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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  needs all wheel drive - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By carguy - December 28 - 11:00 am

  Although this car is front wheel drive, it was fun to drive. I have owned several Saabs, and this 9-5 drove as good or better then all of them. Saabs are known for their torque, and the new 2.3 turbo was strong from second gear on up (first gear was weak). Unfortunately, there is still torque steer under hard acceleration (negative of front wheel drive cars). Seats were very supported and comfortable, stereo was very good, it shifted smoothly, and handled well. If Saab made this all wheel drive, they would have an awesome car to compete with the best from Europe, the front wheel drive on this car stops it from measurng up to other sport sedans. Over all, for the money, its a fun, comfortable car

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  A Unique Blend of Virtues - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By Charlie - December 13 - 1:46 am

  This is a great all-around family vehicle, with something for everyone. Its got great interior space, attractive exterior appearance, exciting turbo performance, economical gas mileage, and reasonable mechanical reliability.

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  my 6th Saab - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By TMJ - November 3 - 10:00 am

  I have owned a Saab since 1970. The vehicle that I drive now is my 6th Saab and have been thoroughly satisfied with its performance. The only criticism I have pertains to the on board computer which malfunctions now and again especially on humid days. I have encountered this problem on previous models too! I also enjoy the sound system, probably the best in the field.

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  Least reliable car, Ever! - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By T in Seattle - October 20 - 8:53 am

  Bought this car used in 2003 with 60k miles on it. Initially enjoyed its comfort, style and all that, but in 2.5 years have spent $10,000 (more than it is even worth now!) on repairs - DI unit, transmission (at 80k miles), and other, smaller but still spendy flaws too numerous to mention. Now the ABS has gone, and we stand to spend another thousand, and that is if my mechanic finds a used part. Had I known the car consumed money instead of gasoline, would have gone with another make. Could have bought two of something more reliable . . .

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  Saab 9-5 Wagon - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By bruceposner - October 7 - 2:00 am

  This is a comfortable family car for both city and highway driving. In town, it is nimble and easy to park. On highway it is quiet and the turbo gives the 4 cylinder more than enough pep.

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  Great to drive just too many problems - 2001 Saab 9-5
  By tarina - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Love to drive, having terrible problems with sunroof making noise - going in for fourth repair, a noise in the dash area sounding like styrafoam rubbing together - absolutely annoying for such a luxury vehicle, lights are not suppose to change automatically and do, tires are wearing usually early a major problem with coolant sensor that has not been fixed - going in for third repair. On lease dont want vehicle anymore.

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  9-5 Linear Wagon - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By pierrot - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Solid Car, reliable, fun to drive, versatile, cargo hauler, sporty, multi- purpose, original and different. This car is multi-faceted and serves multiple functions well. It has lots of character and always fun to drive on country roads and turns into a real cruiser on the highway in 5th gear.

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  First SAAB - 2002 Saab 9-5
  By My first Euro Car - September 18 - 2:00 am

  I was cross shopping top of the line TL, I35, Passat. Here are factors for deciding on SAAB: The PRICE - I was cross shopping among the low 30s so you can guess how much I paid for my SAAB fully loaded Performance - I test drove all 4 mentioned above. In reality, ARE YOU going to do 0-60 for all the red lights? I was looking for more of low- end torque to pass on highways and consistent power throughout and excellent handling (which ESP helps a lot) Features - Out of 4 cars mentioned, SAAB was only short of (Nav sys of Acura, 4wd of Passat, Rear Shade of I35 (not to mention 255hp)) But, other than that SAAB had much more features

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  Good could be better - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By Leon2 - September 7 - 10:00 am

  The car is extremely comfortable, especially if you have long legs. The engine has plenty of power but sometimes there is a turbo lag and sometimes there is no lag, making it not reliable when accelerating to pass: will it kick right-away???

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  Good and well-balanced car - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By DCSwede - August 28 - 1:10 am

  The Saabs ride-handling balance is a good compromise (somewhat favoring ride quality), and it has good performance and responsiveness (esp. with the sport mode engaged). Its quiet without being Lexus-like and has a very good sound system. The seats are comfortable (though it can be tricky to find a good seating position), and the interior spacious. Respectable highway fuel economy (~25 mpg). Largely reliable (though when needed, repairs/ maintenance is expensive). Overall, its a very good car, but the base (2.3L turbo) engine provides nearly equal performance and better fuel economy; Id also recommend buying a car of 2002 model year or later, when a number of improvements were made.