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 Story - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By jon_e_quest - August 28 - 4:16 am

  This is my 7th Saab, 2nd 9-5. It will be my LAST! Bought with 37K miles. Replaced the Turbo, ACC control module, trip computer, & entire dash facia at 46K (all warrantied). Now with 68K miles, have a short in the no. 8 fuse circuit that nobody can find. Unless I drive with that fuse out, battery dies. Intermittent engine light due to a faulty coil pack (possibly under recall, but I had to purchase one for my last 9-5.). Intermittent oil light (replaced the sending unit, but now it looks like a $1K oil pump replacement). Replaced the left side ACC air dist. stepping motor which controls temp adjust. Replaced both fog lights. Needs left side ball joint. Sunroof rattles. I give up!

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  First Car & $4,500 Loss - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By eurodrive25 - August 21 - 4:46 am

  I bought my 1999 9-5 as my first car from a sleazy car dealer with 132k miles. It looked great and was unique. I loved it at first. First week I had to replace the emission tubes. About 2 weeks later as I was getting dressed for work it died in the driveway. I rolled into the street, blocking traffic and looked like an idiot pushing my car back into my driveway. I ran a stop sign because it stalled and luckily avoided a collision. It cost me tons to fix fuel pump, spark plugs, and carburetor. Weeks after that the timing belt broke on my way to work. On the busiest street possible of course. About $3000 to fix. Sold it for $800. Had it for 4 months, made 3 payments. Lost 4k. Own a 9-3 now.

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  Mixed Feelings - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By AMB - August 18 - 4:03 am

  I bought this car used about 2 years ago with 88,000 miles on it. (My dad purchased a 2000 9-5 aero a few months earlier and I loved his so much I wanted one). Its a fun car to drive, love the sports drive option, and has good overall handling (except in the snow!) Mechanically...I always feel like Im replacing something! The turbo has gone once already, air filters, struts, brakes, and the oil needs to be changed constantly or the check engine light comes on. The pixels in the dash computer keep going as well and it always reads tail light out even though its not. My dad has had similar issues with the dash computer and it is expensive to fix. This is a car I hate to love!

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  No Resale Value - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By TheRonTonDon - August 14 - 4:40 pm

  DO NOT buy this car on the used market. Bought mine CPO in 2006 for $19k. Owned it for 2.5 years, still owe $11k on this. Heard from dealer that they are going for $4k at auction. So Im in the hole $7k. Car is not worth it. Yeah its quick, gets good gas mileage, and is fun to drive, but thats about it. Reliability is crap. Eats through tires and is in the shop at least 2 times a year. Go with a BMW, youll be much happier.

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  Well balanced and fun - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Mike - August 8 - 7:06 pm

  The 9-5 continues the SAAB tradition of providing an economical, sporty, cavernous luxury car in one package. It is great.

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  saab 9/5 - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By hmann - August 8 - 2:00 am

  very solid car over the past 4 years. The car does need more power though. Other than that it is a fine automobile.

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  all around fun - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By tjk - August 3 - 10:00 am

  really enjoy this car! definitely a unique experience...had lexus and audi in the past. Extremely comfortable! Great seats (ventilation system is awesome) I cant wait to see what saabs next 9-5 will be like!

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  its my second, would buy a 3rd - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By David in Michigan - July 28 - 6:23 am

  I had a 99 9-5 lpt wagon, sold it to buy a 97 Volvo 850 (NA) wagon, and just could not wait to get another 9-5 wagon. The 9-5 is a much stronger car overall and even gets better gas mileage. We still have an 00 Volvo V70 XC wagon that my wife likes, but I find it inferior to the 9-5 in all respects from economy to acceleration + the 9-5 has a WB radio and gets better reception on the AM band to boot! Yes, I do have snow tires (Gislaved Nordfrosts) on the 9-5 and it is the equal of the AWD V70 (and we have a hilly, curvy 1/3-mile-long driveway!) during our winters.

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  Runs like a champ - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By johnd - July 25 - 9:30 pm

  Bought my 4- cyl turbo se special edition with BBS wheels brand new. Fun to drive, a great value for the money if you buy used. My 9-5 has 125,000 miles on it and I plan on going to 200k. Change oil with synthetic or semi- synthetic and only have had minor problems with electrical system. The panel goes bonkers sometimes but overall would buy again. Need to buy the Aero next time or Saab should make other models sportier with lowered suspension. Out handles many a surprised BMW, Audi and M-B drivers. Shock value is high.

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  Smooth, fun and safe - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Autoenthusiast - July 8 - 12:46 am

  My 5yr old nephew was impressed and loved the car because it looked like "a plane" from the outside and inside. My 3rd Saab(from: 900, 9-3SE, now 02 9- 5Linear) and have been very happy most especially the 9-5. Great space (hauled a love seat), lots of standard features that are still optional in some cars 6yrs later (side airbags, ESP, 5-spd auto tran, glovebox cooler, Trip-comp, dual sun-visors, Harmon-Kardon etc.) Safe - a fist-sized rock hit windshield 2x/2occasions and only a small chip, rear-ended by an Explorer and no damage (Explorer bumpers bent and caved-in). Great in long-drives, very peppy and quite! The Aero would have been exhilirating. Plan 2 keep it until 1M miles!