2009 Saab 9-5: Road Test
2009 Saab 9-5 ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $40,405 - $43,270
- Invoice: $38,183 - $40,890
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2009 Saab 9-5 includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Saab 9-5 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Saab 9-5, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Saab 9-5 help you decide if a 2009 Saab 9-5 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Acceleration is surprisingly strong, given an engine that's small relative to those in other premium midsize cars, and reasonably linear, given that it's turbocharged. Throttle response is delayed by moderate turbo lag, however, and by the automatic transmission's occasionally slow downshifts. Manual transmission 9-5s suffer from long throws and imprecise clutch action.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a sedan with automatic transmission averaged 23.0 mpg in mostly highway driving, and a SportCombi averaged 18.5 in mostly city driving. We've not measured a manual-transmission model. 9-5 uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 6.4 |
We judge the 9-5's ride firmer than necessary. Sharp freeway expansion joints register with a jolt, though there's little float or wallow at highway speeds.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Secure and sporty. Any 9-5 responds alertly to changes of direction with nicely weighted steering. Rapid acceleration from a stop and from low speed triggers torque steer. Braking is swift, powerful, and consistent.
QUIETNESS
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 |
Little wind noise. The 9-5's turbocharged engine is at a disadvantage against rivals with V6s and V8s, as it idles somewhat roughly and whines under acceleration. Tire roar is evident on coarse pavement.
CONTROLS
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
Clear gauges are unobstructed. The climate and audio controls are easy to use. We don't mind the center-console-mounted ignition switch--a Saab custom. Some of our testers find the power window switches located there inconvenient. Programming the navigation system requires some practice, and with one CD slot, you must choose between playing music or viewing the map CD. A trunk-mounted CD changer is included when navigation is ordered, however.
DETAILS
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 7.5 |
Many cabin surfaces are soft-touch, but we think too many budget-grade plastics detract from this interior's upscale feel.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 7.3 |
Plenty of room. The seats are generously sized, but too soft for best support. A manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel is standard, but many rivals offer power operation. Over-the-shoulder visibility is poor.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
Headroom is adequate, but knee clearance is tight if the front seats are pushed far back. Some testers want more foot space. The rear bench is nicely contoured and supportive, though too narrow for comfortable three-passenger trips.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 8 | 4 |
The large trunk has a flat floor and cabin pass-through. The SportCombi's cargo bay is cavernous, with neat under-floor storage. Both body styles have split folding rear seatbacks. There's no excess passenger-compartment storage. Cupholders are limited to pop-out dashboard contraptions that are taxed by larger drinks, and a center-console insert that negates use of the armrest.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 | 6.6 |
The 9-5 is among the oldest designs in the premium-midsize-car class and counts among its shortcomings the absence of curtain side airbags. It's also expensive for a 4-cylinder automobile. Still, this is a roomy, solid, good-handling car available with the added utility of a wagon body style. Despite recent price increases, slow sales should mean big discounts.
Total Score
| 2.3T sedan, manual | 2.3T sedan, automatic | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62 | 62 | 66 | 69.4 |
Total Score: 63
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
