2008 Saab 9-5

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2008 Saab Review
What's New for 2008 Changes to the Saab 9-5 are light for 2008, including only the addition of standard OnStar, sport seats and rain-sensing windshield wipers. In 1999, the human population topped 6 billion, Wayne Gretzky retired, people freaked out about the Y2K bug and a 17-year-old Prince song became relevant again. The Saab 9-5 was also introduced for that year, which makes it one of the oldest cars on the market. In the intervening years, the 9-5's engine and trim lineup have been simplified, the driving dynamics improved and the exterior styling tweaked. But for the most part, the 2008 9-5 belongs to the same generation as the car that dawned in that final year of the 20th century. As such, the 9-5 remains the comfortable car it has always been with an impressive number of features, but it pales in comparison against much newer competitors. The 2008 Saab 9-5 is available as a midsize sedan and a wagon known as the SportCombi. That latter name comes from a German term for wagon, or since Saabs are 'Born from Jets,' combi can also refer to a commercial aircraft usable for either cargo or passenger duties. The 9-5 fulfils that description as well, as its spacious interior offers plenty of passenger room and a maximum cargo capacity of 73 cubic feet. Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2008 Saab 9-5 is available as a midsize sedan or a wagon known as the SportCombi. Each is available in two trim levels: 2.3T or Aero. The 2.3T features standard 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, eight-way front sport seats, a tilt-telescoping steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a cooled glovebox, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio and auxiliary audio jack. The largely similar Aero adds a sport-tuned suspension, different 17-inch wheels, special interior trim and two-tone leather seats. Major options include the Visibility Package, which adds xenon headlights, rear parking assist, and power-folding, auto-dimming outside mirrors. Stand-alone options include cooled front seats and a touchscreen navigation system. The standard in-dash CD changer is unavailable with the navigation system -- buyers must choose whether to keep satellite radio or instead opt for a trunk-mounted CD changer at no cost. Powertrains and Performance All 9-5 sedans and SportCombi wagons are front-wheel drive and powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-4 that makes 260 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual is standard, while a five-speed automatic is optional. Many vehicles in this class offer six-speed versions of both types of transmission. Fuel economy is still respectable, however an automatic-equipped 2008 9-5 sedan has an EPA estimate of 17 mpg city/27 mpg highway. Safety Standard safety equipment on the 2008 Saab 9-5 includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, active head restraints and front-seat side airbags that provide head and torso protection. Side curtain airbags that protect rear occupants are not available. The OnStar communications system is standard. In government crash tests, the 9-5 earned a perfect five stars for driver and front-passenger protection in frontal impacts. In the side-impact test, the 9-5 received five stars for front passenger protection and four stars for rear protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 9-5 the best possible rating of 'Good' in front-offset crash testing, and a second-best 'Acceptable' for side-impact protection. Interior Design and Special Features The 9-5's overall design hasn't changed much since the car was first introduced, but the once convoluted, button-happy radio and climate controls have since been replaced by straightforward GM-sourced units. While this improved ergonomics, some Saab fans might be disappointed that the interior no longer has much of the Swedish brand's traditional distinctiveness. Materials quality could also be improved. Otherwise, the 9-5 is a comfortable place to spend time, with ample passenger room and exceptionally comfortable seats -- especially when equipped with the ventilation feature. For those who need extra cargo capacity, the SportCombi wagon is a good alternative to an SUV, as it supplies 37 cubic feet of luggage capacity with the rear seats in use and 73 cubes with them folded. Both of those capacities are greater than luxury compact SUVs like the Acura

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What's New for 2008
In what is expected to be the 9-7X's final year, Saab attempts to generate a halo effect and increased interest for this GM-derived midsize all-wheel-drive SUV by introducing a limited-production, high-performance Aero model for 2008. The Aero is powered by a 390-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 nearly identical to that used in the similar Chevrolet Trailblazer SS. The Aero also gets upgraded suspension and brakes to handle the extra oomph. The higher-volume 4.2i and 5.3i models are largely carryover except for optional new 18- and 20-inch polished aluminum wheels. Born from jets or Bjorn from Detroit? The 2008 Saab 9-7X is a capable and fairly well-disguised GM midsize sport-utility. But given other segment choices, we suspect that even Saab enthusiasts will think twice before putting this SUV in their driveways.Saab introduced its first-ever SUV three years ago in an attempt to jump on the sport-utility bandwagon and diversify its model lineup. To do so, it took the quick and easy route by basing the 9-7X on parent company General Motors' existing midsize SUV platform. The result was a premium-priced, Swedish-themed sport-utility that nonetheless had much in common with the Chevy Trailblazer and GMC Envoy.Like its siblings, the 2008 Saab 9-7X is a midsize SUV with truck-based, body-on-frame design. It's differentiated through recalibrated suspension tuning and Saab-styled interior and exterior tweaks. Saab's sport-utility also features smoother sculpting led by its signature three-port grille and cleanly styled headlamps, giving the 9-7X a simple yet sophisticated European flavor.Unlike other Saabs past or present, however, the 9-7X isn't powered by a small, high-revving turbocharged engine. Instead, it uses large-displacement American-style power to better cope with its truck-based mass. Most 9-7Xs are equipped with either a 4.2-liter inline-6 or a slightly less thrifty but more torquey 5.3-liter V8. The new driver-oriented, low-volume 9-7X Aero model shoehorns a muscular and much more enthusiastic 390-hp 6.0-liter V8 under its hood. Other Aero go-fast goodies include a limited-slip rear differential and a more responsive lowered chassis with larger stabilizer bars and heavy-duty brakes with larger calipers and high-performance linings.Though the 2008 Saab 9-7X has a few things to recommend it, in the final analysis it doesn't possess enough uniquely Saab qualities to compensate for its lofty price tag. Its upgrades over more ordinary GM midsizers are welcome to be sure, but don't go far enough in masking garden-variety domestic roots that date back to 2002. The 9-7X also competes in the hotly contested premium SUV segment against other popular, well-turned-out vehicles like the Acura MDX, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Volvo XC90 and VW Touareg 2, all of which offer a full complement of safety and luxury features as well as finely engineered performance. Unless your SUV simply must be a Saab, we advise you to consider your other options first.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2008 Saab 9-7X is a premium midsize SUV that seats five and comes in three main trim levels: the 4.2i, the 5.3i and the limited-production high-performance Aero. Standard equipment on the 4.2i includes 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, faux wood trim, eight-way power-adjustable/heated front seats with driver memory, a sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, OnStar communications, satellite radio and MP3-compatible Bose audio with an in-dash CD changer. The 5.3i model includes V8 power, power-adjustable pedals, xenon HID headlamps with washers and specific aluminum wheels.The range-topping Aero is further differentiated with more V8 power, a performance-tuned chassis, 20-inch wheels and speed-rated tires, unique Carbon Flash charcoal metallic paint, "Aero" embroidered leather seats and embossed floor mats.Optional 9-7X equipment includes a navigation system, rear-seat DVD entertainment and polished aluminum wheels.

Powertrains and Performance
All 9-7Xs are powered by GM-sourced engines, driving through a four-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel-drive system. The 4.2i model features a 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder good for 285 hp and 276 pound-feet of torque. The 5.3i comes equipped with a 5.3-liter V8 engine putting out 300 hp and 321 lb-ft of torque. The performance-minded Aero comes with a 6.0-liter V8 cranking out 390 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. Towing capacity, when properly equipped, is rated at 5,500 pounds for the six-cylinder 4.2i and 6,500 pounds for the V8-powered 5.3. EPA-estimated fuel economy for 2008 reflects what might be expected from a nearly 5,000-pound, large-displacement SUV: 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway from the 4.2-liter six-cylinder and 13/19 mpg for the smaller V8.

Safety
The 2008 Saab 9-7X comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control, front seat side-impact airbags, full-length head curtain airbags and OnStar communications with turn-by-turn navigation. In the government's frontal crash test, the 9-7X received an unimpressive three stars out of five for driver protection and a slightly better four-star rating for front passenger protection. Saab's SUV performed very well in the government's side-impact testing, receiving five stars out of five for both front and rear occupants.

Interior Design and Special Features
Drivers who have piloted other Saabs and don't look too closely will feel comfortable behind the wheel of the 9-7X. The center-mounted ignition and cockpit-inspired design are instantly recognizable Saab brand items, and the faux wood dash accents and contrasting upholstery trim impart additional Scandinavian design school cues. However, eagle-eyed aficionados will be able to look past these elements and recognize the vehicle's GM underpinnings -- which tend to cheapen the Saab 9-7X next to stylishly sophisticated rivals like the Touareg and XC90. Cargo capacity measures nearly 40 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and up to 80 cubic feet total -- about average for this segment.

Driving Impressions
In a valiant attempt to elevate the 9-7X's handling prowess and coax a bit more Euro-style road feel from its truck-based chassis, Saab engineers stiffened the 9-7X's frame and recalibrated its A-arm front suspension and solid rear axle arrangement. The surgery was a qualified success, as the 2008 Saab 9-7X does indeed have a more stable ride and more responsive handling than any of its GM cousins. Apparently there was only so much Saab's surgeons could do, however, as less expensive run-of-the-mill SUVs like the Explorer and 4Runner still outclass the 9-7X in driving dynamics. Brake feel also remains a sore point, as the pedal lacks the progressive and confident response associated with a premium vehicle. And while there's no arguing with the power of the standard inline-6 or optional V8 engines, we find they don't offer the refined operation of those found in many of the 9-7X's imported competitors.

Pros
Loaded with standard premium features, powerful engine lineup, comfortable cockpit-inspired cabin.

New 2008 Saab 9-5
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Build Your New 2008 Saab 9-5 2008 Saab 9-5 Articles & Information 2008 Saab 9-5 Standard Features 2008 Saab 9-5  Specifications 2008 Saab 9-5 Available Options 2008 Saab 9-5 Vehicle Colors 2008 Saab 9-5 Photos & 3D Spins New 2008 Saab 9-5 Lease Specials New 2008 Saab 9-5 Inventory Pre-Owned Saab 9-5 Vehicle Inventory Click To Sell Your Saab 9-5 New 2008 Saab 9-5 CarFinder Print 2008 Saab 9-5 Brochure

What's New for 2008
Changes to the Saab 9-5 are light for 2008, including only the addition of standard OnStar, sport seats and rain-sensing windshield wipers. In 1999, the human population topped 6 billion, Wayne Gretzky retired, people freaked out about the Y2K bug and a 17-year-old Prince song became relevant again. The Saab 9-5 was also introduced for that year, which makes it one of the oldest cars on the market. In the intervening years, the 9-5's engine and trim lineup have been simplified, the driving dynamics improved and the exterior styling tweaked. But for the most part, the 2008 9-5 belongs to the same generation as the car that dawned in that final year of the 20th century. As such, the 9-5 remains the comfortable car it has always been with an impressive number of features, but it pales in comparison against much newer competitors. The 2008 Saab 9-5 is available as a midsize sedan and a wagon known as the SportCombi. That latter name comes from a German term for wagon, or since Saabs are "Born from Jets," combi can also refer to a commercial aircraft usable for either cargo or passenger duties. The 9-5 fulfils that description as well, as its spacious interior offers plenty of passenger room and a maximum cargo capacity of 73 cubic feet.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2008 Saab 9-5 is available as a midsize sedan or a wagon known as the SportCombi. Each is available in two trim levels: 2.3T or Aero. The 2.3T features standard 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, eight-way front sport seats, a tilt-telescoping steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a cooled glovebox, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio and auxiliary audio jack. The largely similar Aero adds a sport-tuned suspension, different 17-inch wheels, special interior trim and two-tone leather seats. Major options include the Visibility Package, which adds xenon headlights, rear parking assist, and power-folding, auto-dimming outside mirrors. Stand-alone options include cooled front seats and a touchscreen navigation system. The standard in-dash CD changer is unavailable with the navigation system -- buyers must choose whether to keep satellite radio or instead opt for a trunk-mounted CD changer at no cost.

Powertrains and Performance
All 9-5 sedans and SportCombi wagons are front-wheel drive and powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-4 that makes 260 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual is standard, while a five-speed automatic is optional. Many vehicles in this class offer six-speed versions of both types of transmission. Fuel economy is still respectable, however; an automatic-equipped 2008 9-5 sedan has an EPA estimate of 17 mpg city/27 mpg highway.

Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2008 Saab 9-5 includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, active head restraints and front-seat side airbags that provide head and torso protection. Side curtain airbags that protect rear occupants are not available. The OnStar communications system is standard. In government crash tests, the 9-5 earned a perfect five stars for driver and front-passenger protection in frontal impacts. In the side-impact test, the 9-5 received five stars for front passenger protection and four stars for rear protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 9-5 the best possible rating of "Good" in front-offset crash testing, and a second-best "Acceptable" for side-impact protection.

Interior Design and Special Features
The 9-5's overall design hasn't changed much since the car was first introduced, but the once convoluted, button-happy radio and climate controls have since been replaced by straightforward GM-sourced units. While this improved ergonomics, some Saab fans might be disappointed that the interior no longer has much of the Swedish brand's traditional distinctiveness. Materials quality could also be improved. Otherwise, the 9-5 is a comfortable place to spend time, with ample passenger room and exceptionally comfortable seats -- especially when equipped with the ventilation feature. For those who need extra cargo capacity, the SportCombi wagon is a good alternative to an SUV, as it supplies 37 cubic feet of luggage capacity with the rear seats in use and 73 cubes with them folded. Both of those capacities are greater than luxury compact SUVs like the Acura RDX and BMW X3.

Driving Impressions
Once its turbo spools up, the 2.3-liter delivers plenty of power for this class, though not in as refined a manner as we'd like. Unlike most sport sedans and wagons, the 2008 Saab 9-5 is preferable with the automatic transmission, as its shorter gearing is better suited to the turbo engine's unusual power band. The 9-5's relatively low curb weight gives it a nimble feel through the corners. Many competitors have sharper reflexes and a better ride quality, however, and torque steer remains an issue under hard acceleration.

New 2008 Saab 9-3
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Build Your New 2008 Saab 9-3 2008 Saab 9-3 Articles & Information 2008 Saab 9-3 Standard Features 2008 Saab 9-3  Specifications 2008 Saab 9-3 Available Options 2008 Saab 9-3 Vehicle Colors 2008 Saab 9-3 Photos & 3D Spins New 2008 Saab 9-3 Lease Specials New 2008 Saab 9-3 Inventory Pre-Owned Saab 9-3 Vehicle Inventory Click To Sell Your Saab 9-3 New 2008 Saab 9-3 CarFinder Print 2008 Saab 9-3 Brochure

With so many entry-level luxury car choices from Germany, Japan and America, it's easy to overlook the Swedish Saab 9-3. But the truth is, the Saab 9-3 could be a great match for buyers looking for a spacious, safe and comfortable automobile with a proven safety record and a distinctly modern attitude. Today's 9-3 lineup is the latest in Saab's long line of near-luxury cars dating back to the 1970s. Offered in a variety of body styles, with abundant cargo space and frugal, yet powerful, engines, it always has represented a competitively priced, character-laden alternative to the me-too near-luxury offerings from other manufacturers. Though the unique and practical 9-3 hatchbacks were discontinued after the 2002 model year, the 9-3 family continues to be offered in multiple body styles: a four-door sedan, two-door convertible and four-door wagon, the latter called "SportCombi." All utilize small-displacement, turbocharged engines that extract big power while salvaging respectable fuel economy. Recent examples have been made available with V6s as a step up from one of Saab's traditionally lively four-cylinders. Furthermore, the Saab 9-3 tends to be priced aggressively, at least in sedan and wagon form. Convertible models have always been a bit less of a bargain. Among the Saab 9-3's chief shortcomings are its lower performance thresholds and somewhat cut-rate interior in comparison with German and Japanese competitors. Still, it remains a good bet for near-luxury car shoppers seeking something different in a class of look-alikes. Today's Saab 9-3 is sold in three body styles: sedan, SportCombi wagon and convertible. Sedan and SportCombi models feel spacious, with low floors, upright windows and seating for five, though three in the rear seat can be tight. Convertible models have a rear seat for two adults of small-to-average size. Cargo room in all models is generous. All 9-3 models are front-wheel-drive only. The 2.0T trim is powered by a turbocharged 210-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The Aero trim features a turbocharged, 250-hp 2.8-liter V6 mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, and rides on a sport-tuned suspension. Torque steer, the sense of steering wheel tug during acceleration (a common complaint on high-powered front-wheel-drive cars), is present but manageable with both motors. Inside, dramatic two-tone color schemes with lots of matte-black finishes create an intense, distinctly Scandinavian ambience. Longstanding Saab-isms such as a floor-mounted ignition switch and a "Night Panel" button that darkens all non-essential dashboard lights to reduce eye fatigue remain. However, dozens of radio and climate control buttons present a considerable ergonomic challenge. One of Saab's strongest suits is safety. Thus, the 9-3 offers two-stage side seat-mounted airbags, curtain airbags on sedan and wagon models, whiplash-reducing head restraints, stability control, tire-pressure monitors and antilock brakes with Brake Assist. Editorial reviews have praised the Saab 9-3 as one of the better-handling front-wheel-drive cars on the market, while taking note of its comfortable front seats and cavernous cargo areas, even in the convertible. Complaints focus on a sometimes harsh ride quality, turbo lag and a sense of quality far short of its German and Japanese competition. Shoppers interested in a used Saab 9-3 should note that the vehicle has changed some since its 2003 debut. Originally, the vehicle was available in three trim levels. The base Linear and more luxurious Arc shared a turbocharged, 175-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and nearly identical styling. The Vector wore sportier clothes, rode lower and offered a 210-hp version of the same engine, which was also optional on the Arc. The 9-3 Convertible appeared in 2004, followed by the SportCombi wagon in 2006. In 2005, Vector models were renamed Aero. In 2006, the base Linear trim level and its weak motor were dropped, while the Arc was renamed 2.0T and gained the 210-hp engine as standard. The Aero received the 2.8-liter turbocharged V6. The original Saab 9-3 debuted in 1999. Less a new model than a new name, the 9-3 took over for its Saab 900 predecessor and featured a mildly upgraded interior and revised chassis turning. Other than that, this 9-3 was pretty much the same as the 1994-'98 years of the 900. It was available in three body styles: a two-door hatchback, a four-door hatchback and a convertible. The first-generation 9-3 is considered one of the last true Saabs. Designed before General Motors took over Saab in 2000, the 9-3 possessed all the eccentricities and quirks that Saab-o-philes consider sacred: temperamental keyholes in the floor, rounded, jet-fighter-like wraparound windshields and bustle-back styling on the hatchbacks. Early 9-3s were offered with lively turbocharged four-cylinder engines. In 1999, base models produced 185 hp, while next up the ladder were the SE models with 205 hp and 9-3 Viggen models with 230. By 2002, base models were dropped, leaving the SE as the entry-level 9-3. The most extroverted of the original 9-3s was the convertible. One of the first convertibles to offer a completely one-touch power top, as well as the ability to open and close all four windows with one button, the Saab 9-3 convertible also boasted one of the largest trunks in its class and a generous amount of side glass for good outward vision. First-generation 9-3s generally provide a decent amount of feature content and safety. Their body structures are built to last, but due to spotty assembly quality, their interiors may not be. Editors at the time couldn't overlook the original 9-3's numerous shortcomings, but nonetheless were smitten by the 9-3's charm and dare-to-be-different packaging. As long as a broken-in 9-3 isn't a broken 9-3, it could be a compelling used-car option -- just be prepared for the generally high maintenance and repair costs that come with owning a European import.