2005-2008 Saab 9-7X: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2005-2008 Saab 9-7X and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger and cargo room
- Acceleration
Cons
- Fuel economy
Vehicle Highlights
Saab's first SUV was a truck-type wagon with standard all-wheel drive and available 6- and 8-cyl engines. General Motors owns Saab, and the 9-7X shared its basic architecture from the GM midsize-SUV family that included the Chevrolet TrailBlazer. It had Saab styling cues, a Saab-style dashboard, and the Swedish brand's traditional center-console-mounted ignition switch. Other differences included Saab-specific steering, suspension, and brake systems. It came in a single body length with seating for five. Powertrains were from GM: a 290-hp inline 6-cyl or 300-hp V8. The V8 featured GM's Active Fuel Management, which deactivated four cylinders while cruising to save fuel. A 4-speed automatic was the sole transmission. The AWD lacked low-range gearing. ABS, antiskid system, and load-leveling suspension were standard. So were curtain side airbags with rollover deployment. Power-adjustable pedals and xenon headlights were standard on V8 versions, available on the 6-cyl. A navigation system was optional.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Saab 9-7X Base V8 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 8 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 61 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2005-2008 Saab 9-7X. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2005-2008 Saab 9-7X.
Year to Year Changes
2006 Saab 9-7X:
2005 was a short model year for the 9-7X, and as such, '06 versions had no changes of note.
2007 Saab 9-7X:
Saab's SUV got no changes of note for 2007.
2008 Saab 9-7X:
The 2008 Saab 9-7X got a new performance-oriented model this year. New for 2008 was the 9-7X Aero, which had a 390-hp 6.0-liter V8. Aeros got sport suspension, specific exterior trim, and 20-inch wheels.
Our road test for the 2005-2008 Saab 9-7X includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2005-2008 Saab 9-7X and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2005-2008 Saab 9-7X is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Like the other GM SUVs with which the 9-7X shares its basic design, the 6-cyl versions provide brisk takeoffs and adequate power. V8 models feel measurably stronger on both counts. The outdated 4-speed automatic has to shift frequently on hilly terrain compared to other competitors' 5- and 6-speed transmissions. Towing capacity is 6500 lb with the V8. A test V8 9-7X averaged 15.0 mpg in mixed driving. While we have not yet tested a 6-cyl 9-7X, similar Chevrolet TrailBlazers averaged 12.9 in mostly city driving, 17.9 in mostly highway driving. Saab's suspension tweaks help the 9-7X feel more composed than its GM stablemates. A standard air-spring rear suspension further irons out imperfections. But, some surfaces still bring out bounciness that's inherent to the 9-7X's basic platform. Also improved over its siblings is steering and handling response. It's not carlike by any stretch, but its steering is nicely weighted and direct in feel. Along with the Buick Rainier, 9-7X has additional sound insulation when compared to GM's other midsize SUVs. As such, it has noticeably less wind and road noise. The V8 engine is smooth and refined, but 6-cyl models roar at full throttle. Interior control layout is similar among all these GM utilities. Saab's treatment is superior, though, with price-appropriate materials. Some elements, such as the lower door panels, retain the cheap plastic feel of the other GM models. The 9-7X's console-mounted ignition switch is a Saab tradition we find unobjectionable. Overall interior comfort is good as well. Head and leg room is fine both front and rear. The seat cushions are on the soft side so they don't provide ideal support. Step-in height is modest, and the available power-adjustable pedals are a boon for shorter drivers. Cargo space is on par with that of other midsize SUVs. The 60/40 split rear seatback folds easily with help from automatic-folding headrests. It opens a large cargo hold. In-cabin storage is quite good, with an array of bins and cubbies.
Value for the Money
Saab's SUV makes the most of its shared architecture. The 9-7X delivers better driving dynamics and interior design than the General Motors SUVs on which it's based. However, compared with the class-leading Acura MDX, Lexus RX, and Volvo XC90, the Saab falls short in drivetrain refinement and cabin materials. Still, Saab's nonconformist attitude may appeal to buyers seeking an SUV that doesn't look like the one in their neighbor's garage.
Saab's SUV makes the most of its shared architecture. The 9-7X delivers better driving dynamics and interior design than the General Motors SUVs on which it's based. However, compared with the class-leading Acura MDX, Lexus RX, and Volvo XC90, the Saab falls short in drivetrain refinement and cabin materials. Still, Saab's nonconformist attitude may appeal to buyers seeking an SUV that doesn't look like the one in their neighbor's garage.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Saab 9-7X Base V8 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 8 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 61 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Saab 9-7X includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Saab 9-7X .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may come on intermittently (and potential engine overheating) due to damage wires to the cooling fan clutch, requiring a replacement wiring harness. (2005)
Electrical problem:
If the OnStar system quits or won't come one (no power), but comes back to life if the fuse is removed for five minutes, the vehicle communications interface module must be replaced or else the problem will recur. (2004-06)
Engine stalling:
The engine may not start or may stall because the tank is empty yet the gauge shows fuel remaining, or the fuel gauge will not show full after refilling due to sulfur corrosion of the fuel level sender. If after treating with Fuel System Cleaner PLUS the problem remains, the sender may need to be replaced. (2005-06)
Oil leak:
Oil may leak from the rear of V8 engines in the area of the rear cover gasket, but is most likely casting porosity of the engine block. (2005-06)
Oil leak:
An oil leak at the back of the 4.2L straight six engine on early-build vehicles may appear to be a rear main seal, but is instead due to porosity in the crankshaft which must be plugged. (2005)
Suspension problems:
The rear suspension may sag requiring recalibration of the rear spring sensors. (2006-07)
Transmission problems:
A low-frequency groaning sound from the rear while making turns is caused by problems with the limited slip differential clutches, requiring replacement of the entire differential case and components. (2005)
Windshield washer:
Windshield washers may not immediately squirt because fluid drains down requiring a check valve in the hose. (2006-07)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $690 |
| Alternator | $830 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $4,230 |
| Brakes | $270 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $1,740 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $3,500 |
| Exhaust System | $800 |
| Radiator | $505 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,800 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $905 |
Our price chart for this generation Saab 9-7X details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| 9-7X | $24,000-27,000 | $22,300-25,100 | $15,600-17,600 |
| 2007 | |||
| 9-7X | $19,500-22,000 | $17,900-20,200 | $12,700-14,300 |
| 2006 | |||
| 9-7X | $16,000-18,000 | $14,600-16,400 | $10,200-11,500 |
| 2005 | |||
| 9-7X | $13,500-15,200 | $12,300-13,800 | $8,000-9,000 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Saab 9-7X include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door wagon | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 113.0 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 193.2 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 75.4 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 68.5 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4770 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 81.0 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 22.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.2 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.4 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.6 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.1 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Saab's first SUV had a choice of two engines, both shared with GM's other midsize SUVs: the Buick Rainier, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, and Isuzu Ascender. The 6-cyl models had a 291-hp 4.2-liter inline six. V8 versions had a 300-hp 5.3-liter with GM's Active Fuel Management. The only transmission available was a 4-speed automatic. New for 2008 was the 9-7X Aero, which had a 390-hp 6.0-liter V8.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I6 | 4.2 / 256 | 291 | 277 | 4-speed automatic: 15/21 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V8 | 5.3 / 325 | 300 | 330 | 4-speed automatic: 15/20 | 4-speed automatic: 15 |
| ohv V8 | 6.0 / 366 | 390 | 395 | 4-speed automatic: 12/16 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Saab 9-7X include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2006 9-7X 4-door wagon w/side airbags |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 3 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
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%. Sideimpact 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%.
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