Saab 9-5 Vector 2.0T 2011 review

It's been a long time since I've driven a Saab, and even longer since I've driven one I liked. So long, in fact, that I can't even remember if he was there at all.

Under GM's leadership, cars have become bad, boring, or hopelessly outdated. The previous 9-5 were symptomatic of this regimen. It lacked the updates it needed to keep up to date and lagged behind the competition.

Design

This car has at least as much GM involvement and, in terms of pregnancy, was ready for 12 months or more. But it has a couple of advantages. It is much larger than its predecessor; the previous 9-5 was too close in size to the smaller 9-3. This car has a spacious rear seat and a roomy, albeit shallow trunk.

In addition to turbocharging, other hallmarks of Saab are implemented in the car's sheet metal, which has a distinctive cab shape with a glass canopy. It looks like a Saab even without the liftback rear end that used to be part of the formula.

Inside, an asymmetrical speedometer, grilled air vents, handsome seats and a cockpit-style center console also reflect the brand's strengths. It's a pleasant place.

Travelers will notice the lack of a central ignition key cutout and fancy retractable cup holders. This will not be a deal breaker for anyone.

TECHNOLOGY

The foundations are good. Although shared with smaller brands like Opel, the car's composure and chassis tuning are up to segment standards. It feels solid and substantial.

VALUE

It's chock-full of gear. Almost nothing is missing from the spec sheet, and the entry-level car comes almost fully loaded. The list includes things that are now must-haves like Bluetooth, as well as premium kit like an informative head-up display. Active cruise control seems to be a major omission.

DRIVE UNIT

The range has been rationalized. There used to be almost as many Saab variants as there were buyers. This time we are talking about three engines: a petrol four-cylinder driven here, a four-cylinder 2.0-liter diesel and a 2.8-liter V6. All are turbocharged, Saab's signature, and the petrol quad deliver surprisingly adequate, if unimpressive, performance.

Driving the front wheels through a six-speed gearbox, it reaches 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds. The V6 offers all-wheel drive but is much heavier.

However, some will question the ride quality that rumbles and thumps against road details and the tire roar created by unfavorable asphalt. But at first glance, the 9-5 exceeded all expectations. In a very real sense, the only way was up.

VERDICT

The 9-5 should redefine the brand for a new generation of shoppers, and at least it has a chance.

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