EDMUNDS.COM 2004 SAAB 9-5
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
A likable sedan in numerous ways, but it lags behind the competition when it comes to providing class-leading luxury or performance. In wagon form, however, its seductive style and superior functionality make it a more attractive proposition.
Pros
Best-in-class crash scores, long list of standard features, plush highway ride, supportive seats, large trunk.
Cons
Turbo lag at low speeds, suspension too soft for aggressive driving, interior materials could use improvement.
What''s New for 2004
For 2004, the Linear model is available only as a wagon. Arc models drop their 200-horsepower V6 and standard automatic transmission in favor of a 220-hp, four-cylinder turbo and a five-speed manual; an automatic remains optional. The Arc also picks up lower body cladding and is eligible for a 17-inch sport wheel package. Bi-xenon headlights are now offered as a stand-alone option on Arc and Aero models. Ventilated front seats, previously standard on the Arc, are now optional. Additionally, Aero models get a more aggressive lower body kit.
Overview
Introduction:
Saab''s first "large car" debuted as the 9000 in 1985. In typical Saab fashion, power came from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, but in the 9000 it was mounted transversely to allow for a larger cabin. Always at the forefront of safety technology, the 9000 gained antilock brakes and seatbelt pre-tensioners in subsequent model years. In 1993, the 9000 Aero debuted in the States with a 225-horsepower turbocharged engine, making it the fastest Saab in the lineup. When the completely redesigned model finally arrived in 1999, the 9000 became the 9-5. It still retained much of its predecessor''s distinctive lines, but replaced the five-door hatchback design with a more traditional four-door sedan arrangement (a wagon was also introduced). Engine offerings continued to be turbocharged, whether it was a 2.3-liter four-cylinder or 3.0-liter V6. With greater brand awareness among luxury car shoppers, the 9-5 was placed in competition with the likes of BMW''s 5 Series, Audi''s A6 and the Lexus ES 300. In 2002, the 9-5 received a midcycle refresh that further refined both the sedan and wagon to help them better compete with their illustrious competition. The model lineup was simplified into three distinct "architectural forms" in Saab''s words. The base "Linear" model was classic Scandinavian-stark, the IKEA version, if you will. The midlevel "Arc" model was more luxurious, with ventilated seats and extensive leather and wood trim. The top-of-the-line "Aero" was the sportiest model, with thickly bolstered seats, metallic interior trim and numerous exterior enhancements. Even with so many improvements, the fact remains that the 9-5 resides in a category filled with overly competent contenders. With its strong reputation for safety, unique styling and numerous features, the 9-5 competes favorably, but those looking for the ultimate in either luxury or sport will find some of the 9-5''s competitors more singularly able in those specific areas.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The 9-5 offers two body styles -- sedan and wagon -- and three trim levels -- Linear, Arc and Aero. Base Linear trim is offered only on the wagon; standard equipment includes 16-inch wheels, leather upholstery, walnut trim, heated power-adjustable seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a CD player, a sunroof, a 60/40-split folding rear seat and OnStar telematics. The uplevel Arc adds three-position driver-seat memory, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a 240-watt Harman-Kardon audio system. Top-of-the-line Aero models are further upgraded with 17-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, bolstered sport seats, metallic dash trim and a sport steering wheel. An optional Touring package is available that includes bi-xenon headlights, rear parking assist, auto-dimming exterior mirrors and rain-sensing wipers. Ventilated front seats are optional on Arc and Aero models.
Powertrains and Performance:
Each trim level of the 9-5 gets its own unique engine. The Linear is powered by a 185-horsepower, turbocharged 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder, while the Arc uses a higher-boost version of the same engine that produces 220 horsepower. The performance-oriented Aero gets an even higher-output version with a rating of 250 hp. This year, all 9-5s come standard with a five-speed manual transmission, while a five-speed automatic is optional. The automatic includes steering wheel-mounted buttons for manual shifting.
Safety:
All 9-5s feature adaptive-force front airbags, active head restraints and seat-mounted side airbags that protect the heads and torsos of front occupants. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and stability and traction control are standard on all models. In government crash testing, the 9-5 earned a perfect five stars for driver and front-passenger protection in frontal impacts. In side-impact tests, the Saab received five stars for front-occupant protection and four stars for the rear. The IIHS gave the 9-5 a "Good" rating (the best possible) in frontal offset crash testing and named it a "Best Pick."
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Most drivers will find the 9-5''s seats exceptionally comfortable, especially those equipped with the optional heating and ventilation feature. The gauges look a bit dated, but the radio and climate controls are easily accessible and simple to use. Materials quality could use improvement in some spots, but passenger room is excellent all around. A split-folding rear seat and nearly 16 cubic feet of trunk space give the 9-5 an added level of versatility. The wagon supplies 37 cubes of luggage capacity with the rear seats in use and 73 cubes when they''re folded.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Although its turbo power plant and sporty looks might suggest otherwise, the 9-5 feels more at home on the highway than it does ripping through a twisty canyon. Aero models can hold their own once you get used to the front-wheel-drive power, but an intrusive stability control system and excessive body roll discourage aggressive driving. Unlike most sport sedans and wagons, the 9-5 is preferable with the automatic, as it makes better use of the turbo engine''s unusual power band.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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