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:

• 

  Awesome Ride! - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By toxicavenger70 - April 30 - 7:26 pm

  This is my second 9-5 wagon but this one is Limited Edition Gary Fisher. Great car but I did do a Saab ECU upgrade and it took all the turbo lag out of it! No slow starts from the light anymore! It is almost like I have it in Sport Mode all the time. Best seats I have ever sat in for a long time and heated seats that dont cook your bottom. Car handles great in our Colorado snow with snowtires (no studs). It did have the standard SID problems, Coolant bypass valve, #6 PVC update and crappy tires. But I get BBA reman. to fix the SID and it has a warranty for 86 bones, PCV update 50 bones and now the car is ready to rock!

• 

  Best Seat on the Highway - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By NOTIZ - April 23 - 10:00 am

  This is the best seat in any car made.No problems with car after 80ooo miles.They should bring the turbo diesel over from Europe to better the fuel mileage.

• 

  Bought it new - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By Doc W - April 22 - 8:23 am

  Had this car for 9 years and it has been great. Ive owned many European cars and the trick is to follow maintenance strictly. Maintenance is expensive, but cheaper than a car payment, and it looks as classy as 9 years ago.

• 

  Saab Aero is fun - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By RaviSingh - April 3 - 10:00 am

  I have driven a number of European vehicles over the years. The 2000 Saab Aero has definitely been the most fun to drive. After leasing it on a 42 month lease, I have decided to buy out the car. It is ergonomically built for the drivers comfort. Things which others find Quirky such as the ignition in the middle is actually much safer as the key and lock mechanism is known to cause knee injuries. This car has a 230hp engine and goes 0- 60 in around 6 seconds. Excellent safety record, great preformance and outstanding handling.

• 

  i want a brand new 2001 saab wagon - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By m white - March 27 - 10:00 am

  After 138,000 miles with nothing but routine maintenance the turbo just blew. we replaced it and suddenly we have gone from great mileage (41 mpg on the highway) to 45.5 mpg! i love driving this car, i love the manual transmission, the way it handles in snow and wet and the comfy seats. i love the cargo space and the split seats and the heated seats. we drive pets and us to Maine and back every summer and need not to get stuck on the road.- i am thinking we need a new car but dont want to turn this sweet thing in.

• 

  happy SAAB owner - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By dnf - March 21 - 10:00 am

  You cant beat this cars overall performance and features for the cost (low 30s new). The beauty of the cars styling is in the eye of the beholder ... so, if you like the cars looks, I would highly recommend the 9- 5. I like the fact that not everyone drives a SAAB.

• 

  Saab Dad - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By jadam2122 - March 16 - 2:00 am

  Super safe, much fun to drive. Makes it cool to be a dad. Little different than everyone elses car. great mix of large doses of drivability and high-end features with moderate cost especially for lease deals.

• 

  Saab 9.5 smooth driving and fast turbo - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Susan C. - March 8 - 7:03 am

  You will love the turbo function.-front wheel drive gives great stiring options-smooth ride

• 

  You want to buy a what? Accord? NO WAY!! - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By zfamily - March 6 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned this car 4 years and have put 120,000 on it. With a demanding travel schedule, I couldnt ask for a better and more comfortable ride. Ive had a few minor problems with computer screens going bad on the dash, which arent cheap to repair, by the way - but no major mechanical problems. When I wear this one out, Ill buy another one. Dont waste your time with an overrated and inferior Honda Accord or Camry, theres no comparison (for you die hard Honda Toyota fans). I also own an Accord, my 2nd one. The only reason its sitting in my drive way is because its a company car and I have to drive it. I cringe whenever I have to get behind the wheel

• 

  Value sport - 2007 Saab 9-5
  By Denver Aero - February 15 - 7:50 am

  Great highway cruiser and the new suspension is very adept in corners. Compares in price to the 300 bmw series, but is larger. Ive enjoyed the sport-tuned suspension. Saab owners are used to the higher power band, so no biggie that first gear isnt much. Its a thriller to drive and own. Ive enjoyed it and its surprisingly practical. I have lots of warranty protection, but this build quality is much better than my 96 900SE. No hint of any probs yet. Realistically to get a car 4 people could fit in would cost me $45,000- 50,000 after options.