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Saab launch new 9-5 in Frankfurt

Frankfurt held the debut of Saab's new 9-5, a car that sees the marque continuing to produce large, practical and comfortable executive saloons that appeal to those looking for something a little different. The 9-5 plays on some of the maker's core values: unique looks, comfort, safety and a line-up of turbocharged engines.

Looks-wise the dominant feature of the new 9-5 is its nose. It looks like nothing else on sale with a prominent chromed slatted grille in the centre flanked with two smaller similar shapes that envelop the lights. It certainly won't be to all tastes, but it is very different and Saab says that this is the first outing of a new design direction. The flanks and rear-end are more conservative with clean and smooth lines looking to underline Saab's expertise of aerodynamics.

Under the new shell is an extensive line up of turbocharged engines including diesel, petrol and ethanol fuelled variants. The range topping Aero now packs 260bhp backed up with a stonking 273lb.ft of torque available on overboost. Other petrol versions are rated at 150, 185 and 220bhp with a 150bhp/236lb.ft 1.9-litre diesel and a 180bhp two-litre turbo ethanol unit completing the line up, though it is not likely that the ethanol version will come to the UK.

Saab is promising much improved dynamic performance and driving enjoyment courtesy of chassis changes including new damper settings, roll bars and springs along with sharper steering. The Aero gets bespoke settings to reflect its more sporting character.

As is the norm with Saab, safety is also at the forefront of the model changes with the 9-5 achieving top rankings in crash tests. The usual set of airbags is coupled to Saab's active head restraint system that aims to reduce neck and back injuries in an impact. The 9-5 also features the full range of electronic driver aids as well as the innovative night vision and "Saabcom" that reduce the workload of the driver by removing unnecessary visual clutter from the driver's line of sight and thus reduce distractions.

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