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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  Saab 9-5 Wagon - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By dpalex - January 14 - 10:06 pm

  Bad wheel bearing, bad ignition module, bad ignition module 2, recalled ignition modules, poor / insufficient brakes, heater erratic, unreasonably expensive repairs, failing guide pulleys to timing belt, possible symptoms of failing turbo. Positively EATS tires with its weight.

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  2006 Saab 9-5 - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By flipper - January 7 - 10:50 pm

  I used to own 2 volvos, an 859 and a volvo v70 which died way before its time or so they say. I love my new saab. while not as well gadgeted inside, it is really sporty and fun to drive. Anyway the saab is fun to drive unlike any other wagon ive driven and is sporty looking too. I liked my car so much I bought a 9-3 convertible to go with it!

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  Never Again - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By MzKim - January 4 - 6:13 am

  I purchased this car used. It was pretty to look at and clean, however one month after driving off the lot I began to had problems & it never stopped: fuel pump, electrical, water pump, timing chain, AC system, sunroof, turbo and the list goes on. 4 yrs later I refuse to spend another penny. I through a piston rod and need a new motor. I am done.

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  Feel Safe -- Buy This Car - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By 1stTimeSaabOwner - January 3 - 10:00 am

  We wanted a crash-worthy vehicle for my wife to drive. The highways around here are packed with treacherous drivers. (Why didnt we get an SUV? Too big for my wife, a relatively inexperienced driver, and inconsistent with our philosophy and fuel economy wishes.) This is a perfect family car for us. Its pricey, but compared with other cars in its price class, it gives us what we need: safety, room, comfort. If you want a real performer, Im sure youll be happier with a BMW or Audi. You may read of turbo lag, and I can feel this especially in 2nd & 3rd gear.

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  Fun & Fast - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By David3d - December 29 - 10:00 am

  The Saab 9-5 Areo is a very fun car to own and drive. The car is flat out gorgeous to look at (midnight blue w/ tan interor) both inside and out. I still find myself admiring its styling. Driving is a blast, espeacially highway driving. The car has very good acceration on the freeway. The sport mode makes driving in tight rush hour traffic a blast. Quick acceleration to jump into gaps- it make the commute fun. The sound system rocks. But please dont buy one, I like having the only one, keep them rare. What is not to like? In my mind nothing.

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  Great Car from an New Company - 2011 Saab 9-5
  By gbytes - December 25 - 10:25 am

  I received my 2011 9-5 Laser Red Aero today. It is visually different from anything on the road and IMHO signals the beginning of a new era for Saab. I have been fortunate to own several high end Audi, BMW, and Mercedes automobiles. When shopping for a car this time I wanted something different from those (excellent) German vehicles. The 2011 9-5 is beautifully made and a very tasteful exercise in restraint. Having recently traded in my A8L it is nice to have a break from chrome and wood. The 9-5 feels very secure on the road and the 2.8L provides more than adequate performance. The pot holed B roads in New England do not break the cars composure even with the optional 19" wheels.

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  Awesome Car - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Dave - December 7 - 9:10 am

  I have owned a few BMWs and always thought they are the best cars on the road. This Saab compares - it rides just as well and is just as fast with much better gas mileage.

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  My 2nd Saab this year! - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Jay - November 29 - 9:46 pm

  I just moved up from a 9-3 SE to a 9-5 Aero. These are the first two Saabs Ive ever owned. The 9-3 met an untimely end but it wasnt the cars fault. So we looked around for a couple of weeks and found this gem. The ride is great, it is a little punchier than the 9-3, and these cars are actually roomy for a 66" guy to drive. Previous owner kept it flawless. Its eight years old with 53K on it.

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  Dont Do It - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By A Navarrete - November 28 - 6:00 am

  Great features for the money. They look great, are fun to drive and get good gas mileage but Ive chewed gum that was more dependable. Two Saabs and over $4,000 in repairs not including the warranty recalls. I thought maybe my first one was a lemon so I got another. I was wrong. They are all lemons.

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  2003 Saab 9-5 ARC 3.0 Turbo Review - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By tommie mac - November 21 - 11:03 pm

  Purchased this "demo" from dealer with about 8k on it. Car performs very well, handles very nicely. Powerful. Full of creature comforts such as heated front and rear seats, ventilated front seats. Seats are supportive yet comfortable. Air and heat are powerful and quick to get the cabin cool or warm. Brakes are awesome! Use only premium, get around 18 mpg mostly around town. Dont know why they stopped making this engine, its superb! Still look forward to driving it after owning it for 3+ years.