Saab's big sedan, a direct descendent of its successful - though extremely long-living - 9000, seems to be living up to its predecessor's reputation. On the market since early-1998 as a 1999 model for North America, the 9-5 has been freshened twice, though its basic platform dates to a different era.

Still, for Saab-o-philes yearning for the strong, unique flavors promised by the Swedish automaker, the 9-5 continues to deliver. The ignition is right where it belongs according to Saab: Between the front seats in the center console. The dashboard wraps aggressively around the driver. The front seat map light looks like something out of first class on a commercial airplane. There's a night panel function that shuts off all unnecessary gauges except for the speedometer. These aren't features you'll find on a BMW or an Audi.

Yet despite all of these unique features, the 9-5 has become a little watered down over the years thanks to General Motors' ownership. The 9-5 is based on GM's German Opel architecture and some of the trim bits - the radio, for instance - are obvious parts bin pieces.

Still, the 9-5 is the last Saab to feature the automaker's reliable "H"2.3-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged motor, tuned to 260 horsepower. That engine, renowned for its long-term reliability, might not be the definition of smooth, but it's quite torquey, producing an impressive 258 lb-ft. over an even more impressively flat and broad torque curve.

The motor mounts up to either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic, making the 9-5 somewhat unique in its class by allowing drivers to shift for themselves. The 9-5 is exclusively front-wheel-drive.

The base 9-5 2.3T features standard heated, power leather seats, a harman/kardon audio system with an in-dash CD changer, power moonroof, an air conditioned glovebox, 17 inch alloy wheels, stability control, an automatic dimming mirror, heated rear seats and a trip computer. The step-up Aero model lowers the suspension a little and includes silver interior trim in place of genuine wood. For 2008, GM's OnStar system and rain-sensing wipers are newly standard.

Options for all include a Visibility Package, which for $1,295 adds a rear-obstacle detection system, automatic dimming exterior mirrors and bi-Xenon headlamps. A navigation system, ventilated seats (the 9-5 was the first production car to feature ventilated seats) and a new-for-2008 premium full-leather upholstery package round out the options list.