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Saab’s 9-5 Aero wagon is sporty and practical. Sometimes it is possible to have your cake and eat it, too. Saab’s 9-5 Aero wagon is proof.
The 9-5 Aero wagon combines the performance of a sports sedan with the function of a station wagon in a way that enhances both. Not only is it fun to drive, but it can swallow a generous amount of cargo at the same time.
The Aero is distinguished by its lowered stance, 17-inch wheels and subtle spoilers. The understated performance look is very European, and enticing to those who like their performance cars to be models of discretion.
Sport wagons, I think, are much more appealing for urban life than a sport-utility vehicle because they retain an SUV’s practicality without sacrificing that all-important, fun-to-drive factor found in a lithe and lively sedan. The Aero wagon is just as much at home zipping through a quick turn as it is barreling down the highway.
The Aero model is the performance version of Saab’s midsize 9-5, a vehicle whose compact exterior is deceiving because the interior is nearly as spacious as that of a full-size car. There are three engines available in the 9-5: a 185-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder; a 200-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6; and the 230-horsepower, 2.3-liter, four-cylinder found in the Aero. All wagon engines are turbocharged, but each is tailored to deliver specific driving characteristics. The pumped-up Aero is the most fun if you like performance. Generating 230 horsepower from an engine this size is impressive. Saab has long been one of the leaders in turbocharging, and the ability to extract extra power from a small engine reflects its expertise. Computerized electronics enables Saab’s Trionic system to Òmanage each element of the combustion process to ensure that each drop of fuel is used to develop the most power possible,Ó according to Saab’s press materials. Saab believes this philosophy enables its engines to be environmentally friendly, as well.
The 9-5 Aero is available with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, and the test car was equipped with the automatic. Outright performance is better with the manual, but the automatic is easier to drive in the city.
Slightly sluggish initial acceleration is one of the byproducts of a high-powered turbo engine mated to an automatic transmission. Putting the transmission in Sport mode, however, improved across-the-board performance measurably. A slight tap of the throttle resulted in quick downshifts, and the transmission held each gear a bit longer.
All-weather traction profits from the traction control system and the automatic transmission’s Winter mode that selects a higher starting gear for less wheelspin.
The 9-5’s seats are shaped to provide excellent support. The test car was equipped with the optional heated and ventilated leather seats. The ventilation system consists of small fans that blow air through tiny holes in the leather upholstery, and they ar e delightful in the summer.
The 9-5 instrument panel wraps around the driver to create a cockpit feel. Controls for the radio and heater are canted slightly toward the driver so they are easy to reach. For extended night driving, a button turns off the lights on all instruments except for the speedometer.
A small cupholder folds out of the dash alongside the radio, but it is not big enough for a large cup or mug.
Folding the back seat is easy and practical. It takes only two steps: Pull up the seat cushion and fold down the back. The carpeted cargo space is generous, plus there is a shallow hidden storage compartment under the floor.
Saab offers a number of cargo accessories, including restraint systems for pets and cargo tracks for securing items that might slide around.
Price
The base price of the 9-5 Aero wagon is $40,875. Options on the test car included the automatic transmission, 17-inch BBS wheels, heated front and rear seats and ventilated lea er upholstery. The sticker price was $45,890.
Warranty
Four years or 50,000 miles.
To get in touch with Tom Strongman, send e-mail to tstrongman@kc.rr.com.
Point: Sport wagons as personified by the 9-5 Aero give enthusiast drivers a fun-to-drive car that has a utilitarian side for hauling camping gear, bikes or baby gear.
Counterpoint: The automatic transmission hinders off-the-line acceleration slightly, but provides effortless driving in the city. The dash-mounted cupholder won’t hold large cups or mugs.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Engine: 2.3-liter, 4-cyl.
Transmission: automatic Front-wheel drive
Wheelbase: 106.4 inches
Curb weight: 3,620 lbs.
Base price: $40,875
As driven: $45,890
Mpg rating: 19 city, 25 hwy.
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