  Good handling, great ride, comfortable seating, adequate luggage space - would be better if they still offered a hatch. Power seems slightly better than my 2000 9-3 SE, which isnt bad, but it should have more to make it superior to others in its class. Also should come with sportier tires and wheels to improve the handling even more.

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  loving this car (again) - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By thorgan - January 21 - 10:00 am

  Went from a 99 9-5 to a 01 9-5 Aero when the first lease was up. We really liked the first car, but found that there were times when we could use more power (e.g. when attempting to merge into Boston traffic). The Aero has that power, and more. It rides incredibly well, is very comfortable, and (knock wood) weve not had any problems at all with it. We now have about 10K miles on it. We found with our first car that the 9-5 actually drives better the more miles it gets on it. That seems to be true with the new car as well. At 10K it seems to be just getting broken in.