Saab

9-5 Saloon/Estate

Scandinavian design is a key factor to the success of the 9-5 saloon and estate models. Both boast head-turning good looks, fantastic performance figures and a whole host of class-leading technology and specifications.

Test Drive

Saab 9-5 2.0T Aero

With beautifully-crafted design features, unbelievable streamlining and outstanding performance, the Saab 9-5 really has it all.

The drive in the 2.0-litre petrol-driven car is exceptional with a very smooth transition through the six-speed automatic gearbox and cabin noise is virtually non-existent, even on faster motorways.

From the second you lay eyes on the Saab 9-5 Aero model, you cannot fail to be impressed with its classy almost bullet-like appearance with its 19-inch alloy wheels and twin exposed tailpipes and that build quality is constant throughout the entire vehicle.

The interior boasts luxurious leather seats with adjustable cushion lengths and three heat settings and these seats can be electrically adjusted in six directions in pursuit of that perfect driving position.

In addition, there’s a premium sports leather steering wheel, cruise control, auto dimming interior mirror, rain-sensing wipers, parking assistance front and rear, sat nav, dual zone climate control, an excellent sound system with CD player, nine speakers and MP3 compatibility. There is keyless push button start/stop feature and a switch to activate the handbrake.

Comfort levels are very high although rear seat passengers are not treated to very much headroom due to the sleek streamlining of the vehicle as it tapers off towards the rear end. But that does mean there is a very generously-sized boot along with plenty of other storage options throughout the car.

In and around town, the 9-5 cruised through the busy city centre traffic and, despite its vast length, the vehicle was actually quite easy to park with the assistance of those parking sensors, of course.

Then, out on faster roads, the Saab was perfectly tuned to deal with higher speeds – acceleration and that little bit extra power was always on tap when required. Visibility was generally very good although a little limited through the rear window – again due to the smooth streamlining at the rear. The heads-up display offers the perfect option for keeping a watch on your speed without lowering your eyes to the usual dials.

As one would expect, the 9-5 boasts a very comprehensive list of safety features including anti-lock brakes, electronic stability programme, cornering brake control, numerous airbags, Saab’s active head restraints and plenty more besides.

All in all, the Saab has great looks, delivers a brilliant ride and offers safety for all occupants. Admittedly, at £34.8k with all the extras it’s not cheap, but some things you simply can’t put a price on.

Test Drive

Saab 9-5 Aero 2.3 HOT Estate

If it’s jaw-dropping good looks combined with outstanding performance credentials that top your car-hunting wish list then look no further than the Saab 9-5.

With its highly acclaimed aircraft design heritage, it comes as no surprise that Saab vehicles boast some of the best streamlining specifications, cockpit designs and aerodynamics on the market today.

And the top-of-the-range 9-5 Aero model certainly lived up to such a high billing.

From the second you enter the cabin, you cannot fail to be impressed by the level of luxury. The comfortable leather seats and general ergonomics throughout have certainly been created with the driver’s comfort in mind.

All controls and dials are perfectly positioned for ease of use and that means you barely have to divert your eyes from the road at all.

The test model was powered by a 2.3-litre engine which delivered a fantastic drive and the five-speed transmission was both smooth and responsive at all times.

Road-holding was excellent and parking in tight spaces was a complete doddle thanks to the high level of unobstructed visibility throughout the vehicle.

Five adults can travel in comfort, plus there is plenty of room for all their luggage requirements too thanks to a generously-sized boot area. Elsewhere, there are numerous smaller storage compartments scattered around.

The 9-5 was awarded a top score of five stars in the Euro NCAP safety ratings so it comes as no surprise to see the vehicle is kitted out with anti-lock brakes, traction control, rain sensors, auto-dimming mirrors, reinforced doors, numerous airbags and plenty more.

If I had to find fault, then the interior is a tad dowdy and lacks the same sparkle and razzle dazzle found elsewhere on the vehicle.

But that tiny gripe aside, the Saab 9-5 is a great vehicle crammed with quality features and one its design team can be extremely proud of.