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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  good alternative - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By ssst - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Fast acceleration, great passing ability at mid to high speed, great handling (considering its size and weight), and great torque at low RPM. I feel that I am driving a compact car than a midsize sedan. As a running machine, Saab 9-5 Aero is an excellent one, a great alternative to BMW 5 series, Volvo S60. For 2002 Model year, Saab 9-5 is competitive feature wise. However, it is aging fast compare to others in 2003 or later model years.

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  Best Combination of Power-Practicability - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By geo_geo_geo - May 11 - 2:00 am

  This is the second Saab Wagon I have owned. The first was a 2000 9-5 SE that I leased and my main complaint about that one was its mushy handling. The Aero wagon corrects that problem admirably. It is very tight on the road and really hits its stride at 50 mph and above speeds. I had looked at the Volvo, BMW 5 series, and Audi 6 series wagons and eliminated the BMW for cost issues, the Audi for repair record and the Volvo for handling. This car is a joy to drive and not so flashy that I worry about parking on big city streets.

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  Saab Linear - Nice for the price - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Mangosteen - May 4 - 10:00 am

  We got our 9-5 sedan and drove it to Canada for vacation. Nice and smooth ride. Very stable at high speeds (80+).

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  Saab 95 Aero review by HL - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By howard l - April 30 - 10:00 am

  Handles well with a very nice acceleration. Fit and finish could be a little more modern and tighter. The interior is sturdy and wears very well. The materials always look new. I had a 2000 model and it was the same. The interior room is adequate, yet the outside is not too big. Trunk space is great. The car could use a nicer stereo and the vanity mirrors have useless lights.

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  Why do I still Like this car? - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Ted - April 27 - 10:20 pm

  Bought the Linear model new but at a deep discount ($30k). Have had the typical failures -- fuel pump, heater valve, ignition cartridge, sunroof, and most recently the brake booster. Repairs are crazy expensive, and Ive spent way too much on them. But then I get behind the wheel and realize I really like the driving experience. Fuel economy is great, and the turbo is there when you need some punch. Its a great travel car, and the trunk is spacious. One of my criteria was "4 men and 4 sets of golf clubs". It works.

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  Expensive to keep - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Disa - April 24 - 2:20 am

  Saw the price list for Service at the Dealership. Will sell this car after the free service. Charging close to $1000.00 for a major service. And charges of $480 for minor service. That is pretty steep to change oil and fuilds on minor service and that does not include pads on brakes or belts and timing chains. You will pay for all the free service before. Not worth the car.

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  Dont think the dealer should know my name - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By Frank - April 18 - 6:13 pm

  This car is a nice cheap option used and comes with a nice warranty. Once the warranty expires GET RID OF THE CAR! Car currently needs $5000 worth of repairs (head gasket, rear main seal and abs module). What a hunk of garbage! DO NOT BUY A SAAB, spend the extra few grand and get a Honda, Toyota or Nissan. The dealer knows, my name, my wifes name and my kids names. Unfortunately I also have a Saab 95 wagon. Cant wait to get rid of that either. GARBAGE CAR!!!! If they are born from Jets, then I am done flying!

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  Love it! - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By grocerygetter - April 13 - 7:50 am

  Love my car. Love it so much. The manual transmission is a blast to drive, especially downshifting to 4th to kick in that turbo. Sturdy and safe and comfy for me (54) and hubby (62) and our family. We couldnt be happier!

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  Terrible smell - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Jay Simon - March 28 - 10:00 am

  I leased my Saab new in Nov. 2000. Ever since I brought the car home it has emitted a sulfur smell from the catalytic converter. The Saab service department told me to change gas brand and octanes and that the problem would clear up after 6000 miles. Then they said 10,000. I did everything they suggested and nothing helps. I cant even open the windows. The smell of sulfur makes you sick. But, what makes it worse is Saabs refusal to fix the problem. I was told by the dealership mechanic that they wouldnt do anything for me.

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  Best car Ive owned - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By donkle - March 24 - 2:00 am

  Not only is this the best car Ive ever owned, SAABs warranty is AWESOME. Example: The decal peeled away from the front emblem... they replaced free, no questions asked. The dual zone climate control flaked out on me twice, but it righted itself within minutes... they replaced it even though the couldnt duplicate the problem. I drove this front-wheel drive beauty in a Noreaster in 2002 from NY, through the mountains of PA, to OH and it performed like a CHAMP. I want another.