2004 SAAB 9-5 Aero review from UK and Ireland

Direct ignition pack failed after just 2 months.

Sensor failed after 4 months causing engine to cut out.

Engine died on the motorway as if it had run out of fuel (it hadn't).

Two sets of new tyres needed.

ICE system replaced twice.

The satellite navigation has a mind of its own too, recently sending me on a 15-mile detour to travel to a village 5 miles away. Attempts to obtain updates for the 2002 data CD have also proved fruitless with neither the local Saab dealer nor the satellite navigation supplier (Kenwood) willing to respond to my requests for information on how or where to obtain one.

The 2.3 high output turbo engine is efficient, but, being a 4-cylinder, sounds noisy and overstretched.

Unlike my previous 9-5 (a 1998 2.0 SE) the seats on this model are uncomfortable and, although I am only 5' 10" tall, I have had great difficulty in being able to move the driver's seat back far enough to be able to sit comfortably without having to bend my legs.

The sports suspension means that the ride is pretty hard with even the most minor defects in the road's surface being felt through the chassis.

The local dealer has been pretty hopeless too, although, after I complained to Saab UK about them, they did seem to take a greater interest in my and the car's wellbeing.