2010 Saab 9-5 Review Summary
With the revamped 2010 Saab 9-5, ranked 7.0 by ACG in the Upscale Midsize Cars class, consumers have a quirky and unique alternative to the mainstays in this category. That said, those looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient upscale sedan will certainly not find the 9-5 attractive. Indeed, the car starts in the high 40s (although it does come standard with many features that are options on other cars) and its gas mileage has not yet been determined. For 2010, the 9-5 comes only in a base trim and since it is scheduled to arrive in dealerships this fall, there is an extremely limited supply. For 2011, however, Saab is planning to offer the 9-5 in two trims, base and Aero, and there is expected to be a much more abundant offering to choose from. The 2010 9-5 is only available with one engine that is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission equipped with paddle shifters. The 2.8-liter V6 produces 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. As is the case with many of the cars in this category outside of the leaders, consumers should not expect top-notch performance from the 9-5, but they can count on a smooth and relaxed driving experience. The exterior of the 9-5 represents an entirely new look for Saab. The sedan boasts an attractive look that is distinctly different from just about every other car on the road. Overall, critics find the 9-5’s look to be sophisticated and charming. While the exterior of the 2010 9-5 receives praise from the automotive press, it’s most definitely the inside of the sedan that that impresses the most. For starters, the 9-5 offers supportive and cozy seats, as well as a ton of room to sprawl out in both the front and back. So much room, in fact, that the 9-5 rivals large luxury cars when it comes to interior space. Secondly, the interior technology that Saab offers standard on the 9-5 is absolutely fantastic, but it should be considering the hefty price tag this car comes with. In particular, reviewers are fond of the 9-5’s sat-nav moonroof, lane-departure warning system, active bi-xenon headlamps, park assist, heated and cooled leather seats, and iPod integration. If there is any aspect of the 2010 9-5’s interior that disappoints, it would be the extensive use of cheap plastics throughout the cabin, which contributes to a lack of premium feel in the car. Lastly, when it comes to cargo space, there is no information on the 9-5 as of yet. However, reviewers expect the sedan to offer a fair amount of trunk room and storage space throughout the cabin.
2010 Saab 9-5 Review Handling
Although the 9-5 offers a smooth and relaxed ride with sufficient power, there’s no hiding the fact that it wasn’t built with precision handling in mind. Chief among handling complaints with the 9-5 is the car’s steering, which is incredibly light and removes all feel from the driving experience. The 2010 9-5 certainly can’t compete on the racetrack or on the road with the best in this class when it comes to handling.
2010 Saab 9-5 Review Safety
The 9-5 has not yet been crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry. Similarly, a list of standard safety features has not yet become available, but reviewers expect the 9-5 to offer plenty of electronic safety aids and have head-curtain airbags. The 2009 version of the 9-5 did not offer head-curtain airbags and was the only car not to in this class.
2010 Saab 9-5 Noteworthy
The 2010 Saab 9-5 has not yet been given a reliability rating from J.D. Power and Associates, however, every Saab features a four-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additionally, Saab offers no-charge scheduled maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles.The 9-5 has not yet been crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry. Similarly, a list of standard safety features has not yet become available, but reviewers expect the 9-5 to offer plenty of electronic safety aids and have head-curtain airbags. The 2009 version of the 9-5 did not offer head-curtain airbags and was the only car not to in this class.
