Redesigned Saab 9-5 to Start Under $50,000
Three months into the ownership of niche Dutch automaker Spyker, Saab is moving ahead on the redesigned 9-5. In Aero trim, the brand’s flagship will start at $49,990. It packs a 300-horsepower, turbocharged 2.8-liter V-6 and a six-speed automatic and hits showrooms in July as a late 2010 model.
Come the 2011 model year — meaning likely this fall — Saab will also offer a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in a yet-unnamed trim to start under $40,000. Power ratings have yet to be released, but we’d expect them to be around the 210 hp that the turbo four makes in Saab’s smaller 9-3. The 9-5 Aero will be offered with all-wheel drive and a sport-tuned suspension; lesser trims will have a softer suspension and, likely, front-wheel drive.
It’s not clear whether those prices include a destination charge; Saab spokeswoman Michele Tinson didn’t immediately return our voicemail. But the prices move the 9-5 into a slightly more affordable realm, given the current 9-5 starts at $42,000. Interestingly, the new pricing competes squarely with the S80 from cross-country rival Volvo, as well as the Cadillac CTS from estranged parent GM. Both cars start under $40,000 and top out in the $50,000s.
Features on the 9-5 include a USB-compatible stereo, leather upholstery, power front seats, eight airbags and an electronic stability system. A Harman-Kardon stereo, lane departure warning system and head-up display are optional.
