Saab 9-5

Saab 9-5 - The Saab 9-5 Aero is well-equipped with items such as automatic climate control, a power sunroof, power front heated seats, leather upholstery and cruise control. However, a 5-speed manual gearbox with a rather rubbery shifter is standard. A 5-speed automatic transmission is optional, plus you also get ventilated leather upholstery, heated rear seats and an upscale sound system.

The Aero has the hottest engine, stronger brakes, special suspension with ultra-wide high-performance tires on light alloy wheels and bolstered front sport seats. Newly available for the Aero are the ventilated front seats, which make hot weather driving more comfortable. They have electric fans that draw cooling air in through perforations in the leather.

Although the Koenigsegg deal had lately collapsed, everyone was hopeful GM would still find a buyer. It was the staff’s last day before the Christmas break. Then just before home-time, word went round that GM had decided to close Saab down. As oh-shit moments go, that was pretty epic.

In fact, through tight bends, the diesel feels more agile, because it doesn’t have the mass of the extra cylinders or 4WD kit. But it does without the fancy suspension too: it has ordinary MacPherson struts at the front, and fewer arms at the rear. This was a decision taken in the GM days when Saab could pick’n'mix stuff from the GM parts set. But now it’s independent, Saab ought to simplify its purchasing and put the best suspension design on all versions. That would sharpen up the steering, improve the ride, and mean that the dull chassis on the base versions won’t kill the reputation of the posher ones. And stop the taunts of ‘Underneath it’s just an Insignia’.Saab 9-5

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