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2004 Saab 9-5 Full Review
Date Published: 7/03/08
Also in the 2004 Saab 9-5 Review:
2004 Saab 9-5 Review
Saab's flagship line loses its available V6 engine for 2004. The 9-5 comes in three models: base Linear, luxury-oriented Arc, and sporty Aero. Arc and Aero come in both sedan and station wagon form, Linear as a wagon only. All have a turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cyl engine. Linears have 185 hp, Arcs 220, Aeros 250. A 200-hp turbo V6 previously powered the Arc. Aeros have a sport suspension, plus 17-inch wheels vs. the other models' 16s, though 17s are now optional on Arc. All come with 5-speed manual transmission or optional 5-speed automatic, which can be shifted manually via buttons on the steering-wheel spokes. Standard equipment includes ABS, traction/antiskid control, and front head-and-torso side airbags. Side curtain and rear side airbags are unavailable. All 9-5s have leather upholstery; Arc and Aero have heated front seats, which are optional on Linear. Aero comes standard with OnStar assistance, which is optional on the others. Ventilated front seats are optional on Aero. Wagons do not offer 3rd-row seating.
News
A redesigned 9-5 is apparently still on for 2006. Sedan and wagon body styles will return on one of two GM foundations. The more likely candidate is a much-modified version of the 9-3's Epsilon front-drive platform, but the next 9-5 could also introduce the new Zeta architecture developed by GM's Australian subsidiary, Holden. Though Zeta is designed mainly for larger rear-drive cars, including a future Buick Park Avenue replacement and the next Pontiac GTO, a Saab version would likely have all-wheel drive and a high-power V6, possibly a V8. Upcoming auto show concepts may give a hint of what's in store for Saab showrooms.
2004 Saab 9-5 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Road noise |
| Handling/roadholding | Climate controls |
| Passenger and cargo room | |
| Build quality | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Linear and Aero suffer some turbo lag--a delay in throttle response--at low speeds, but move out with authority as revs build. We have not yet tested an Arc with its 220-hp turbo 4 cyl, but expect it to perform similarly to its siblings. 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.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6.4 |
Linear and Aero suffer some turbo lag--a delay in throttle response--at low speeds, but move out with authority as revs build. We have not yet tested an Arc with its 220-hp turbo 4 cyl, but expect it to perform similarly to its siblings. 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
Test Linear averaged 22 mpg. Test Aero averaged 22.4 in mostly highway driving. Saab recommends premium fuel for all 9-5s.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 4.6 |
Test Linear averaged 22 mpg. Test Aero averaged 22.4 in mostly highway driving. Saab recommends premium fuel for all 9-5s.
Ride Quality
Aero's sport suspension and 17-inch tires produce a stiff ride. Linear irons out broken pavement and thumpy freeways alike with a firm ride, isolating all but the worst disturbances. Arc shares Linear suspension.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 8 | 6 | 7 |
Aero's sport suspension and 17-inch tires produce a stiff ride. Linear irons out broken pavement and thumpy freeways alike with a firm ride, isolating all but the worst disturbances. Arc shares Linear suspension.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Secure and predictable, despite more body lean in fast cornering than we prefer. Aero's 17-inch performance tires 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, but test Aero suffered minor torque steer--pulling to the side under full acceleration.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6.8 |
Secure and predictable, despite more body lean in fast cornering than we prefer. Aero's 17-inch performance tires 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, but test Aero suffered minor torque steer--pulling to the side under full acceleration.
Quietness
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.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 6.7 |
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
Automatic climate controls mounted too low for easy use, and some testers found the buttons confusing. Power door lock and window switches awkwardly located on console, along with ignition switch. Manual transmission must be in reverse before ignition key can be removed. Interior materials suit the price.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Automatic climate controls mounted too low for easy use, and some testers found the buttons confusing. Power door lock and window switches awkwardly 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)
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.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 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)
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.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
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
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.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 4 |
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
Even though Saab is owned by General Motors, the 9-5 retains its Scandinavian flavor. And few competitors offer a wagon body style. But this is among the oldest designs in the near-luxury class--a fact highlighted by the absence of curtain side airbags. These cars are also pricey for 4-cyl automobiles, and Japanese rivals beat Saab for reliability and resale value.
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 3 | 2 | 5.8 |
Even though Saab is owned by General Motors, the 9-5 retains its Scandinavian flavor. And few competitors offer a wagon body style. But this is among the oldest designs in the near-luxury class--a fact highlighted by the absence of curtain side airbags. These cars are also pricey for 4-cyl automobiles, and Japanese rivals beat Saab for reliability and resale value.
Total Score
| Linear wgn, man. | Aero sdn, auto. | Class Average |
| 60 | 57 | 60.8 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 60 | |
| High Score | 71 |
2004 Saab 9-5 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 03/11/2004
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| Linear 4-door wagon | $32,360 | $30,431 | $695 |
|
|
|||
| Arc 4-door sedan | $34,600 | $32,365 | $695 |
|
|
|||
| Arc 4-door wagon | $35,315 | $33,030 | $695 |
|
|
|||
| Aero 4-door sedan | $39,660 | $37,098 | $695 |
|
|
|||
| Aero 4-door wagon | $40,370 | $37,758 | $695 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Linear
Powertrain
2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder 185-horsepower engine, 5-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, front-seat active head restraints, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, daytime running lights, emergency inside trunk release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, power front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, glovebox refrigerator, illuminated visor mirrors, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, remote decklid/fuel-door release, rear wiper/washer (wagon), cargo cover, automatic-off headlights, floormats, theft-deterrent system.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Roof rails (wagon), 215/55VR16 tires, alloy wheels.
Arc adds to Linear:
Powertrain
2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder 220-horsepower engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated front seats, trunk pass-through (sedan), power sunroof, trip computer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Front and rear fog lights, headlight washers.
Aero adds to Arc:
Powertrain
2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder 250-horsepower engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar assistance system w/one-year service, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), tilt-down back-up-aid mirrors, Harman/Kardon sound system, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage-door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: wood interior trim.
Sport suspension, 225/45WR17 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Comfort Pkg.
|
||
|
Linear
|
$1,695
|
$1,526
|
|
Heated front seats, power sunroof, headlight washers.
|
||
|
Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
Linear, Arc
|
$1,495
|
$1,301
|
|
Driver-seat memory, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, universal garage-door opener, Harman/Kardon sound system.
|
||
|
Touring Pkg.
|
||
|
Arc, Aero
|
$795
|
$716
|
|
Rain-sensing wipers, automatic day/night outside mirrors, rear-obstacle-detection system.
|
||
|
Sport Tech Pkg.
|
||
|
Aero
|
$550
|
$495
|
|
Sport seats, carbon-fiber instrument panel, unique interior trim.
|
||
|
Cargo Pkg.
|
||
|
Linear
|
$795
|
$716
|
|
Rear-obstacle-detection system, cargo net.
|
||
|
|
||
Powertrain |
||
|
5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
|
||
|
Aero, Arc, Linear
|
$1,350
|
$1,337
|
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
OnStar assistance system
|
||
|
Linear, Arc
|
$699
|
$629
|
|
Includes one-year service.
|
||
|
Ventilated front seats
|
||
|
Aero
|
$995
|
$866
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Special paint
|
||
|
Aero, Arc, Linear
|
$500
|
$450
|
|
Xenon headlights
|
||
|
Arc, Aero
|
$550
|
$495
|
|
All-Season Wheel Sport Pkg.
|
||
|
Arc
|
$900
|
$810
|
|
Special alloy wheels, 225/45R17 all-season tires.
|
||
|
|
||
2004 Saab 9-5 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Saab 9-5 4-door sedan | Saab 9-5 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.4 | 106.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.1 | 190.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.5 | 70.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.0 | 57.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3470 | 3620 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 15.9 | 73.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | 18.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 | 38.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 | 42.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.6 | 38.2 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.6 | 36.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | Turbocharged dohc I4 | Turbocharged dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.3 /140 | 2.3 /140 | 2.3 /140 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 185 @ 5300 | 220 @ 5300 | 250 @ 5300 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 207 @ 1800 | 228 @ 1900 | 258 @ 1900 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 5-speed manual | 20/30 | 20/30 | 21/29 |
| 5-speed automatic | 19/28 | 19/29 | 19/28 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Saab 9-5 4-door sedan | Saab 9-5 4-door wagon |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 | NA |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 | NA |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 | NA |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6 /unlimited | 10/unlimited on 9-3 Sport Sedan. |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 3/36,000 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Sweden
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Also in the 2004 Saab 9-5 Review:
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