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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  Hopefully the SECRET will live on... - 2008 Saab 9-5
  By MD - December 3 - 9:20 pm

  I purchased my Saab after needing a sedan to mate with my Suburban that achieves a more corporate style, without going over the top. I have had my eye on the 9-5 for years. This is the best SECRET car buy out there. Like other reviewers, I was able to get mine at a great price and although it lacks some refinement, this is a great car. Highway driving I get 30mpg and in the curves it is a fun car to drive. My wife drives a Volvo XC70, which we love for its utility and space with two children and a dog, but the Saab has it beat! The Suburban is a living room on wheels with 4WD; great for trips and the outdoors. The Saab is just plain FUN and I get compliments all the time.

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  This is my SUV - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By ACF - November 28 - 10:00 am

  2nd Saab (also have a 1992 900S), and its great. This wagon holds its own on many fronts. A Suburban rear ended me hard at a stop light--I drove away, he was towed (anti-whiplash headrest was amazing). Turbo is satisfying for every day driving, though Saab did the right thing in increasing the base HP. Safety, cavernous storage, driver comfort, extras—a great value. Rear seat room good even for adults. Im surprised at complaints of quality problems-- dealer did replace SID recently, but at 3 years this car could be almost showroom quality. I expect to drive it for 5-7 more years.

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  Rented a Linear, bought an Aero - 2003 Saab 9-5
  By cutter - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I never thought I would like Saabs. Until renting a Linear to go to San Diego. and couldnt have loved it more. As soon as I had gotten to the point to purchase a car in these price ranges..I bought the silver Aero right off the lot. Its a car that;s in the same class as the 5 seies, or A6 models, yet hovers in the price range of a 3, or A4. Smooth as silk all the way to 140 mph. Ergonomics are excellent in the ol cockpit, heated seats all the way around, beautiful harmon/kardon stereo, and people love staring at the mystical glow of on of the best xenon lighting systems Iv seen.

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  More rattles than a box of biscuits - 2006 Saab 9-5
  By charles pinnick - November 20 - 8:06 pm

  Lovely car for the price but unfortunately I bought it new and could not get much of a deal. I am a slender 170lbs yet the cushion bottom on my leather ventilated sport-seats has gone nearly flat and I am sitting on the frame. Dealership said they fixed it by putting a new one in (and billing Saab no doubt) but I believe they simply turned it over and puffed it out. Bad for the back - and that is one of the reasons I bought my second Saab 9-5. The rattles on this car KILL me. The plastics are low-grade economy plastics and there are more rattles in this new design than there were in the older vehicle. These new vintages suffer from shoddier plastics--Saab says 1 yr on rattles-bs!

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  I Hope Saab Returns - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By mr_monza - November 14 - 11:20 am

  Its really a shame----bordering on despicable----that the failed General Motors Corporation, survivors only due to the U.S. government flooding them with millions of our tax dollars----saw fit to essentially drive Saab out of business. Its a long story, but suffice to say, holding preferred shares of Saab stock, GM blocked the sale of Saab to a Chinese company, forcing them into bankruptcy. As I write this, Saab is hanging by a thread hoping to find a buyer GM will "allow" or finding a different way to stay in business, without the devils at GM lording it over them. Regarding my car----its a 2004 Saab 9-5 Arc Wagon, with automatic transmission. I bought it new. Reliable, great car.

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  Auto Industry best kept secret - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By greeny9 - October 28 - 2:00 am

  This car offers a great balance of ride, handling and accelleration. It has nice qulity feel and look to it both inside and out. So far It has been very reliable.

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  Great GAS Milage - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Candy - October 26 - 10:03 pm

  I dont know where you got 19 city and 28 hwy, but I average 25-28 city and 33-35 hwy. I have the 95 turbo and love it, just wish it was a convertable.

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  second wagon - 2004 Saab 9-5
  By SwedeH - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This is my fourth SAAB and I have loved all of them. My convertible was the best of all but was impractical for carrying loads and extra passengers. This is my second wagon and both are comfortable to drive, carry reasonable loads, and are not in a category with the cumbersome SUVs that guzzle gas, are difficult to squeeze into parking spots, and are hard for older people to climb into. It has all the features of and SUV and is not a monstrosity. I love it.

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  Happy so far - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By chris - October 15 - 3:13 pm

  I bought an Arc wagon off-lease; it is really an excellent value and a lot of car for the money. It has all the modern passive and active safety features, and feels very secure on the road. The Swedish seats are the most comfortable in the business. Super ride quality and excellent mileage on the freeway- this is a great commuter car. The suspension definitely favors ride over cornering, but the Saab is plenty responsive with quick steering and good feedback. The 2.3T motor is a torquey beast- it pulls from 40-70 mph in the blink of an eye.

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  Another Saab - 2005 Saab 9-5
  By Rick - October 9 - 9:36 pm

  This is our 4th Saab and believe it to be the best of the bunch. We just stepped down from owning an Aero due to the requirement for premium gas. The Arc only requires regular unleaded. We do not find much difference in the Arcs ability versus the Aero. However, we are not aggressive drivers anyway.