First introduced in 1998, the Saab 9-5 has been marketed as an executive vehicle in either a sedan or wagon style. The 9-5 took the place of the 9000 in the maker's lineup and the manufacturer is quick to point out that this vehicle is completely different from their late 20th century 95. The 9-5 has five available engines: 1.9L turbodiesel I4, 2.0L B205 I4, 2.3L B235 I4, 3.0L L81 V6 and a 3.0L Isuzu 6DE1 diesel V6. Not only that, the Saab 9-5 has either a 5-speed automatic, manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission available. In Europe, in 2005, Saab introduced an engine that accepts E85 fuel but has yet to release the same engine style in the United States.

Several regions around the world have been using the Saab 9-5 as a law enforcement vehicle. In Sweden, the 9-5 and Volvo V70 are the choices used by police during patrols. Scotland has also recently added the Saab 9-5 to its law enforcement fleet. Other areas used the 9-5 in their fleets as well but have recently had to downgrade to more affordable vehicles. The Saab 9-5 has also been featured in several European films as a police cruiser; making its use for law enforcement more acceptable.

Rumors are running rampant about the 2010 model year of the Saab 9-5. Some are saying that the vehicle will undergo a complete overhaul, redesigning the exterior, interior and engine components. Others claim that the newest edition will be a 4-door hatchback version and all other styles will be nixed for this one. The wheelbase is said to become wider, while the fuel efficiency should be better too. Though some say that the 4-door hatchback will be the only version available in the next few model years, others are claiming that Saab will release a high-performance Saab 9-5, possibly called the 9-5 Aero Sport. These projected models would certainly contradict any comparison to the Toyota Avalon.

The only confirmation from Saab has been regarding the addition of a rear backup light, a more advanced navigation system and a lane-guidance system. The other rumors will have to wait for Saab to make a statement or for the 2010 9-5 to be released at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show in March. Either way, Saab certainly has created a wealth of gossip about the newest 9-5. The Saab 9-5 wagon has gotten attention even in Hollywood, like when a red 9-5 wagon with black accents was featured in the car chase scene of the 2001 film "Bandits."