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2002 Saab 9-5 Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$34,620 to $39,975

Original MSRP

--

expert review

4.4

avg user rating

(7 reviews)
2002 Saab 9-5 Preview summaryImage

The 2002 model year brings several mechanical enhancements and trim level adjustments to Saab's mid-size sedan. Most revisions focus on the 9-5's performance. Highlights include more responsive steering, a new electronic traction control system, improved suspension, and more horsepower on the sporty Aero models. Saab has also added an adaptive front airbag system and an optional five-speed automatic transmission.

The 2.3t and SE trim names have been dropped. The base level 9-5 is now called the Linear, and the mid-level model has been renamed the Arc. The top tier Aero trim returns with the same name. All three trims are available with both the sedan and wagon bodies. Despite several notable improvements, the 9-5 prices changed little between 2001 and 2002.

There are three engines available with the 9-5, and all are dependent on the trim level. The Linear houses a 2.3 liter inline four, turbocharged for 185 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. The Arc inherits the SE's 3.0 liter V-6, which generates 200 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. Like the Linear, the sporty Aero is powered by a 2.3 liter four cylinder engine, but a more powerful turbo produces 250 horsepower, up 20 horses from 2001, and 258 pound-feet of torque here. Linear and Aero buyers can choose between a five-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic transmission. The Arc's V-6 can only be paired with the five-speed automatic.

Saab's 9-3 and 9-5 sedans and wagons continue to receive considerable praise for strong fuel economy, considering the ample power supply. The 2.3 liter-powered 9-5s have EPA estimates of 20/30 for the automatic and 21/31 mpg for the manual. The less efficient Arc gets 18 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on the highway. Drivers report mixed driving miles-per-gallon in the low to mid 20s.

The 9-5 has also been acclaimed for its new and improved automatic transmission, responsive steering, solid handling, and abundant cabin room. The 9-5 continues to earn low marks for value-in-class and reliability. Reviewers have commented that Saab's sedan now seems a bit antiquated compared to steadily emerging European competitors, and owners continue to caution prospective buyers about the frequency, cost and frustrations associated with Saab service. However, the 9-5 still offers a unique interior and exterior design, which continues to attract new buyers.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
Sometimes our content pages are the result of a team effort. As with all CarGurus editorial, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 2002 Saab 9-5

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User rating:
by Chris F
Oct 28, 2011
In 2002, I finally became a Saab driver. Growing up in the Northeast, I always had a soft spot for the brand, and felt that the virtues of a Saab suited my personality. Namely, the fact that they were individualistic, cleverly packaged, fuel efficient, quick, comfortable, and sturdy. My 9- 5 was a great car. I had a few quirks along the way, but all were covered under warranty, such as a blocked climate control system, and head leaky head gasket at 49k. I always received great dealer service, and truly enjoyed the car.Oct 28, 2011
by Anonymous
Aug 31, 2010
Good: Fun to drive! Factory stereo is awesome! Transmission sport mode turns car into sports car...really. Acceleration very nice. Interior is very nice. Leather stays like new for several years. Seats very comfortable. Bad: Needs timing belt changed every 60k miles vice 80-100 for other cars. Brake dust a problem...it gets everywhere. Head lights burn too hot melts/wears out plastic housings. No option to turn head lights off...if the car is on the lights are on. On-star is analog, outdated.Aug 31, 2010
by Anonymous
Jul 28, 2010
It runs well, great pulling power speed. The body shape is great. Unfortunately, the fuel consumption is not very efficient considering it is 4cylinders. It has heated seats, leather interior and lots of other attractive features inside. If well maintained it can be a fun car to drive.Jul 28, 2010

2002 Saab 9-5 Pricing

Original MSRP
$34,620 to $39,975
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
N/A
YoY price change
N/A

Trims & specs

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front and rear · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front and rear · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Xenon

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Safety

Parking sensors: rear

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: rain sensing

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Xenon

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Safety

Parking sensors: rear

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: rain sensing

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Xenon

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Safety

Parking sensors: rear

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Xenon

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Safety

Parking sensors: rear

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (6)
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