2002 SAAB 9-5 Aero from UK and Ireland - Comments

Nothing as yet!

The car looks far better than a non-Aero 9-5 - the bodykit and 17-inch alloys make a huge difference.

As an overtaking car, nothing else I have driven comes close. The mid-range acceleration (in 3rd and 4th gear) is nothing short of phenomenal!

The suspension set up is pretty stiff, and so while driving in town the ride can be slightly uncomfortable at times. Out on the open road, however, it's a different story. Body control round both high- and low-speed corners is excellent.

The steering is rather light, but does provide just enough feedback to let you know what the front wheels are up to. Unfortunately, the car does suffer from rather a lot of torque steer - but sure this is unavoidable with 250bhp going through the front wheels?

On a more practical note, the interior is also of a high standard. Poor build quality of Saabs of old has given way to quality that almost rivals that of German manufacturers like BMW. As is usual in a Saab, the controls are all orientated towards the driver, but the passenger can still operate the climate control etc without any trouble.

The Aero comes with a high standard spec - you get far more kit on this car than on an equivalently priced 5-Series, for example. As standard, you get xenon headlights, leather, front and rear heated seats, dual zone climate control, parking radar... the list goes on! The boot is surprisingly large, and there is plenty of head and legroom in both the front and the back of the car - even for someone 6'5" like me.

On the subject of seats, I can honestly say that I have never sat in a car more comfortable!! The front seats of the current 9-5 are absolutely fantastic.

Nice review, and one which I completely agree with.

For me, the torque steer is the biggest gripe - it's inexcusable in a modern car, especially one which has otherwise been so beautifully developed and engineered.

However, as a package, I love my Aero. It's seriously quick, handles nicely (torque steer apart), and it's beautifully built. As you say, the mid-range is stunning! Although it can't quite match my old 528i for out and out balance in the corners, it's a much nicer car in every other respect. And people seem to admire the Aero. The BMW only ever got ignored (they are everywhere after all), or provoked aggression on the few times anyone even noticed it. BMW have a serious image problem in the UK.

Saab has the highest brand loyalty of all marques with something like 95% of Saab owners sticking with the brand when they change their cars. So far, I can see why.

Would agree with almost all of the comments made.

I have the 2003 model Aero est. Nothing comes close to it as a package. I looked at BMW, Audi, Volvo & MB, none could compare on performance + kit + value & quality. A similar vehicle was £10,000 more from the others!!!

Super car full stop!

I agree with the comments above also. I considered the Aero, but went for the next best 95 Vector estate 2.3Turbo auto. The reason - I saved almost £10,000 by buying it straight from a Swedish dealer in Kroners and in UK spec, plus some extras. The spec would have cost £31,000 new at UK dealers. If they ever bring out a 4 wheel drive, I'll be at the front of the queue, as they can wear front tyres quickly, and front power only in fast corners isn't always a good thing. I know the Aero is stiffer, but the body roll could and should be improved.

Also far more credibility than being seen driving beamers and mercs, or even audis.

I have liked the 9-5 since it arrived. I just recently test drove the 9-5 aero. All I can say is that, that car sticks to the road and hugs curves like a high end sports car. The interior is well put togather,and still maintains the traditional saab look and smell, and the instruments are easy to use. The Horman/Kordon sound system is superb.. watch out Bose!! Not to mention, the car is just flat out Gorgeous. It cuts through the wind like a laser finished sword. I'm a college senior, and I would like to let the world know that the 9-5 is my graduation gift to myself. I want a Red aero with a manual transmission,with tan interior, and a rear spoiler...Brand New from sweeden.

Jamaul Brown.