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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  Over Engineered and Poorly Built - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By PRR - June 29 - 2:00 am

  This has been a very unreliable car. Lots of things have gone wrong and have been replaced. Have become good friends with mechanics since I see them very regularly i.e. at scheduled maintenances and many times in between. Bad electrical system - head lights burn out regularly; climate control system that dictates to you. Very expensive to repair. Noisy when travelling. Still have original brakes but not much else original. High roof line so I can see out the front and my head does not hit the roof. There is no sunroof!!! Great cruise control and good mileage: 29.1 mpg for 95000 miles. In summary most expensive and worst new car that I have ever owned.

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  I love a SAAB - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By dc2 - June 23 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 2000 Gary Fisher edition wagon about 3 months ago with 25,000 miles. This car was/is in fantastic shape. In 3 months I have put on 8700 miles and have fallen in love with this vehicle, and plan to keep it for atleast 200,000 miles. Will it last that long? I dont know this is my first SAAB, but so far Im hooked for life. I am dissappointed in the fuel ecnomy as in 3 months I have not gotton over 24 mpg, and I drive 98% highway, althouh I do have quite the lead foot! ALTHOUGH BEWARE OF CENTRAL SAAB IN NORWOOD, MASS!!!!

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  Saab 9-5 SE 6 cylinder - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By SEELOS - June 21 - 10:00 am

  Having owed only SAABs for the last 10 years, we have seen the good and the bad. This 2001 9-5 SE with heated and ventilated seats is the best so far.The turbo performance has great acceleration, especially in the sport mode. The ventilated seats are great when the weather is hot and have to be turned down because one starts to get the chills. In winter, the heated heats are almost always on. When my wife drives our 2000 9-3 SE SAAB she never turns the heated seats off. The only thing that could be better could be the legroom in the rear seats. .

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  just bought new SAAB 9-5 with 1,600 mile on it - 2011 Saab 9-5
  By amigabuzz - June 19 - 10:47 am

  Started looking at the 9-3s which are similar to our Lexus IS250.. note we have 2 small children and the lexus IS 250 is void of a back seat. 9-3 has fairly roomy back seat, but curious jumped in a 9-5 and wow huge. So tests drove 4 models the 2 aeros with the six cyl and 2 4cyl different dealers and some negotiations now own a 9-5 4cyl. Wow its easy to get the 100mph (waite no police read these - they get company cars) and not know it. Only gripe is the lack of DVD options for the back seat..have to go second party and the coin bin needs better fit, but hey the bin is a below my knees who looks down there.

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  Saab Owner - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Jen80917 - June 18 - 10:00 am

  This car is the best car I have ever owned. It is great to drive and is very dependable.

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  turbo power - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By aniszaman - June 18 - 10:00 am

  Power,when you need it most i,e, at passing is there with the turbo.An excellent value with all the features.

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  Remarkable Balance - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Slee_Stack - June 15 - 7:46 am

  Although Ive only owned my Aero for just over two months, Ive had some good experience with what this car excels at and what may be trouble spots. With all its gadgetry, Ive already had my share of glitches, most notably poor performing rain-sensing wipers, a result of a poor sensor. Various electrical gremlins also pop up on occasion, but are mild irritants at worst. The 9-5 in Aero guise is a great looking and oddly rare car in the sea of Bimmers, Lexii, and Benz that swarm the roads of Atlanta. While in no way a neck-snapper, the Aero has plenty enough zip to best most sporty sedans on the road. Where it truly dazzles is doing this and still returning 30mpg on the highway

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  More fun than should be legal - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By Rocklin Ed - June 12 - 10:00 am

  Saab 9.5 Aero: The road handling is superb with the 17" wheels and the Pirelli wide tires. The feeling is total and effortless control, especially on winding Sierra mountain roads. Braking has perfect feel. Ventilated seats are a great plus in Sacramento summer heat. Seats fit like a glove. I test drove BMW 525 and Mercedes C sport coupe and the Saab beats them both. What understeer? Turbo lag is there, but Im not drag racing, and when you kick it to merge or manuever on the highway it snaps nicely. Before you buy a sport sedan, drive an Aero.

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  STAY AWAY - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By tiffm - June 6 - 8:58 pm

  Listen to the warnings before purchasing this car! This car is not worth the headaches you will more then likely endure. I purchased this car with 85K miles in March of 2011. I was carpooling with a group of peers so I drove the car for ONE full week during that first month. On day 34, my engine seized. I replaced that engine. Since then, I have also replaced numerous belts, sensors, pumps. Every 3-4 weeks this car was in the shop and needed a new overpriced part that was impossible to find. Engine failure is a common problem with this year as I have learned the hard way. The engine I purchased to replace the original one seized on us recently as well. Please save your $$ and think twice!!

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  Great driving car... - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By JJReed - June 3 - 2:00 am

  Great car for driving, if your the dashboard diner type this may not be the car for you. Cupholders are basically non-existent and there really isnt any storage space for "stuff". The car looks great and performs even better. It truly was made for driving not dining.