6.3.2002
New Saab 9-5 range at Geneva

The new and improved Saab 9-5 Sedan and Wagon range is on display at the Geneva Motor Show. The new range delivers better performance, more driving appeal, more style and even better safety, thanks to a development program involving over 1,200 improvements.

The new, improved Saab 9-5 Sedan and Wagon range is a convincing alternative choice for discerning customers in the premium sector. It now delivers more performance, more driving appeal, more style and even better safety thanks to a development program involving over 1,200 improvements.

More performance
A sporty, all-new, 176 bhp 3.0-liter V6TiD engine has substantially broadened the range's appeal in the rapidly expanding premium diesel sector. It is now joined by a 120 bhp, four-cylinder 2.2TiD engine. Fitted with a dual-mass flywheel for refinement, this engine delivers an impressive blend of fuel economy and power and is available with a manual transmission (automatic transmission available from August).

Across the range, the powertrain package is strengthened further by the introduction of a new, five-speed, adaptive automatic transmission. This changes shift patterns according to prevailing road conditions and is programmed to maximize the benefit of Saab's high-torque engines.

The range-topping 2.3 turbo Aero models also receive a power boost to 250 bhp whilst retaining exceptionally high torque at 350 Nm. Automatic versions deliver improved performance as torque is no longer restricted on the new transmission.

The arrival of the 2.2TiD engine will now allow 9-5 diesel customers to specify an automatic transmission for the first time. The automatic transmission will be available from August. The new five-speed unit features an adaptive shift pattern, compensating for changing conditions such as high altitude or higher towing loads. The Saab 9-5 2.2TiD completes Saab's offer in the premium diesel segment following the successful launch of the 176 bhp Saab 9-5 3.0TiD last summer.

More driving appeal
All models feature substantial improvements to the suspension and steering for sharper, more sporty handling responses, better body control and less pitch, all without compromising the chassis's fine ride qualities.

Springs, dampers and roll bars, front and rear, are stiffened, and the front sub-frame is both lighter and stronger. The steering gear is also retuned for even better feel to match the suspension changes.
A new Saab-tuned Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is available as an option.

Interventions are exceptionally progressive and driver-friendly and Saab believes its level of performance is class-leading.

More style
The powertrain and chassis improvements are matched by a subtle re-styling of the grille, headlamps, rear lights and bumpers to give the car a cleaner, more modern appearance.

The interior takes on a smarter look with the introduction of new trim and equipment packages, or forms, inspired by the world of architecture and allowing greater customer choice. 'Linear' places an emphasis on simple Swedish design; 'Arc' adopts leather for a more luxurious feel and Vector creates a much sportier atmosphere. 'Aero' is still reserved as the designation for the sporting flagship of the range.

Improved safety
As you would expect from Saab, there are also safety improvements. Bi-xenon headlamps can now be specified for even safer night driving. The halogen lighting performance of the 9-5 is already widely acclaimed and the bi-xenon option gives a startling 60 per cent better spread of light.

The deployment of the front airbags is now more progressive due to improved sensing for harder or softer inflation according to the severity of impact, seating position and seat-belt usage.

Further bolstering to the headlining and all interior pillars further reduces the likelihood of head injury in a severe impact. It is a further refinement of the 9-5's excellent safety properties, as recognized by EuroNCAP testers.

Well-equipped
The full Saab 9-5 line-up also offers 150 bhp, 2.0 turbo and 185 bhp, 2.3 turbo engines in sedan or wagon bodystyles.

All variants have a comprehensive standard equipment list including: automatic climate control, electrically powered windows and door mirrors, ABS, anti-whiplash active head restraints, an alarm/immobilizer and alloy wheels.