The Saab 9-5 Range Gains A Sportier Dimension

The Saab 9-5 range is strengthened for 2004 by the addition of a 220 bhp, 2.3T four-cylinder turbo engine choice for Linear, Arc and Vector specifications. The new 2.3T replaces the previous 200 bhp 3.0V6t engine, and offers improvements in performance, fuel economy and reduced CO2 levels (212 g/km), and slots in the 9-5 line-up between the current 2.0t (150 bhp), 2.3t (185 bhp) and 2.3 HOT Aero (250 bhp) offerings.

In common with all other 9-5 petrol engines, the new 2.3T is a highly responsive unit, delivering strong torque at low engine speeds for safer overtaking, and a smooth driving experience requiring fewer gearchanges. It is not necessary to maintain high engine speeds for strong performance because turbocharging ensures that exceptional torque is readily available between 2,000-4,000 rpm, the engine speeds used in everyday driving.

The 16-valve engine features direct ignition, Saab unique, in-house Trionic 7 engine management and counter-rotating balancer shafts for exceptional refinement. It produces 220 bhp at 5,500 rpm and impressive maximum torque of 310 Nm between 1,900 and 4,500 rpm.

With brisk acceleration (0-60 mph in 7.5 sec) and typically strong low/mid-range torque (5.9 sec for 40-60 mph in 4th gear), the new engine is available with 5-speed manual and Sentronic paddle shift automatic transmission. All 9-5 2.3T models are supplied as standard with TCS and ESP, as is the 176 bhp, 3.0 V6 TiD diesel unit for 2004.

Interior and exterior improvements

The Saab 9-5's spacious cabin is given a fresher look with the introduction of lighter grey leather upholstery, which replaces charcoal. The facia top is now also finished in matt black, instead of grey, to give a crisper, sportier appearance.

The 9-5’s Saab Information Display (SID) is updated with greater capacity and graphics similar to those found on the new 9-3 range. It also adopts the 9-3's seat-belt reminder function, which independently informs the driver and the front passenger of a non-belt usage, using tell-tales and audible warnings based on speed and time.

When it was first assessed under the Euro NCAP crash test programme, the Saab 9-5 achieved the highest score awarded at that time. Following the adoption of the new seat-belt reminder system, the Saab 9-5 has now been given a maximum 5-star Euro NCAP rating.

Externally, three new metallic colours are added to the 2004 9-5 range: Expresso black; Nocturne Blue, and Glacier Blue.