Saab 9-5 Estate

ON THE ROAD

Performance
Every 9-5 has a turbocharged engine, but it’s the 1.9-litre diesel that’s likely to find favour with company car drivers thanks to low carbon dioxide emissions and useful flexibility. Petrol fans can choose from a 150bhp 2.0, a 185bhp 2.3 or the flagship 2.3 Aero. With 260bhp, this is blisteringly fast in a straight line, but unless you’re careful with the throttle, the traction control system rarely rests.

Ride & handling
The front-wheel-drive 9-5 combines a supple ride with decent body control. For such a large car it turns in well and tracks securely through corners, elbowing aside mid-corner bumps. On the downside, the steering doesn’t offer enough feedback and the flagship Aero model has more power than the chassis can handle.

Refinement
The petrol engines are hushed and, although the diesel can sound grumbly when worked hard. Whether you’re trundling along in heavy traffic or cruising on the motorway, road noise rarely intrudes, while wind roar only becomes a problem at high speed. Gearshifts aren’t particularly slick, though

Buying & owning
Running costs for company car drivers are competitive and the 9-5 undercuts most of its rivals on price. The cheaper models generally hold on to more of their original value come resale time, although the Saab still depreciates far quicker than its German rivals.

Quality & reliability
The cabin seems built to last and the dash materials are soft to the touch. However, some of the other plastics look downbeat and simple details, such as grab handles that aren’t damped, let the side down. Saab was second to last in our 2005 reliability survey and the 9-5 was 95th out of 100 cars in the same research. The company clearly has some ground to make up in reliability stakes.

Safety & security
The 9-5 was awarded the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP’s crash tests. Standard safety kit includes stability control and twin front and side airbags but, disappointingly for a car in this class, curtain ’bags are not available.

Behind the wheel
The 9-5’s cabin is distinctive and very Saab. Like all Saabs, its centre console curves invitingly around the driver to put all the controls within easy reach, and the layout is mostly logical. Seat comfort and support are excellent, with well shaped chairs that move to suit all shapes and sizes. However, the steering wheel could do with a wider range of reach adjustment.

Space & practicality
There’s plenty of room in the back of the 9-5 and, despite some suspension intrusion, the boot is a good size. You can accommodate three adults across the rear bench, and this splits and folds flat to accommodate longer loads. On the downside there’s not enough storage space around the driver.

Equipment
The 9-5 is generously equipped, with even the basic Linear trim getting alloy wheels, climate control, all-round power windows, electric heated door mirrors and a single-slot CD player. Leather upholstery is standard on Vector spec and above

Car Reviews From What Car