Frankfurt debut: Saab 9-5
Despite the turmoil surrounding who would actually own the rights to this car during the latter stage of its development, the Saab 9-5 is here - and it's looking swell.
What's all the fuss about?
It's been over a dozen years since the current Saab 9-5 was launched, during which time it's been trounced by just about everything else in its sector, and had to put up with a some slightly embarrassing chrome treatment during its midlife crisis. This new one is hardly an executive car revolution, but should improve on the old car in every way and return the 9-5 to its niche as a respectable alternative. All the talk at Frankfurt is of organic, Scandinavian design and aircraft heritage, but we'll let you make up your own mind.
Anything that stands out?
Stand out? Not really, but to be fair the 9-5 reeks of a quality product, and if the maker is to be believed, it will have the dynamic clout to match the class best when it hits the roads, courtesy of a 'DriveSense' adaptive chassis with active damping. Saab has stuck with front-wheel drive, though four-wheel drive is an option for faster cars - of which there are a few: engines range from a 1.6-litre turbo with 178bhp to a 296bhp 2.8-litre V6 turbo, badged Aero. There's a 158bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel too, boasting just 139g/km and 53.3mpg.
When can I buy one?
From early 2010, though Saab hasn't told us anything about pricing yet, saying it will do so nearer the on-sale date. We'd expect an aggressive strategy though, so that Saab can re-establish itself as a major player in the premium car segment, particularly given the woes of parent company GM.
Frankfurt debut: Saab 9-5 pictures
