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Saab 9-5

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Saab Automobile
Company typeSubsidiary
IndustryAutomotive
PredecessorSaab 9000 (replaced by Saab 9-5)
FoundedJune 1, 1945; 81 years ago (1945-06-01)
Defunct2012 (2012)
FateInsolvency
Headquarters
Trollhättan
,
Sweden
ProductsSaab 9-5 executive car
ParentSpyker Cars (from 2010)


Not to be confused with Saab 95.

Template:Infobox automobile

The Saab 9-5 is an executive car produced and sold by Saab Automobile between 1997 and 2012, spanning two distinct generations.

Debuting in 1997 as a model for the 1998 year, the initial generation of the 9-5 replaced the Saab 9000. This vehicle marked a notable advancement for Saab at that time. In the U.S. market, the model was launched in spring 1998 as a 1999 model year offering. Between 1997 and 2010, it was available in both four-door sedan and station wagon configurations. The model underwent significant mid-cycle updates in both 2001 and 2005.

The second-generation version was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 15, 2009, with production commencing in March of the following year. This iteration was the first Saab released under the ownership of Spyker Cars, although its development was largely completed during General Motors' tenure. Production ended in 2012 due to Saab’s insolvency.

Overview

Although officially badged as the Saab 95, the company consistently promoted it as the Saab 9-5, pronounced "nine five" rather than "ninety-five". It is important to distinguish this model from the earlier Saab 95, which was manufactured from 1959 until 1978.

The first-generation Saab 9-5 was offered in sedan and station wagon body styles. From an aerodynamic standpoint, the sedan achieved a drag coefficient of 0.29, while the wagon measured at 0.31 (and slightly higher at 0.33 for U.S. versions). Introduced in 1999, the wagon incorporated features such as adjustable floor tracks for cargo security and a sliding load floor designed to simplify loading tasks.

Notably, the Saab 9-5 was pioneering in providing ventilated seats as a production option and also introduced asymmetrical turbocharging technology with its 3.0L V6 engine.

The final first-generation sedan was produced at the Trollhättan facility in early July 2009, with the last station wagon assembled on February 1, 2010. Over its production span from mid-1997 to early 2010, total output reached approximately 252,236 sedans and 231,357 wagons, summing to around 483,593 units—slightly less than its predecessor, the Saab 9000, which totaled about 503,000 units.

In 2009, General Motors sold the manufacturing tooling for this first-generation model to China's BAIC Group.

First generation (YS3E, 1997–2010)

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Engines

The initial generation of the Saab 9-5 utilized the B205 and B235 inline-four engines from Saab’s H engine family. Starting in Europe from the year 2002, the model incorporated an Opel-sourced Ecotec X22DTH diesel engine rated at 2.2 liters (known as Saab D223L), which was later succeeded in 2006 by Fiat’s turbocharged, sixteen-valve, JTD diesel unit of a smaller displacement of 1.9 liters. Between the years of 1999 and early-2003, a turbocharged variant of General Motors’ distinctive GM B308 V6—featuring a unique asymmetrical low-pressure turbocharger—was offered exclusively with an automatic gearbox. This V6 option, identifiable by its dual exhaust outlets, was limited to Arc, SE, and Griffin trims only. In the year of 2004, Saab replaced the V6 with a high-pressure turbocharged inline-four capable of producing approximately 220[convert: needs unit name]. By the time production reached the US market in and after the year of 2006, this same four-cylinder engine’s output had increased to around 260[convert: needs unit name], even on non-Aero or non-performance variants.

Owners of vehicles equipped with B2x5 engines occasionally encountered problems related to oil pickup caused by accumulation of 'oil sludge' within the lubrication system. To address this concern, Saab distributed a Workshop Bulletin in the year of 1999 highlighting this issue. The sludge problem predominantly affected earlier models manufactured between approximately the years of ’99 and ’03. From model year ’04 onward, improvements were made through a redesigned positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system and by recommending fully synthetic lubricants.

For vehicles produced between ’99 and ’03, Saab provided retrofit kits to upgrade their PCV systems to align with the revised design introduced in ’04 and later models. Moreover, in response to these concerns, Saab extended its warranty on B2x5 engines to cover eight years with unlimited mileage from original purchase date starting in the year of ’05 for owners who could verify adherence to prescribed oil change schedules. As a preventive recommendation, Saab advised using fully synthetic or synthetic blend oils to mitigate potential sludge formation.

Engine options

Model Production years Engine Type of engine Displacement Peak power Peak torque 0–100 km/h (0-62 mph) (seconds)[1]
1.9TiD 2006–2009 Fiat JTD Z19DTH I4, diesel 1,910 cc 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) at 4,000 rpm 320 N⋅m (236 lbf⋅ft) at 2,000 rpm 10.1 (10.7)
1.9TiD Hirsch 2009 Fiat JTD Z19DTH I4, diesel 1,910 cc 175 PS (129 kW; 173 hp) at 4,000 rpm 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft) at 2,000 rpm (10.5)
2.2TiD 2002–2005 Opel Ecotec Y22DTH I4, diesel 2,171 cc 120 PS (88 kW; 118 hp) at 4,000 rpm 280 N⋅m (207 lbf⋅ft) at 1,500 rpm 11.0
3.0 V6TiD 2002-2005 Isuzu DMAX D308L V6, diesel 2,958 cc 177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) at 4,000 rpm 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft) at 1,800 rpm 8.9
2.0t 1998–2009 B205E I4, petrol 1,985 cc 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) at 5,500 rpm 240 N⋅m (177 lbf⋅ft) at 1,800 rpm 9.8 (10.2)
2.0t (SAAB tuned) 1998–2009 B205L I4, petrol 1,985 cc 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp) at 5,500 rpm 310 N⋅m (229 lbf⋅ft) at 1,700 rpm 8.1
2.0t BioPower 2005–2009 B205E I4, E85 or petrol fuelled 1,985 cc 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) at 5,500 rpm 280 N⋅m (207 lbf⋅ft) at 1,800 rpm 8.5 (9.0)
2.3t BioPower 2006–2009 B235E I4, compatible with E85 or petrol 2,290 cc 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) at 5,500 rpm 310 N⋅m (229 lbf⋅ft) at 1,800 rpm 7.9 (8.5)
2.3t (early) 1998–2001 B235E I4, petrol-powered 2,290 cc 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) at 5,500 rpm 280 N⋅m (207 lbf⋅ft) at 1,800 rpm 8.7 (9.3)

|- |2.3t (later)||2002–2009 ||B235E ||I4, petrol ||2,290 cc || 185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp) at 5,500 rpm || 280 N⋅m (207 lbf⋅ft) at 1,800 rpm ||7.9 (8.5) |- |2.3T ||2004–2005 ||B235L ||I4, petrol ||2,290 cc || 220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp) at 5,500 rpm || 310 N⋅m (229 lbf⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm ||7.9 (8.5) |- |3.0 V6 ||1998–2003 ||B308E ||V6, petrol ||2,962 cc || 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) at 5,000 rpm || 310 N⋅m (229 lbf⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm ||8.3 (auto) |- |Aero (first generation) ||1999–2001 ||B235R ||I4, petrol ||2,290 cc || 230 PS (169 kW; 227 hp) at 5,500 rpm || 370 N⋅m (273 lbf⋅ft) at 1,900 rpm ||6.9 |- |Aero (second generation) ||2002–2005 ||B235R ||I4, petrol ||2,290 cc || 250 PS (184 kW; 247 hp) at 5,300 rpm || 370 N⋅m (273 lbf⋅ft) at 1,900 rpm ||6.9 (8.2) |- |2.3T/Aero ||2006–2009 ||B235R ||I4, petrol ||2,290 cc || 260 PS (191 kW; 256 hp) at 5,300 rpm || 370 N⋅m (273 lbf⋅ft) at 1,900 rpm ||6.5 |- |Aero Hirsch (early) ||2002–2005 ||B235R ||I4, petrol ||2,290 cc || 305 PS (224 kW; 301 hp) at 5,300 rpm || 400 N⋅m (295 lbf⋅ft) at 1,900 rpm ||6.3 |- |Aero Hirsch (later) ||2006–2009 ||B235R ||I4, petrol ||2,290 cc || 310 PS (228 kW; 306 hp) at 5,300 rpm || 410 N⋅m (302 lbf⋅ft) at 1,900 rpm ||6.0 |}


Transmissions

The 9-5 was equipped with an Aisin AW 4-speed automatic transmission (50-42LE), designated by Saab as FA47, from 1997 to 2001. After this period, the older four-speed automatic was superseded by a newer five-speed Aisin AW automatic unit. Standard models and the Aero came fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard equipment.

E85

In 2005, Saab introduced an upgraded version of the 2.0 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine for the European market alongside the 2006 9-5 model. Marketed as the 2.0t BioPower, this engine was optimized to operate on E85 ethanol fuel, delivering 180 PS (178 hp; 132 kW) at 5,500 rpm. Additionally, a 2.3T BioPower variant became available starting in 2007 and was also launched in Australia.

E100

Saab unveiled the 9-5 E100 Concept in 2007, based on the turbocharged 2.0 engine and designed to run on pure ethanol fuel (E100). The concept claimed an output of 300 PS (296 hp; 221 kW) alongside 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) of torque, achieved through increased boost pressure and a higher compression ratio.

Safety

The Saab 9-5 was among the first to feature Saab's Active Head Restraints (SAHR), which move upward and forward during rear impacts to reduce the risk of whiplash. This innovation earned safety and technology accolades in countries including Australia, Denmark, and the United Kingdom. The vehicle also incorporated advanced side-impact protection early on.

From its initial release, the front seats included torso airbags and head airbags—an uncommon feature for vehicles of the late 1990s. The fundamental structure comprised a strong passenger safety cage, along with front and rear deformation zones, reinforced door pillars, and door posts. Notably, the "Pendulum B-Pillar" design integrated high-strength low-alloy steel at chest and head levels with tailored blank steel near the floorpan to channel collision forces downward. According to testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), this design effectively shielded occupants during side impacts even without curtain or rear side airbags. Starting in 2002, electronic stability control (ESP) became standard equipment.

Another distinctive Saab feature was the "Night Panel", which allowed drivers to dim all instrument panel lighting except for critical information, minimizing distractions during nighttime driving. When activated, only essential data such as current speed remained illuminated unless alerts like low fuel or engine overheating were triggered.

In the United States market, OnStar was offered as an option and became standard on select 9-5 models beginning in 2001.

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Comfort

Over the years, the 9-5 offered a range of comfort amenities, available either as standard equipment or optional extras.

Early versions commonly included cassette players mounted on the dashboard, while many models came equipped with CD changers as standard. Additionally, in-dash satellite navigation systems were offered as an option. Factory-installed phone kits were also available for select trims.

Several variants featured leather or partial leather seating surfaces, with heated seats provided for both front and rear occupants. Ventilated seats were an optional feature on certain models.

Cruise control was offered across multiple versions, and high-end trims came equipped with xenon headlights as standard.

Aero

The sport-oriented 9-5 variant is known as the Aero. Initially introduced in 2000, the earliest models—sometimes called the 'HOT' (High Output Turbo) Aero—were powered by a 2.3T B235R engine. This engine delivered substantial torque and acceleration performance that surpassed the Porsche 911 Turbo in the 40 to 90 mph range. Although originally rated at 230 PS, Saab later acknowledged this figure was conservative; manual transmission versions produced 250 PS along with increased torque. The flagship Aero included a comprehensive list of standard features, sport-tuned suspension, and body side moldings. From 2002 onward, a 250 PS 2.3-liter turbocharged engine became standard, offering enhanced torque beyond 4,500 rpm. Between 2002 and 2005, all Aero models shared the same engine configuration and management system, with only minor ECU remapping differentiating model years. In its final production years, the top-tier 9-5 delivered 260 PS and 350 Nm of torque, with manual transmission variants featuring a 20-second overboost function that increased torque to 370 Nm.

Between 2006 and 2010, the B235R engine producing 260 PS powered both the 2.3T and Aero trims. In 2006, only the 2.3T badge was used; however, customers could add features typically exclusive to the Aero through a "Sport Package." Starting in 2007, Saab reintroduced the Aero badge on the trunk lid to differentiate it from regular 2.3T models. Most Aero-exclusive features—such as sport-tuned suspension, two-tone leather upholstery, "Anniversary" wheels, and brushed aluminum interior accents—were not available on the standard 2.3T.

Police car

File:Swedish police car.jpg
Saab 9–5 used by the Swedish Police

The Saab 9-5 served as both marked patrol cars and undercover vehicles in various regions of Sweden alongside the Volvo V70. Several UK police forces incorporated the 9-5 into their fleets, predominantly in Aero trim. The city of Aspen, Colorado utilized Saabs for patrol duties from the early 1970s until 2005 when they transitioned to Volvo XC90s. Similarly, Vail, Colorado employed Saabs from 1980 until budget constraints led to their replacement with Ford Explorers in 2005.

In Edinburgh, Scotland, Lothian and Borders Police introduced three Saab 9-5 Aero 2.3T patrol vehicles in 2006 as part of their fleet of approximately 580 units. These cars were modified to police specifications by Saab’s Special Vehicles Operation (SVO) in Papworth, Cambridgeshire. While disguised externally as Linear Sport models for undercover use, they retained the powerful 260 hp Aero drivetrain.

In Poland’s Płock region, an unmarked Saab 9-5 is deployed as a video-pursuit vehicle for traffic enforcement purposes.

Gallery

Second generation (YS3G, 2010–2012)

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The second-generation Saab 9-5, constructed on the GM Epsilon II platform, was unveiled at the September 2009 Frankfurt International Auto Show. Its introduction to the North American market occurred in October of the same year at the South Florida Auto Show held in Miami.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The initial pre-production model of this generation emerged from the production line in Trollhättan on November 24, 2009.

Following the January 26, 2010 announcement of Saab's acquisition by Spyker, manufacturing of the new-generation Saab 9-5 commenced at the Trollhättan facility. Mass production started in April of that year, with vehicles reaching dealerships by June 19, 2010.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name At the Geneva Motor Show#2011, Saab revealed a wagon version named "SportCombi".Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The Saab 9-5 Sedan equipped with the 2.8 V6 Turbo engine received the "Car of the Year" distinction in Singapore from "Wheels Asia".Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name

Production ceased in March of 2011 when operations at Trollhättan halted due to financial liquidity challenges.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The total output for this second generation reached approximately 11,280 units.

Although several prototypes and some pre-production SportCombis were developed, the official SportCombi did not enter full-scale manufacturing before Saab declared bankruptcy in December of that year. Plans had also been made for a liftback variant of the model and a new crossover called the "9-5X",Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad nameCite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name alongside an anticipated mid-cycle refresh scheduled around mid-2014.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name

Trim levels

Available trim and equipment packages differ depending on the market.

For the United States, the Saab 9-5 was offered in Turbo4, Turbo4 Premium, Turbo6 XWD, and Aero trims. The Turbo4 variants featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and included amenities such as power-adjustable seats for both driver and passenger, leather upholstery, five-spoke alloy wheels, fog lights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The Turbo4 Premium added enhancements like a panoramic sunroof, headlamp washers, Saab parking sensors, keyless entry and ignition, memory settings for seats, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Turbo6 XWD trim was equipped with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine paired with an all-wheel-drive system. At the top of the range, the Aero trim offered 18-inch 15-spoke “Rotor” alloy wheels, leather-trimmed sports seats, a multi-color central information display, Bi-Xenon SmartBeam headlights, dark titanium-effect interior accents, aluminum sports pedals, a suspension system tuned for sportiness with real-time damping control, as well as distinctive Aero exterior styling elements.

In the United Kingdom for the 2012 model year, the lineup consisted of Vector SE and Aero trims. The earlier base models Linear and Vector were consolidated into the Vector SE trim.

In Australia, the base Linear trim was not available; only Vector and Aero trims were offered.

Engines

North American markets had engine options limited to either a turbocharged V6 or an Ecotec inline-four. Elsewhere, an optional turbocharged diesel inline-four was also offered. Hirsch Performance—the sole factory-sanctioned tuner for Saab—provided performance upgrades that raised the V6 engine’s output from 296 hp to 330 hp and boosted the inline-four’s power from 220 hp to 260 hp.

Model Years Engine Engine type Displ. Max. power Max. torque 0–100 km/h
(0–62 mph) (seconds) 		Top speed
(FWD) 		Fuel cons.
(Manual) 		Template:CO2 emission
(g/km)
1.6T 2011–2012 Z16LET I4, petrol 1,598 cc 180 hp (134 kW; 182 PS) at 5,500 rpm 230 N⋅m (170 lbf⋅ft) at 2,200 rpm 9.5 220 km/h
(137 mph) 		7.8 L/100 km
(36 mpg‑imp) 		179
2.0T 2010–2012 A20NHT I4, petrol 1,998 cc 220 hp (164 kW; 223 PS) at 5,300 rpm 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm 7.9 240 km/h
(149 mph) 		8.2 L/100 km
(34 mpg‑imp) 		189
2.8T 2010–2012 A28NER V6, petrol 2,792 cc 296 hp (221 kW; 300 PS) at 5,500 rpm 400 N⋅m (295 lbf⋅ft) at 2,000 rpm 6.9 250 km/h
(155 mph) 		8.8 L/100 km
(32 mpg‑imp) 		244
2.0T BioPower 2011–2012 A20NFT I4, E85 or petrol 1,998 cc 220 hp (164 kW; 223 PS) at 5,300 rpm 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm 7.9 240 km/h
(149 mph) 		11.1 L/100 km
(25 mpg‑imp) 		189
2.0TiD 2010–2012 GM Family B I4, diesel 1,956 cc 158 hp (118 kW; 160 PS) at 4,000 rpm 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft) at 1,750 rpm 10.1 215 km/h
(134 mph) 		5.3 L/100 km
(53 mpg‑imp) 		139
2.0TTiD 2011–2012 GM Family B I4, diesel 1,956 cc 187 hp (139 kW; 190 PS) at 4,000 rpm 400 N⋅m (295 lbf⋅ft) at 1,750 rpm 8.8 230 km/h
(143 mph) 		6.0 L/100 km
(47 mpg‑imp) 		159


Transmissions and drivetrain configurations

Petrol engines Drive layout
Model Production Years Standard Transmission Optional Transmission Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive
1.6T 2011–2012 6-speed manual — Yes No
2.0T 2010–2012 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic Yes Yes
2.8T 2010–2012 6-speed automatic — No Yes
BioPower engines Drive layout
Model Production Years Standard Transmission Optional Transmission Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive
2.0T 2010–2012 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic Yes Yes
Diesel engines Drive layout
Model Production Years Standard Transmission Optional Transmission Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive
2.0TiD 2010–2012 6-speed manual 6-speed automatic Yes No
2.0TTiD 2010–2012 6-speed manual — Yes Yes

Safety

Template:Euro NCAP

Critiques

  • Auto Express Template:Rating[2]
    Advantages: roomy interior, unique design, well-equipped.
    Disadvantages: weak resale values, uninspiring driving experience, subpar cabin materials.
  • Auto Trader Template:Rating[3]
    Strengths: efficient fuel consumption with low Template:CO2, distinctive styling, spacious interior.
    Weaknesses: interior finish below expectations, overshadowed by competitors, poor retention of value.
  • Parker's Template:Rating[4]
    Positives: generous standard equipment, advanced technology, driver comfort, practical design.
    Negatives: lacks sporty appeal, does not match the brand prestige of German rivals.
  • The AA Template:Rating[5]
    Highlights: classic Saab styling refreshed for today; signature comfortable seats; excellent interior space, particularly rear legroom; competitive pricing for mainstream trims.
    Caveats: minimalist design may appear bland to some; lacks the sporty edge of Jaguar XF; clean cabin layout appreciated but material quality could improve; automatic transmission responsiveness could be enhanced.

Gallery

References

  1. ↑ Performance figures refer to Sport Sedan with manual transmission, with Sport Combi times shown in parentheses. Automatic transmission times are not included but typically add 1–2 seconds.
  2. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  3. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  4. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  5. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).

Bibliography

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External links

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