2008 Saab 9-5

Saab is a now-defunct Swedish automotive manufacturer that became known in the 1980s for safety and small turbocharged engines. General Motors acquired the brand in 2000 and turned it into another GM division. Although all models shared some designs, parts, and technology with other GM products, some Saabs were “Saabier” than others. The 9-7X, for example, was essentially a rebadged Chevrolet TrailBlazer with its ignition moved to the center console. GM sold Saab during its late-2000s bankruptcy. Later, it was briefly owned by Spyker Automobiles and then National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS). Saab’s last vehicles were the 2011 9-5 sedan, which had a lot in common with the Buick Lacrosse, and the 2011 9-4X, which shared its underlying design with the Cadillac SRX. As with many defunct brands, owners have reported difficulties obtaining replacement parts for these models, which were only built in small numbers.

Saab's 9-5 is a competent car with capable and secure handling. The ride is firm and compliant, but road noise is pronounced. The turbocharged 2.3-liter, 170-hp four-cylinder (185 hp from 2000 on) provides ample acceleration. The 3.0-liter, 200-hp V6 is smoother, quieter, and stronger. A higher-performance 230-hp Aero model was added for 2000. Aside from styling updates the 9-5 was largely unchanged through 2009.