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Saab 9-5 released

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Manufacturer's List Price*

Saab 9-5 TiD4 Vector Sedan $71,900*
Saab 9-5 Turbo4 Vector Sedan $75,900*
Saab 9-5 Turbo6 Aero XWD Sedan $94,900*

Each model has a range of optional extras available.


Home > News > Saab

15th April, 2011

Now available in Australia, the new Saab 9-5 signals the commencement of a new era for the Saab brand. Sleek, sophisticated and, dare we say it, unmistakably Saab. The new model combines stand-out looks with advanced technologies and brings a fresh alternative choice to the premium sedan segment.

The clean, sculpted shape embraces the purity of Scandinavian design and its dramatic wraparound window graphic echoes Saab’s aviation heritage. With styling inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car and a 'muscular', low-slung stance, the new Saab 9-5 heralds the introduction of a bold, more expressive design language.

The new Saab 9-5 is manufactured at Saab’s plant in Trollhättan, Sweden.

An extraordinary array of driver focussed technology.

The new Saab 9-5 is the most advanced Saab ever, introducing an array of high-tech features and benefits that bring the car and driver closer together, while also enhancing the travel experience for all occupants.

Head-Up Display (Pilot HUD).

Projecting essential data in the windshield through the Pilot HUD, such as vehicle speed, warning messages, turn indicators and navigation instructions, offers real-life safety benefits, as the driver does not need to look away from the road. Inspired by similar technology in fighter jets, the Saab 9-5’s Pilot HUD is shown as a virtual image, seemingly about two metres ahead, within the driver’s natural eye focus. The display is controlled and adjusted via two switches in the main fascia adjacent to the driver’s door.

Driver-focussed cockpit.

The driver-focussed cockpit is traditional Saab, while its execution is all new. The deep centre console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by a neat ventilation zone. Deeply recessed main dials include a rolling ‘altimeter’ speed read-out, a reference to Saab’s aviation heritage from the Aero X concept. Driver displays, including the Head-Up Display (Pilot HUD) in the windshield, are predominantly illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance.

Inside the spacious cabin, simple forms define its architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior. Overall space is increased both front and rear. The choice of materials, the fit and finish and the tactile quality of the controls all reflect the new Saab 9-5’s premium appeal. Heated leather electric seats are standard and the Aero Turbo6 also comes with driver seat memory.

Styling and ice block – inspired signature lighting.

The face of the new Saab 9-5 is defined by a deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units. The entire glasshouse is presented as a ‘wraparound’ mono graphic, the disguised windshield and side pillars giving the cabin Saab’s signature cockpit look.

Viewed from any angle, the new Saab 9-5 cuts a strong and powerful stance. The ‘organic sculpture’ of the low-slung body blends clean, uncluttered lines with natural, curvaceous shapes. Brand design cues are evident in the ‘hockey stick’ rear window styling, the strong C-pillars and the fuselage-smooth surfacing of the bodywork.

The new Saab 9-5’s overall proportions stretch the traditional three-box sedan silhouette, while avoiding the fastback cliché of a four-door coupé look. The car’s dynamic character is emphasised by a falling roofline that culminates in sweeping rear pillars, which buttress a slightly recessed rear screen. Latent energy is conveyed by mudguards that are subtly pulled out to 'melt' into the wheels. Below that smooth, flat rear boot lid, a full-width, ice-block rear light bar wraps into fully integrated LED signature lighting.

The sleek shape also contributes to excellent aerodynamic properties. An impressive 0.28 Cd (coefficient of drag) contributes to reduced fuel consumption and low wind noise. Good high speed stability is also ensured by near zero lift forces at the front axle and the achievement of negative, downforce values at the rear, assisted by airflow from the slightly concave surface of the boot lid. The rear light mouldings are also shaped with small side ‘spoilers’ to further improve rear stability.

Bi-Xenon Smart Beam.

This is one of the most sophisticated, adaptive lighting systems on the market. It uses Bi-Xenon headlamps that swivel to better illuminate bends ahead and automatically optimises light beam patterns to suit the prevailing speed, road and driving conditions. Bi-Xenon Smart Beam also engages and disengages high beam automatically, relieving the driver of this repetitive chore.

At speeds below 50 km/h, Town Light provides a wide, flat beam so that pedestrians or potential hazards at the roadside can be better seen. At speeds up to 100 km/h, Country Light projects a longer beam, while still giving good roadside illumination. Motorway Light increases the beam length still further, to 140 metres, and is activated only above 100 km/h on straight, level roads.

When rain or snow is detected by the windshield wipers’ rain sensor, Adverse Weather Light provides a wide, asymmetric light pattern which allows the driver to see lane markings better in all light modes, Dynamic Bend Light provides illumination into oncoming bends by swivelling the headlamps up to 15° to the right or left, according to the vehicle speed and steering angle.

All turbo engine range.

The new Saab 9-5’s all-turbo powertrain line-up brings together Saab’s expertise in turbocharging with state-of-the-art engine technologies. Engine options include the Vector Turbo4 162 kW, Vector TiD4 118 kW and Aero Turbo6 221 kW XWD™. The Vector Turbo4 produces EEC peak torque of 350 Nm at 2,500 rpm, the Vector TiD4 350 Nm at 1,750-2,500 r/min and the Aero Turbo6 400 Nm at 2,000 rpm. In fact, the fuel efficiency of the diesel model qualifies Australian drivers for the higher Luxury Car Tax threshold. All transmissions are six-speed automatic.

Saab XWD™ with eLSD.

Saab’s industry-leading all-wheel-drive system is standard with the 2.8 Aero Turbo6 engine. It offers a more rewarding driving experience and greater control in all road conditions. This on-demand, active system – integrated and optimised by Saab chassis engineers – uses a multi-plate Haldex clutch unit to infinitely vary drive torque between the front and rear axles. Careful programming enables the application of rear drive to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics. The ESC system is also tuned to optimise the chassis’ sporty potential without reducing safety margins.

An electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD) transfers up to 50% of rear torque between the rear wheels, to whichever has more grip. Under hard cornering, or when completing a high speed manoeuvre, such as a lane change, the brief application of more or less torque to either wheel helps the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

Saab DriveSense™.

The new Saab 9-5 is the first Saab to offer real time damping control through Saab DriveSense™, which includes a range of adjustments that helps the car adapt to the way it is being driven. In addition to the default ‘Intelligent’ mode, two further settings, ‘Sport’ and ‘Comfort’, can be selected via a rotary knob next to the gearshift.

In real time, ‘Intelligent’ mode adjusts the car’s handling characteristics in response to the driving style. It continually varies the stiffness rates of the electronically-controlled dampers, the action of the electronic throttle and the degree of power steering assistance. For example, when the car is being driven in a sporty style, the action of the dampers is automatically stiffened to improve body control and roadholding; the throttle pedal movement is shortened for a faster response and steering assistance is reduced for a more direct feel. At reduced speeds, the dampers are softened for greater ride comfort, the action of the throttle pedal becomes less aggressive and the steering feels lighter.

The ‘Sport’ setting introduces a firmer range of adjustment for the dampers, offering even greater body control. In addition to sharpening the throttle pedal response and reducing the level of power steering assistance, ‘Sport’ mode also raises the gear shifting points with automatic transmission and sends more drive torque to the rear wheels when Saab XWD™ is fitted.

By contrast, ‘Comfort’ mode, optimises ride refinement by enabling a softer range of adjustment for the dampers and a smoother throttle pedal action. It provides enhanced compliance over rough road surfaces and is the most appropriate setting for optimum fuel economy.

Variable Effort Steering (VES).

When manoeuvring, parking or driving at low speeds, VES increases the level of power assistance in order to reduce steering effort. At higher speeds, hydraulic assistance is automatically reduced to ensure a high degree of steering ‘feel‘ for the driver.

VES uses an electro-magnetic motor on the steering rack, controlled by a coil, to boost or reduce the level of hydraulic assistance. VES also adapts to the speed at which the steering wheel is turned, providing progressively increased assistance the faster the wheel is rotated. The system makes a contribution to reduced fuel consumption by giving hydraulic assistance only when needed. VES is fitted as standard with Saab XWD™ and Saab DriveSense™.

Advanced Park Assist (APA).

A smart feature enabling the driver to parallel park in tight spaces only one metre longer than the car’s own length. APA uses ultrasonic sensors in the front, rear and side of the vehicle. The system detects a suitable parking spot and then plots a perfect reverse parking trajectory. The driver is instructed how to turn the steering wheel via icons in the main instrument display and audible chimes.

Chassis technology.

Chassis systems and technologies are focussed on delivering a sporty driving experience. The mechanical suspension layouts, for example, are tailored to match the differing performance characteristics. Different suspension combinations are factory-fitted according to engine power and are also available with a sport chassis setting.

Advanced Infotainment System.

Offering a wide range of state-of-the-art features as standard, onboard infotainment breaks new ground for Saab. These include a top-of-the-line harman/kardon® system with true 5.1 surround sound reproduction. The 8-inch touchscreen navigation system also includes a bird’s eye map view and hard disc drive storage for map and audio data.

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Audio source selection has never been more versatile. In addition to the AM/FM radio, the driver can play music directly from a CD, insert an MP3 player or memory stick into the USB connector, or even store 10 GB of favourite tracks on a built-in hard drive – all with full control via the faceplate and steering wheel. The USB connector is located conveniently alongside an AUX connector and 12V power outlet in the centre console. The USB ‘wires’ the device to the car and offers instant control through the audio system, the in-car display showing the song title, artist and album information.

In the rear, passengers can enjoy their own entertainment through a dedicated unit in the back of the centre console.

Two 8-inch screens fold out laptop style from the seatbacks. Entertainment options include individual audio and DVD selection plus the extra flexibility of using a games console or digital camera, connected to the AUX input. Sound is provided by wireless headphones.

Communication while on the move is supported by an integrated Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, which functions via voice command and steering wheel controls.

Start/Stop Button and Keyless Entry/Exit.

Standard throughout the range, a start/stop button replaces the conventional ignition switch. In Saab tradition, it is located between the seats next to the gearshift. The engine control unit detects and authenticates a coded signal from driver’s fob and the engine can be started or stopped by simply pressing the start/stop button. For even greater convenience, a keyless entry/exit system is also fully integrated. This allows the car to be automatically unlocked when the door handle is pulled while the fob is still in the driver’s pocket or handbag. The car can also be automatically locked when the driver leaves it by simply touching the lock area of the door handle. This ease-of-use feature removes the need to press the unlock/lock buttons on the standard fob.

Innovative boot storage.

An optional, U-shaped track in the floor carries an adaptable, telescopic cargo divider. The concept is an evolution of the cargo tracks offered on the previous generation 9-5 SportCombi. This fast and flexible storage solution can keep a wide range of different sized items in place. The boot is also fitted with bag carrying hooks and an umbrella holder.

Dimensions

The new Saab 9-5 sedan sits on a wheelbase of 2,837 mm. The length, width and height are; 5,008 mm, 2,114 mm (including external rear view mirrors) and 1,467 mm respectively.

Five Star EuroNCAP Safety Rating.

Vehicle safety in the new Saab 9-5 builds on Saab’s successful real-life safety philosophy. Crash testing and computer simulations are based on what happens in real collisions on real roads, using the findings of a database covering more than 6,100 real-life accidents involving Saab cars in Sweden. In this way, the development of the new Saab 9-5 has drawn on all Saab’s experience with real-life safety accumulated over more than 50 years. Saab safety engineers are always aware that their ultimate goal is protecting real people, not only dummies in laboratory crash tests. Real-life safety means the structural design of the car, and the operation of its safety systems, are evaluated through a large number of in-house crash tests which are additional to those legally required or carried out by consumer test organisations.

The success of this work is reflected in surveys of real-life collisions by the US Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) and the Swedish Folksam insurance company, where Saab cars have consistently scored well, several times being ranked best in their segment. In common with all Saab current models, the new Saab 9-5 has achieved a maximum five-star EuroNCAP rating.

In addition to the full complement of occupant safety systems already installed in Saab cars, the new Saab 9-5 includes upgraded third generation Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR 3) as standard for the front seats and adds rear side airbags, together with pre-tensioning of the outer rear seatbelts.

Active safety is also improved by functions such as Bi-Xenon Smart Beam, Pilot HUD and Advanced Park Assist, as described earlier. ESC is fitted as standard across the range and rear LED brake lights flash under heavy braking to warn following drivers.

According to Saab, now is the time to experience a different perspective.


NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices, fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the specifications.


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