2003 Saab 9-5 Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$35,010 to $40,420

Original MSRP

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expert review

4.2

avg user rating

(17 reviews)
2003 Saab 9-5 Preview summaryImage

After substantial upgrades for the 2002 model year, the Saab 9-5 receives just a few updates for 2003. Saab's Sentronic manual-shifter is now included with all five-speed automatic transmissions, and a new electronic stability control system is standard across the board.

The trim levels, body styles and engine options are unaltered for 2003. The sedan and wagon return, and both are still available in Linear, Arc, and Aero finishes.

The three Saab 9-5 engine options increase in power as the trim level ascends, although both the base and top tier models are powered by a small 2.3 liter engine. The base Linear uses this turbocharged 2.3 liter inline four, which supplies 185 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. The Arc houses 3.0 liter V-6, which generates 200 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. The Aero is also powered by a 2.3 liter four cylinder engine, but with a more powerful turbo boost here. The Aero's engine produces 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Linear and Aero models come with a five-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic transmission. The Arc's V-6 is mated with the five-speed automatic. The 2.3 liter-powered 9-5s have EPA estimates of 20/30 for the automatic and 21/31 mpg for the manual, while the Arc's V-6 achieves 18/26 mpg.

Safety continues to be one of the 9-5's top selling points, according to reviewers and owners. Other positive attributes include a soft and stable highway ride, gas mileage, seat comfort and distinctive styling.

Many test drivers have reported that the 9-5 does not offer a suspension system ideal for all driving conditions. The Linear and Arc models' suspension is tuned a bit soft for a true sporting feel, while the Aero's stiffer system might be a little harsh for many drivers. Linear and Arc models are clearly a better choice for those in need of luxury feel, as ride quality is well-protected from most bumps and thumps. Unfortunately, body lean will be more noticeable to those who attempt to drive this models aggressively through the turns.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 2003 Saab 9-5

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User rating:
by Anonymous
Jul 14, 2013
The luxury sport sedan. Options loaded. 150mph car. Smooth ride. Incredible handling. Rides like Cadillac runs like Camaro. Have several performance mods on mine. New turbo, custom exhaust, performance air to air intercooler, custom intake with 5psi supercharge air induction & Jpm piping, & 17" wheelsJul 14, 2013
by John S
May 17, 2012
Very fast for a sedan, braking and handling are great. Does not squeak or rattle anywhere on the car. Looks amazing, love the leather interior and moonroof. It's not the cheapest car, but you definitely get what you pay for.May 17, 2012
by Anonymous
Apr 20, 2012
Overall this car has been great to own, compared to others i have had in the past. Nothing hardly ever goes wrong with the car, but when it does, it's expensive to fix. It's as solid as a new car, no squeaks or rattles and rides like it just off showroom floor. It handles like it is on rails, and moves like the wind when you plant your foot down. Winter mode let me pass 4x4 vehicles in the snow and sport mode let me pass like a rocket, while normal driving is such effortless driving. This is one of the best cars i have ever owned, even my friends are jealous.Apr 20, 2012

2003 Saab 9-5 Pricing

Original MSRP
$35,010 to $40,420
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

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: auto-dimming · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic

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: 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

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: auto-dimming · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic

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: 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 · Ventilated: front

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: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Headlights: Xenon

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: auto-dimming

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Safety

Parking sensors: rear

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather · Ventilated: front

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: 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: rain sensing

See all trims (6)