Saab 9-5

1265 Changes Place Saab 9-5 in New League 

Saab has announced revisions to the 9-5 range for 2002. According to a Saab release, the result of the 1265 changes is a more solid and sporty car than the first Saab model.

Most of the 2002 model year changes to the Saab 9-5 are related to major development of the chassis, a new electronic stability programme (ESP), a new 5-speed automatic transmission, an upgrade of the Aero engine to 184 kW, a new bi-xenon lighting system, new adaptive technology for the frontal airbags, and interior as well as exterior design refinements.

According to Saab, the result of the 1265 changes is a more solid and sporty car. Saab designers decided to stay close to the car’s basic appearance on the outside, although the finish is smoother and the shapes are more integrated. The front bumper extends another 20 mm forwards to enhance the more aerodynamic aspects of the front end.

Previous model designations have been replaced by a new programme, inspired by Swedish architecture, called “Forms”. These are dubbed “Arc”, Vector” and “Aero”.

The Arc reflects a modern interpretation of the classic Saab style. Natural creases in the leather upholstery combined with a satin finish light walnut wood dashboard facing, provide a more contemporary look and feel.

The two engine choices of this form for the South African market are the recently upgraded 136 kW, 2.3t Ecopower unit as well as the 147 kW, 3.0 V6 turbo. The latter engine choice is coupled with an automatic transmission only and a higher level of interior features as standard equipment.   

The Vector - which is also powered by a choice of 2.3t Ecopower or 3.0 V6 turbo motor - exudes performance and dynamics. Exterior refinements include side sill mouldings and a lower front air dam that extends more aggressively downward to underscore the sporting character of this form. The interior is equipped with sport leather/textile combination seats (full hide is optional) and a metallic trim dash facing.

According to Saab, the ultimate expression of Saab turbo performance is reserved for the Aero model. Power from the 2.3 Turbo engine is boosted by 10 percent offering 184 kW in both manual and automatic transmission, whilst the torque remains at 350 Nm at 1900 r/min for both variants. An important part of the performance enhancement is the new 5 speed automatic transmission that has been tuned specifically to the 9-5 Aero.

The chassis of the new 9-5 has been greatly improved, resulting in better handling and balance.

One of the new key safety features is an adaptive technology for the front airbags. The airbags are designed to inflate with different pressures depending on the severity and conditions of the crash. The action of the seatbelts is adapted accordingly and the compression force and deformation behaviour of the steering column has been re-tuned. This system improves the Real-Life-Safety of every new Saab and already meets regulations that will only come into practice two years from now.

The 2002 range of Saab cars include the Saab Vehicle Plan which has been extended to 3 years/75 000 km.