Though the latest Saab 9-5 draws on GM technology for its platform and powertrains, distinct styling inside and out along with unique mechanical calibrations and features make for a sedan worthy of the Saab badge. Now much larger inside and out (and also much heavier) than the outgoing model, the latest 9-5 is actually roomier than mid-sized rivals like the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Although the face of the latest and all-new Saab 9-5 is familiar, the overall body shape is very new for the big sedan. The latest model's roof flows much smoother into the rear, making it look almost coupe-like. The “hockey-stick” shaped rear windows are a nod to Saab’s past. Styling cues from 9-4X BioPower concept are clearly present - making Saab's final GM-created model a welcome fresh face for the Scandinavian automaker's aging lineup.
Although relatively monochromatic, the cabin contains an ergonomically friendly layout as well as tastefully modern renditions of traditional Saab interior cues like cross-hatched air vents and a start-stop button located behind the shifter on the center console. The needles in the instrument cluster are lighted in a unique, tactical-feeling green, while an optional head-ups display that projects vital information onto the base of the windshield pays further homage to Saab’s “Inspired By Jets” tagline.
Drivers of high-end models will enjoy the Saab-exclusive DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control, as well as Saab XWD (all-wheel drive) with rear eLSD (limited-slip differential). Combined, these technologies help to make the new Saab 9-5 Sedan a viable choice for buyers in any climate.
Compared to the outgoing model, the new 9-5 gains some extra weight, height and length. The wheelbase is also increased by 14 cm to improve ride dynamics and comfort, and ultimately making it a larger and more competitive vehicle against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Cadillac CTS and Volvo S80.
The new 9-5 comes with a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions and -- true to Saab tradition -- only turbocharged powerplants.
The 9-5 can be had with a 220 horsepower 2.0-liter turbo four that provides a useful 258 lb-ft of torque or a range-topping 300 horsepower 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 with 295 lb-ft of torque. Models fitted with the 2.8-liter engine come equipped with Saab's XWD all-wheel drive system and the six-speed automatic transmission.
The four-cylinder and automatic transmission combination is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while those willing to exercise their left foot and right hand will be rewarded with significantly higher 20/33 mpg figures for the manual transmission. The turbo six consumes fuel at the rate of 17/27 mpg.
Trim Level Breakdown
The Saab 9-5 is available in four distinct trim levels: Turbo4, Turbo4 Premium, Turbo6 XWD and Aero.
The entry-level Turbo4, as the name suggests, comes with the turbocharged four-cylinder and is well-equipped with features including power adjustable driver and passenger’s seats, leather upholstery, five-spoke alloy wheels, fog lamps and rain-sensing wipers.
Stepping up to the Turbo4 Premium adds a panoramic sunroof, headlamp washers, Saab parking assistance, keyless entry and start, memory seats and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Turbo6 XWD nets the turbocharged six-cylinder, all-wheel drive and six-speed automatic transmission as standard.
The top-spec Premium trim brings 15-spoke “Rotor” 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-trimmed sports seats, a multi-color central information display, Bi-Xenon SmartBeam headlamps, dark titanium-effect interior trim, aluminum sports pedals, a sport-tuned suspension with real-time damping and unique Aero exterior elements.
Options include a rear-seat package with tri-zone automatic climate control and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system as well as a technology package that brings a heads-up display, lane departure warning system, an advanced parking assistance system and the SmartBeam headlamps.
Stand-alone options range from an 11-speaker Harmon / Kardon sound system to a navigation system with an 8-inch touchscreen with a 10 GD hard drive for music storage.
Safety
All Saab 9-5 models are equipped with dual front, front side and rear side airbags, a roll-over sensing system and traction and stability control systems. A tire pressure monitoring system is also fitted as standard.