2003 Saab 9-5: Road Test
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2003 Saab 9-5 ▼
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- MSRP: $34,335 -$39,745
- Invoice: $32,289 -$37,173
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Our road test for the 2003 Saab 9-5 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Saab 9-5 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Saab 9-5, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Saab 9-5 help you decide if a 2003 Saab 9-5 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6.5 |
Linear and Aero suffer some turbo lag--a delay in throttle response--at low speeds, but move out with authority as revs build. The V6 Arc has a more-progressive power delivery. Automatic transmission sometimes slow to downshift, even when using the steering-wheel shift paddles, which can be difficult to locate during hand-over-hand turning.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.5 |
Test Linear sedan averaged 22 mpg. Test Arc wagon averaged 22.1 mpg. Test Aero sedan averaged 22.4 in mostly highway driving. Saab recommends premium fuel for all 9-5s.
RIDE QUALITY
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 6 | 7.1 |
Aero's sport suspension rides stiffly; other 9-5s iron out broken pavement and thumpy freeways alike with a firm ride, isolating all but the worst disturbances.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6.7 |
Secure and predictable, despite more body lean in fast cornering than we prefer. Low-profile tires on Aero and optional on others have poor wet-weather traction and expose traction-control system's propensity to cut back engine power, which makes it tricky to cross slippery intersections. Braking is swift, powerful, consistent, though with too much nosedive in test Linear wagon. Steering has a natural feel and only Aero suffers minor torque steer--pulling to the side under full acceleration.
QUIETNESS
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.8 |
Moderate wind and low engine noise add to long-distance comfort, though tire roar intrudes except on glassy asphalt. Standard hard cargo-area cover helps muffle wagon exhaust and rear-tire sounds.
CONTROLS
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.6 |
Automatic climate controls mounted too low for easy use, and some testers found the buttons confusing. Power door lock and window switches inconveniently located on console, along with ignition switch. Manual transmission must be in reverse before ignition key can be removed. Interior materials suit the price.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Plenty of room. Substantial, supportive seats. Manual tilt/telescope steering wheel is standard. Available ventilated front seats cooled from within by small fans; fans are audible, though the system is quite effective on hot days.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
Adequate head room, but knee clearance tight if front seats are pushed far back. Footwells can get cramped depending on front-seat position, and some testers find front seat tracks intrusive. Rear bench nicely contoured and supportive, but too narrow for three large adults.
CARGO ROOM
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 5 | 3.9 |
Large trunk has a pass-through and flat floor. Wagon's cargo bay is cavernous, with neat under-floor storage and handy optional roll-out load floor. All models have split folding rear seatbacks.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 2 | 5.7 |
Few rivals offer a wagon body style, but the 9-5 is among the oldest designs in the near-luxury class. Japanese rivals beat it for reliability and resale value, and Linears and Aeros are pricey 4-cyl cars. The V6 Arc emerges as the best all-around model in a line that appeals to a dwindling body of Saab loyalists.
Total Score
| Linear sdn, man. | Arc wgn | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 63 | 58 | 60.5 |
Total Score: 60
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