2008 Saab 9-5 Review

The 9-5 is Saab's entry level luxury midsize sedan and is available for the 2008 model year as either a 4 door sedan or 5 door wagon. The wagon model carries the model name of the Saab 9-5 SportCombi and both the wagon and sedan versions are available as 2.3T or Aero trim levels. All models are front wheel drive and are equipped with a 2.3 liter turbocharged inline 4 cylinder engine that delivers 260 horsepower. Transmission options consist of either a 5 speed manual transmission or an automatic with manual override. EPA estimates are 17 mpg in the city and 27 on the highway. With a subtle yet appealing exterior and numerous popular options and features, this car delivers a smooth, comfortable ride and responds well to the commands of the driver.

The standard equipment includes the majority of major luxury amenities for both the wagon and the sedan. In fact, the only optional equipment for the sedan for both the 2.3T and Aero trims is a DVD based navigational system and aerodynamic headlights with xenon projector beam- but both models come standard with aerodynamic headlights with a halogen projector beam. Aside from the upscale headlamps, the 9-5 2.3T sedan comes standard with some of the most popular features luxury car buyers tend to seek including 17 inch twin five spoke alloy wheels, rain sensing windshield wipers, sunroof, dual zone automatic climate control system, cooled glove compartment, heated leather seats in both the front and the rear, dual-zone automatic climate control and a Harman Kardon 9 speaker sound system with in dash 6 CD changer, satellite radio and auxiliary audio jack. The Aero version includes these features with the exception of the wheels which are replaced by 17 inch five spoke high split alloy wheels plus a sport tuned suspension that improves handling and two tone leather seats. The 9-5 SportCombi wagon includes all the same features and optional headlamps as the 2.3T sedan and Aero sedan with the only difference being that the wagon comes with roof racks that are black for the 2.3T version and matte chrome for the Aero. Safety features for all models include front-seat side-impact airbags designed to protect both the head and the torso, active head restraints, antilock disc brakes and an exceptional stability and traction control system. An optional Visibility package for all models offers a parking assist system and the aerodynamic headlights with xenon projector beams.

With exceptionally comfortable seating, a more than ample amount of passenger space, a split folding rear seat that increases trunk space, responsive handling and an exceptionally smooth ride, the 2008 Saab 9-5 leaves little to be desired and much to be enjoyed.