Saab 9-5 (2010 – 2011) Review
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Saab 9-5 (2010 – 2011) At A Glance
Distinctive design. Comfortable cabin. Impressive rear passenger room and large boot. Fuel efficient 2.0 TiD engine. Well equipped as standard.
Firm ride. Notchy manual gearbox. Interior doesn't feel as upmarket as it should given the price. Liquidation likely to seriously affect parts supply.
The 9-5 was the most important car the Swedish firm had ever built. Saab had a tough time in recent years. With no new product coming through the Scandanavian manufacturer, under ownership of General Motors, has had to make do with its existing cars while other firms have launched all-new models. The future looked bleak when GM wanted to sell the brand and for a while it seemed like the end for Saab.
However, in 2010 Saab was bought by Dutch high-performance sports car manufacturer, Spyker Cars, securing a hopefully brighter future for the firm. And this is why the 9-5 is such a key car. The old Saab 9-5 soldiered on for 13 years but by the end naturally felt very dated. This new model has much to prove if Saab is to retain its image as a manufacturer of high-quality cars.
The looks are certainly a great start. This is every inch a Saab with its distinctive grille, while the coupe-like shape hides a long body and gives it a very sleek appearance. The rear is just as good with its modern light clusters and sculpted boot. It's not strikingly different from other current saloon car designs, but the smooth shape is in-keeping with traditional Saab styling.
Inside there's a fresh new cabin with some neat touches, while rear passenger space is mightily impressive - as is the boot. Unfortunately some of the quality isn't quite up to the standards you'd expect on a premium saloon, but it feels pretty solid overall. It's also well equipped as standard and there are a host of high-tech options available, including a clever head-up display similar to the one BMW offers.
The engine range isn't huge but includes a decent 2.0 TiD diesel with low CO2 emissions of 139g/km and economy of more than 50mpg, plus there are some rapid turbocharged petrols including a great 2.0T with 220bhp. On the move the Saab is composed with keen steering and very tidy handling so despite a firm ride, it's enjoyable to drive. If this is the future for Saab, it looks very promising indeed. But eventually the end came.
Reviews for Saab 9-5 (2010 – 2011)'s top 3 rivals
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Saab 9-5 (2010 – 2011) handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.6T to 2.8 XWD
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 23–50 mpg
Although the 9-5 heralds a new beginning for Saab, it continues the Saab tradition of using turbocharged engines, which has obvious benefits for performance as well as fuel economy. Plus all use maintenance-free, chain-driven camshafts. It's quite a surprise that there's only one diesel engine though, particularly when most people who choose a car like this tend to spend lots of time on the motorway - ideal conditions for efficient diesels.
The diesel in the 9-5 is a 2.0 TiD unit with 160bhp and 350Nm of torque, giving it plenty of in-gear surge when needed - ideal for safe overtaking and motorway cruising. It's not the quietest of diesels, but it's smooth enough and will average 53.3mpg on the combined cycle while CO2 emissions of 139g/km are impressively low and mean annual car tax is very reasonable. A more powerful 2.0 TTiD with 190bhp is also available.
It's a shame that the six-speed manual gearbox that comes as standard is on the notchy side. It's positive enough but not especially slick and is much happier when it's not being rushed. There's also a six-speed automatic gearbox available with the diesel which works surprisingly well and shifts quickly and smoothly, but with this fitted, CO2 emissions rocket up to 179g/km while economy drops to 41.5mpg.
The petrol engines suit the Saab 9-5 better, starting with the 1.6T. This may seem far too small for a car of this size but thanks to a turbocharger, it produces an impressive 180bhp and covers the 0-62mph sprint in 9.5 seconds. But for more performance the 2.0T is a better choice. It boasts 220bhp and feels very lively with an impressive turn of pace and good torque too, so you don't need to continually change gear as in some larger petrol saloons.
As a result, 0-62mph takes just 7.6 seconds but it's the way it pulls from around 50mph which is really impressive and will be more useful in everyday driving. It uses a twin-scroll turbocharger, which virtually eliminates turbo lag at low engine speeds. The one downside to this engine, however, is economy which is only 33.6mpg while emissions are pretty high too.
This engine is available with the standard front-wheel drive set-up or with Saab's clever XWD all-wheel drive system, that's also used on the Saab 9-3X. This can vary the amount of torque between the front and rear wheels so it means better traction in wet or slippery conditions and is ideal if you intend to use the 9-5 for towing (across wet fields for example).
Standard front-wheel drive versions of the Saab 9-5 feel pretty planted to the road, although hard acceleration will see the front end become light and start to squirm a little. But overall, it's a very comfortable and relaxing car to drive with precise controls. The clutch is light and the throttle pedal responsive but what's most surprising is how precise the steering is. It only requires fairly small inputs to change direction, so tackling tight corners is enjoyable, helped by the fact the Saab 9-5 handles very well with limited body roll.
The 9-5 is also the first Saab to come with real time damping control through Saab DriveSense, which includes adjustments that help the car adapt to the way it is being driven. In addition to the default Intelligent mode, two further settings, Sport and Comfort, can be selected via a rotary knob next to the gear shift. The sport mode sharpens the throttle, reduces the level of power steering assistance and raises the gear shifting points on the automatic gearbox.
However, the main gripe is the firm ride. There is a sport chassis option (standard with Saab XWD and optional with front-wheel drive models) which includes a 10mm lower ride height, a stiffer front anti-roll bar, stiffer springs and dampers, and greater steering feel. It certainly gives the 9-5 a more driver-focussed feel, but it can be very bumpy on uneven surfaces and really struggles on poorly maintained country roads.
Even the standard Saab 9-5 without this chassis feels on the firm side and rarely rides smoothly, with a very busy feeling on most roads. At higher speeds there's always noticeable tyre noise, although it's very quiet in every other respect.
The top engine in the line-up is the 2.8T - a V6 petrol with 300bhp and 400Nm of torque, giving it great performance. It comes with XWD as standard along with the six-speed automatic gearbox, highlighting its top-of-the-range position. It sounds great on start-up with a deep rumble, while on the move you're always aware this is a powerful V6 unit. The sprint from 0-62mph takes just 6.9 seconds and it's a really enjoyable engine to drive. Of course, fuel economy isn't a strong point as you'd expect, with an average of just 24.8mpg.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6T | 36 mpg | 9.5 s | 178 g/km |
| 2.0 TiD | 53 mpg | 9.9 s | 125 g/km |
| 2.0 TiD Automatic | 42 mpg | 10.1 s | 171 g/km |
| 2.0 TTiD | 47 mpg | 8.8 s | 142 g/km |
| 2.0 TTiD XWD | 42 mpg | 9.2 s | 170 g/km |
| 2.0T | 34 mpg | 7.9 s | 181 g/km |
| 2.0T Automatic | 31 mpg | 8.5 s | 204 g/km |
| 2.0T XWD | 32 mpg | 8.0 s | 196 g/km |
| 2.0T XWD Automatic | 29 mpg | 8.8 s | 215 g/km |
| 2.8 XWD | 27 mpg | 6.9 s | 234 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Saab 9-5 (2010 – 2011)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
89%
Real MPG
23–50 mpg
MPGs submitted
44
Saab 9-5 (2010 – 2011) interior
- Boot space is 515 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 5008 mm |
| Width | 1868 mm |
| Height | 1467 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2837 mm |
As with the exterior of this fresh Saab 9-5, the interior also manages to capture some of the traditional Saab design features, while still appearing modern. Unfortunately it's not quite as sleek as the outside and it doesn't exude that high quality and sophisticated feel that you'd expect on a premium saloon of this price.
It's very spacious though and nowhere is this more evident than in the back. Compared to the previous 9-5, this model has a longer wheelbase which means an extra 58mm of legroom added on to what was already a generous space. Even with the front seats slid all the way back, there's still masses of legroom for people sitting in the back plus impressive headroom. So although it doesn't feel quite as spacious as the Skoda Superb, it's certainly not far behind.
The boot is huge too with 515 litres of luggage space - that's more than the considerably larger BMW 7 Series, plus the boot opening is wide and tall, so getting heavy suitcases in and out isn't a problem. There's a 60/40 split folding seatback which includes a load-through 'ski hatch' for longer items. Such as skis...
It's from behind the wheel that the Saab 9-5 doesn't feel quite as impressive. The quality of the materials used is fairly good, but some of the plastics don't feel like they belong in a premium car and the layout is fairly ordinary, especially when you compare it to that other Scandanavian manufacturer, Volvo, which seems to do minimalist and stylish interiors so well.
Some of the fit and finish is a little underwhelming too and on the cars we've driven, there have been various squeeks and rattles when on the move. Not what you'd want if you are to spend long hours behind the wheel. It's not all negative though. The deeply recessed instruments are very neat with green needles and stylish white back-lit dials, plus they include a rolling 'altimeter' speed read-out - a reference to Saab's aviation heritage.
The swooping central console is a nice piece of design and thanks to an electronic parking brake, it looks neat and uncluttered. The stereo and ventilation controls are easy to use and clearly laid out and although the main dash seems a little button heavy, it works well. There's a large colour screen (in fact one of the largest we've seen in a car) that displays the stereo and (if fitted) the satellite navigation display.
One high-tech option is the digital head-up display - or HUD as it's known. This projects the speed (as well as revs, navigation instructions and warning mesages if you want it to) onto the windscreen. It means you don't have to take your eyes of the road and it's a useful continual reminder of your precise speed. It's shown as a virtual image, seemingly about two meters ahead, within the driver's natural eye focus.
The display is controlled and adjusted via two switches, allowing you to change the brightness and move it up and down. It's a similar option to the one offered by BMW on many of its models, but the Saab one struggles in bright sunshine. Light reflects off the panel that is projecting the display, making it very hard to read and more of a distraction than anything useful.
Equipment from launch (July 2010):
Linear
The entry-level Saab 9-5 specification comes with a keyless start/stop button, an electric parking brake, six-way adjustable driver and four-way adjustable passenger seat, dual-zone climate control, a seven-speaker audio system with an AUX-in socket, a leather steering wheel and a text information display. Inside, the upper andlower instrument panel, door cappings and decor trim are in Jet Black, with a choice of Jet Black or Parchment fabric seat upholstery, complemented by door inserts and armrests in a light or dark color.
Vector
This adds front seat squab storage pouches, steering wheel audio and cruise controls, an adjustable front arm-rest, cruise control, ambient interior lighting, a nine-speaker audio system with a USB connection and a graphic information display. The interior comes in a choice of Dark Pewter with Jet Black, or Dark Cocoa with Parchment for the instrument panel and doors, while the decor trim has a brushed metal look. The seats are upholstered with leather bolsters and fabric inserts in Jet Black, Parchment or Shark Grey.
Aero
The top model comes with electrically adjustable and heated front seats with an extending under-thigh support while the interior is further distinguished by a full color information display and an 'Aero' embossed, flat-bottomed sports steering wheel with a perforated leather grip. There is also an all-leather interior with a unique Clear Zone finish inserted in the wraparound instrument panel. The rest of the front fascia and door trims are in Jet Black with dark, bushed metal decor trim.
Saab 9-5 (2010 – 2011) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 5008 mm |
| Width | 1868 mm |
| Height | 1467 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2837 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1805–2065 kg |
| Boot Space | 515 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 18000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £26,995–£37,995 |
| Insurance Groups | 24–38 |
| Road Tax Bands | D–L |
| Official MPG | 26.6–53.2 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Aero 2.0 TTiD 4dr | £30,995 | 47.1 mpg | 8.8 s |
| Aero 2.0 TTiD XWD 4dr | £33,285 | 42.2 mpg | 9.2 s |
| Aero 2.0T 4dr | £31,180 | 34.4 mpg | 7.9 s |
| Aero 2.0T Auto 4dr | £32,825 | 31.0 mpg | 8.5 s |
| Aero 2.0T XWD 4dr | £33,465 | 32.1 mpg | 8.0 s |
| Aero 2.0T XWD Auto 4dr | £34,980 | 28.5 mpg | 8.8 s |
| Aero 2.8T XWD 4dr Auto | £37,995 | 26.6 mpg | 6.9 s |
| Vector SE 1.6T 4dr | £27,275 | 36.2 mpg | 9.5 s |
| Vector SE 2.0 TiD 4dr | £26,995 | 53.2 mpg | 9.9 s |
| Vector SE 2.0 TiD Auto 4dr | £28,640 | 41.5 mpg | 10.1 s |
| Vector SE 2.0 TTiD 4dr | £28,495 | 47.1 mpg | 8.8 s |
| Vector SE 2.0 TTiD XWD 4dr | £30,785 | 42.2 mpg | 9.2 s |
| Vector SE 2.0T 4dr | £28,680 | 34.4 mpg | 7.9 s |
| Vector SE 2.0T Auto 4dr | £30,325 | 31.0 mpg | 8.5 s |
| Vector SE 2.0T XWD 4dr | £30,965 | 32.1 mpg | 8.0 s |
| Vector SE 2.0T XWD Auto 4dr | £32,480 | 28.5 mpg | 8.8 s |
Model History
September 2009
The all-new SAAB 9-5 was announced at the 2009 Frankfurt International Motor Show and high-tech features include an aircraft-inspired head-up information display, adaptive headlights, adaptive cruise control, Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control, keyless entry and starting and Saab XWD with eLSD.
There's an all-turbo powertrain line-up with a choice of three fuels - petrol, diesel and E85 bioethanol. With diesel power, the new 9-5 offers CO2 emissions as low as 139g/km.
Inside, compared to its predecessor, legroom and shoulder width are increased both front and rear while the driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab. A deep centre console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by a ventilation zone. There are deeply recessed main dials include a rolling altimeter speed read-out, a reference to Saabs aviation heritage from the Aero X concept.
The driver displays, including the optional head-up display (HUD) in the windscreen, are illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance. The cars ignition, now a start/stop button, remains between the front seats, next to the gear shift.
Infotainment choices include a top-of-the-line Harman Kardon 5.1 channel surround sound audio system and an 8-inch colour touch screen navigation system with hard disk storage for map data and 10GB for MP3 music files. A large centre console provides storage and connections for several portable devices through USB and 3.5mm AUX ports alongside a 12V power outlet.
Rear passengers can access their own audio or watch a DVD. An pptional rear seat entertainment unit in the back of the centre console accommodates audio controls and folding viewing screens are installed in the backs of the front seats. Wireless headphones are provided for listening and viewing.
At launch, the four-cylinder diesel comprises a 160bhp, 2.0-litre turbo engine with CO2 emissions of just 139g/km and the 2.0-litre petrol turbo engine develops 220bhp. A top-of-the-line 2.8 V6 turbo, generating 300bhp and 400Nm of torque, is offered exclusively with Saab XWD. Shortly after launch, a 1.6-litre petrol turbo with 180bhp will be introduced, together with a 2.0-litre BioPower E85 engine. All transmissions will be six-speed.
March 2010
The full new 9-5 model range pricing in the UK is as follows:
| Trim | Fuel | Engine | On-the-Road |
| Vector SE | Diesel | 2.0TiD 160PS | £26,495 |
| 2.0TTiD 190PS MY11* | £28,495 | ||
| Petrol | 1.6T 180PS MY11 | £26,695 | |
| 2.0T 220PS | £28,195 | ||
| Aero | Diesel | 2.0TTiD 190PS MY11 | £31,495 |
| Petrol | 2.0T 220PS | £31,195 | |
| 2.8T 300PS | £37,995 |
September 2010
Just two months after its launch, Saab added new engines to the range. The new, more powerful, twin turbo diesel engine generates torque of 400Nm from just 1750rpm, in addition to maximum power of 190bhp. The result is 0-62mph in under nine seconds. Projected combined cycle fuel consumption of 47.1 mpg and CO2 emissions of 159 g/km are good too, keeping the 2.0TTiD below the 160g/km write down threshold for company car buyers.
The sequential, twin turbocharging system uses two turbochargers of different sizes with by-pass valves that direct the exhaust gas stream between the two turbines. At low engine speeds, the small turbocharger supplies boost pressure independent of engine load. At intermediate engine speeds under higher loads, both the small and large turbochargers provide boost pressure; while at high engine speeds and load, only the large turbocharger is engaged.
This arrangement provides the driver with the ‘best of both worlds': good, instant torque at low engine speeds - via the low-inertia small turbo - and strong, top-end power at higher engine speeds when the large turbo is engaged.
The 2.0TTiD engine is available in Vector SE and Aero specification and can be specified with cross wheel drive (XWD), combining diesel power for the first time with Saab's advanced all-wheel-drive system. All variants are equipped as standard with Saab's sophisticated linked H-arm rear suspension system. This system uses double isolated sub-frame mountings for greater ride comfort, and also reduces vibration entering the cabin and further improves roadholding.
The 1.6T engine with 180bhp has torque of 230Nm from 2200 rpm to 5500 rpm (including an ‘overboost' function), which enables 0-62mph acceleration in 9.5 seconds. Combined cycle fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are 36.2 mpg and 179 g/km respectively. The 1.6T is available in Vector SE specification with front wheel drive and manual transmission.
December 2010
Saab GB announced a number of specification upgrades for the new 9-5 Vector SE models with immediate effect. All MY11 Saab 9-5 Vector SE models are now fitted with leather trimmed seats as standard, replacing the previous leather and textile interior trim. In addition, the 17 inch Blade alloy wheels are replaced with 18 inch Carve alloy wheels, improving the aesthetic appeal of the car. Prices remain unchanged.
Saab GB has also made an important change to the chassis configuration for all 2.0-litre TiD 160PS models equipped with manual transmission. The previous sport chassis fitted as standard has now been replaced with a revised comfort chassis specification. This chassis change in combination with the change to 18" alloy wheels improves the overall dynamic behaviour of the vehicle.
Jonathan Nash, Saab GB Managing Director, said: "These improvements are the result of feedback from the UK automotive media. The improved driving characteristics address issues related to ride comfort on UK roads. The fact that the engineering team have managed to make the changes without affecting the impressive CO 2 emissions of just 139g/km for the manual 2.0-litre TiD 160PS car show that the small independent Saab engineering team can respond very quickly to market requirements. Coming so soon after the launch of the MY11 9-3 1.9-litre TTiD engine range (all manual saloons emit just 119g/km) shows that Saab are rapidly developing a leadership position in the field of high performance vehicles with low CO 2 emissions."
June 2011
Improvement for 2012
- Versatile: New 9-5 SportWagon broadens customer appeal
- Efficient: All 9-5 engines offer reduced CO 2 and improved fuel consumption
- Fun-to-drive: Chassis improvements developed on UK roads
- Stylish: New-look cabin décor
- Enhanced Specification: Satellite navigation and digital radio fitted as standard
The Saab 9-5 range is substantially extended and improved for Model Year 2012 by the introduction of the recently announced SportWagon and a series of enhancements, including further reducedemissions for all engines.
The much awaited SportWagon adds five-door versatility to the acclaimed attributes of the 9-5 Saloon, providing a distinctive, alternative choice for premium wagon customers. It is expected to become a major player in a vehicle segment where Saab, with its tradition for designing sporty but practical vehicles, has previously enjoyed sales volumes even higher than saloon levels.
Both the 9-5 Saloon and the SportWagon benefit from more efficient diesel and petrol engines, all of which deliver reducedemissions and improved fuel consumption. Refinements include a host of fine-tuning measures and the introduction of Start/Stop functionality. Emissions are reduced on average across the range by 4.7% percent.
Saab chassis engineers have also made the latest 9-5 range even more fun to drive. Extensive testing and development work on UK roads has achieved greater ride refinement, particularly on rough surfaces. Inside, the spacious cabin is given a new look with the addition of metallic-like trim finishes for both Vector SE and Aero variants. Satellite navigation and digital radio (DAB) also become standard on all models.
The order book for the latest 9-5 range is now open with customer deliveries commencing in Autumn 2011. The all-turbo powertrain line-up, with a choice of two diesel and three petrol engines, provides a power bandwith from 160 hp to 300 hp.
A series of fine-tuning measures have improved the efficiency of all 9-5 engines, delivering an average CO2reduction and fuel consumption improvement of 4.7%. To encourage economical driving, a gear shift indicator is now fitted as standard in the main instrument display for all manual transmission variants.
With projectedemissions of just 125g/km (Saloon) and 128g/km (SportWagon), the 160 hp, 2.0-litre TiD engine with manual transmission now delivers outstanding efficiency. They qualify for zero-rated excise duty and benefit-in-kind company car taxation of only 18 percent.
In combination with manual transmission, this engine features Start/Stop functionality as standard. It automatically stops running when neutral is selected and the clutch is released, and restarts when the clutch pedal is pressed to engage gear.
The standard chassis for Vector SE models now features improved ride and handling qualities following a development programme by Saab test drivers across challenging UK road conditions. The suspension adopts revised front spring rates, damper settings and bushings.
The Aero chassis has also been upgraded with the fully adaptive DriveSense function, featuring real-time damping control and variable effort hydraulic power steering, now fitted as standard. Advanced HiPer strut, independent steering axis, front suspension and multi-link H-arm rear suspension also becomes standard for all Aero variants. Saab XWD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system, now includes an electronic, limited-slip differential (eLSD) as standard on Aero XWD models.
Improvements for Model Year 2012 also extend to the 9-5’s cabin with generous equipment levels and new cabin décor trims. All variants are now fitted as standard with a DAB digital radio and satellite navigation, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen and hard disc storage for map data. Vector SE models also gain a multi-colour main instrument display.
Cabin ambience is further improved with the introduction of new dashboard fascia decor. Vector SE interior features a ‘brushed metal’ look for the main instrument panel, which is complemented by a ‘black pearl’ finish for the centre console and door trims. Aero models are distinguished by a ‘mesh metal’ effect for the instrument panel and door trims, while featuring a ‘black pearl’ centre console finish.
To improve rearward vision when parking, a rear view camera is offered as an option. It is mounted above the rear number plate and an image is shown on the 8-inch colour screen in the main instrument panel.
A state-of-the-art Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) function is also available in combination with automatic transmission and a Head-Up Display (HUD). It offers more relaxing and less stressful driving, particularly in slow-moving, congested traffic conditions.
ACC uses a radar system mounted behind the front grille then automatically adjusts the selected speed to maintain a safe gap to the vehicle on the road ahead. Full distance control is provided from 112 mph (where legally permitted) down to a standstill. Should the vehicle in front come to a complete stop, ACC is re-engaged by a short push on accelerator pedal. A Following Distance Indicator (FDI) showsthe distance to the vehicle in front, and Forward Collision Alert (FCA) provides a warning in the main information display and the HUD if the vehicle ahead is too close.
What to watch out for
Report of satnav of 30k mile 2010 SAAB 9-5 reverting to Belgium and setting its clock to Belgian time. Can be corrected, but next time car is started reverts to Belgium again. Has the latest mapping update. Might be a problem shared with Vauxhalls/Opels.
08-06-2019:Report of satnav failure on SAAB 9-5. Owner found independent SAABTEC in Glossop who ahve the software to fix it and did so, updating the unit at no charge. Website: https://saabtec.co.uk/ Tel: 01457 867878
