1999-2008 Saab 9-5: Year-to-Year Changes

2000 Saab 9-5: A sporty new Aero sedan joined the lineup for 2000. In addition to an upgraded chassis, the Aero featured lower-body skirting. The Aero used a turbocharged 230-horsepower 4-cylinder engine (from the high-performance 9-3 Viggen), while the SE got a 200-hp, 3.0-liter V6 as standard equipment. That V6 had been an option in 1999, but was no longer available for base models. A power sunroof and traction control now were standard on all versions. Newly optional 17-inch wheels could be installed on base and SE models, to match those on the Aero. Because General Motors owned the Saab company, GM's OnStar emergency/communications system was newly optional.

2001 Saab 9-5: Base models got more power for 2001, as the 2.3-liter engine gained 15 horsepower (now rated at 185). GM's OnStar system moved to the standard-equipment list and added voice-activated phone, Internet-access, and e-mail functions.

2002 Saab 9-5: Styling was revised this year, an antiskid system became available, and a 5-speed automatic transmission replaced the 4-speed unit. Base models now were called Linear, midrange versions were renamed Arc, and the Aero again ranked as the top model--with a 20-horsepower increase. An automatic transmission was standard on the Arc and optional on other models. The antiskid system was standard on the Aero and optional on others. It helped prevent skids in turns by regulating braking and engine power. Xenon headlights also became optional. Front airbag deployment now was affected by occupant size and position.

2003 Saab 9-5: Buttons on the steering-wheel spokes allowed the automatic transmission to be shifted manually.

2004 Saab 9-5: The 9-5 lost the optional 200-hp turbocharged V6 in 2004.

2005 Saab 9-5: Saab's 9-5 gained an available navigation system for 2005.

2006 Saab 9-5: Saab gave its flagship 9-5 line freshened styling and a revised instrument panel for 2006. Linear, Arc, and Aero trim levels were replaced for '06 by models tagged 2.3T and 2.3T Sport, which are available in both sedan and SportCombi wagon body styles.

2007 Saab 9-5: Newly available for '07 was the Anniversary Special Edition with specific 17-inch wheels and unique interior trim.

2008 Saab 9-5: The 2008 Saab 9-5 carried over with no major changes. OnStar assistance and rain-sensing windshield wipers were newly standard on the 2008 Saab 9-5.