2006 Saab 9-5 Review
Price: $7,995
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Long list of standard features, exceptionally supportive front seats, plenty of cargo space, simple controls.
Cons
- Turbo four lacks refinement, ride can be harsh at times, torque steer under hard acceleration, excessive wind noise, some low-grade interior materials, no rear-seat airbags.
What’s new
The 2006 model year brings a refresh to the Saab 9-5, as the company hopes to extend its life cycle several more years. Highlights include an exterior face-lift, a retuned suspension, a new control layout and a price cut of about $2,000. The familiar Linear, Arc and Aero trim levels are history, as the sedan and wagon come in one model apiece. The wagon is now called the SportCombi as on the 9-3 line. Equipment is similar to last year's Arc model, though 17-inch wheels and the high-output version of the 2.3-liter turbo four are now standard. A revised intake results in 10 extra horsepower for a total of 260. The old Aero's sport suspension is optional.
Edmunds says
An anachronism in the premium midsize class, the 9-5 sedan and wagon will please buyers wanting the style and personality of a classic Saab car. In terms of performance, luxury and overall refinement, however, the 2006 Saab 9-5 is frequently outclassed by newer competitors.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
3 listings
- 132,474 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 18 City / 27 Hwy MPG, Manual
- IM Autohaus (20 mi away)
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Power Driver Seat
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
Close
Located in Falls Church, VA
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
22 Combined MPG (18 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: YS3EH45G863526243
Stock: 526243
Certified Pre-Owned: No- $4,791
- 181,635 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use
- 18 City / 27 Hwy MPG, Manual
- Crossroads Hyundai at Centera (1,459 mi away)
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Power Driver Seat
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
Close
Located in Loveland, CO
Vehicle DetailsDiscover a refined driving experience with this 2006 Saab 9-5 2.3T, a stylish and comfortable sedan located in Loveland, CO. Powered by...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
22 Combined MPG (18 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: YS3ED49G363504687
Stock: P3294A
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-25-2026
Vehicle overview
Saab's first "large car" debuted as the 9000 in 1985. In typical Saab fashion, power came from a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, but in the 9000, it was mounted transversely to allow for a larger cabin. In 1993, the 9000 Aero debuted in the States with a 225-horsepower turbocharged engine, making it the fastest Saab car in the lineup. When the completely redesigned model finally arrived in 1999, the 9000 became the Saab 9-5. It still retained much of its predecessor's distinctive lines, but replaced the roomy five-door hatchback design with a more traditional four-door sedan arrangement (a wagon was also introduced).
In 2002, the Saab 9-5 received a midcycle refresh that further refined both the sedan and wagon to help them better compete with their illustrious competition. Changes included more power, a retuned suspension, revised styling and additional feature content. The model lineup was also simplified into three distinct "architectural forms" in Saab's words. The base "Linear" model was classic Scandinavian-stark, the midlevel "Arc" model was more luxurious and the top-of-the-line "Aero" was the sportiest model.
For 2006, Saab has given the 9-5 another refresh in an attempt to stretch the car's life cycle several more years. Highlights include a prominent new grille, projector-beam headlights with smoked lenses, body-color exterior trim, a reworked chassis, a new control layout and a price cut of about $2,000. The familiar Linear, Arc and Aero trim levels have been eliminated, as the sedan and wagon now come in one model apiece. The wagon is now called the SportCombi as on the 9-3 line. Equipment is similar to last year's Arc model, though 17-inch wheels and a 260-hp version of the 2.3-liter turbo four are now standard. The old Aero's lowered sport suspension is now optional.
Out on the road, the suspension improvements result in less body roll during cornering than before, as well as a smooth ride quality overall. However, the Saab 9-5 still strikes us as a car that's in need of a full redesign, not just another update. The ride can still be harsh over bumps, and wind noise is excessive for a premium-brand car. In addition, the 2.3-liter engine no longer meets the standards for refinement in this class. Inside, the new control layout is a big improvement ergonomically, but some of the materials used in the cabin are glaringly out of place in a car with a mid-$30Ks sticker price. To make matters worse, the 2006 Saab 9-5 resides in a category filled with quality contenders. While the wagon (SportCombi) is still a reasonable choice for family use given its sizable cargo capacity, in general, the 9-5 is outclassed by its competition when it comes to luxury, performance and refinement. Those craving a classic Saab car may find it appealing, but we think that discerning buyers will find cars like the Acura TL, Subaru Legacy and Volkswagen Passat more satisfying overall.
Performance & mpg
A turbocharged, 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder rated for 260 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque is standard on all 9-5s. A standard five-speed manual transmission routes power to the front wheels. A five-speed automatic with sport and manual modes is optional.
Safety
All 9-5 models feature adaptive-force front airbags, active head restraints and front seat-mounted side airbags that protect the heads and torsos of front occupants. No airbag protection is available for rear occupants. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and stability and traction control are standard on all models. In government crash testing, the 2006 Saab 9-5 earned a perfect five stars for driver and front-passenger protection in frontal impacts. In side-impact tests, the Saab car received five stars for front-occupant protection and four stars for the rear. The IIHS gave the 9-5 a "Good" rating (the best possible) in frontal-offset crash testing and named it a "Best Pick."
Driving
Once the turbo spools up, the 2.3-liter delivers plenty of power for this class, though not in as refined a manner as we'd like. Unlike most sport sedans and wagons, the Saab 9-5 is preferable with the automatic transmission, as its shorter gearing is better suited to the turbo engine's unusual power band. This year's chassis upgrades provide noticeably improved handling, and this along with the 9-5's relative low curb weight, gives it a nimble feel through corners. Competitors have sharper reflexes, though, and torque steer remains an issue under hard acceleration. Ride quality is smoother than before, though it's still a little harsh over bumps.
Interior
Most drivers will find the 9-5's seats exceptionally comfortable, especially those equipped with the optional heating and ventilation feature. Materials quality could use improvement in some spots, but passenger room is excellent all around. A split-folding rear seat and nearly 16 cubic feet of trunk space give the Saab 9-5 an added level of versatility. The SportCombi wagon supplies 37 cubes of luggage capacity with the rear seats in use and 73 cubes when they're folded.
2006 Saab 9-5 models
The midsize Saab 9-5 is available in two body styles -- sedan and wagon (SportCombi), each of which comes in one trim. Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/45R17 all-season tires, leather upholstery, walnut trim, heated power-adjustable seats with driver memory, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 240-watt Harman Kardon audio system with an in-dash CD changer, satellite radio, a sunroof, a heated 60/40-split folding rear seat, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. An optional sport package provides a lowered and stiffened suspension, bolstered sport seats and metallic dash trim. A visibility package adds bi-HID headlights, rear parking assist, auto-dimming exterior mirrors and rain-sensing wipers. Stand-alone extras include ventilated front seats, a DVD-based navigation system and General Motors' OnStar telematics system.

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Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners consistently appreciate the 2006 Saab 9-5 for its distinctive styling and driving pleasure. Many find the combination of sport and comfort to be a standout feature, with the car's impressive turbocharged engine offering exhilarating acceleration that keeps driving enthusiasts engaged. The 9-5's interior comfort, highlighted by supportive seats and practical features like seat ventilation, garners frequent praise from those who spend long hours behind the wheel. Additionally, the vehicle's safety features and sense of security round out a well-loved package that distinguishes the Saab 9-5 from its more common competitors.
Common Issues
Owners frequently encounter issues with interior quality and persistent rattles in the 2006 Saab 9-5. Vibrations at idle, stemming from the 2.3-liter engine, are a common complaint, often leading to additional rattles from various cabin parts. Wind noise at higher speeds also detracts from the premium feel one might expect at this price point. Furthermore, the vehicle exhibits torque steer under hard acceleration, affecting the overall driving experience, especially for those who favor spirited driving.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2006 Saab 9-5 proves to be a distinctive choice that aligns with daily driving satisfaction despite some minor drawbacks. Many find the vehicle delivers a balanced blend of power and comfort, particularly appreciating its performance on long highway journeys. Routine commutes become more enjoyable with supportive seating and an interior that prioritizes driver ergonomics. However, some drivers highlight concerns about material quality and occasional mechanical woes, hinting at a car that delights as much as it occasionally frustrates, offering a unique experience on every drive.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$244/mo for 9-5 Base
9-5 Base
vs
$228/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability
The 2006 Saab 9-5 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
2 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 16V063000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 28810 and
- Manufactured from:
- 2010-06-23 to 2011-02-21
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 113716
- Defect Description:
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. Recall letters informing owners that parts are not yet available were mailed on March 23, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
- Recall Number:
- 08V160000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- E080101/15
- Manufactured from:
- 2005-06-01 to 2006-07-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 57389
- Defect Description:
- SAAB IS RECALLING 57,389 MY 2002-2008 9-5 SERIES VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT." DURING COMPLIANCE TESTING, ONE OF THE UPPER INTERIOR OCCUPANT PROTECTION TEST POINTS EXCEEDED THE STANDARD'S REQUIREMENTS.
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, PERSONAL INJURY TO OCCUPANTS MAY OCCUR.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A-PILLAR TRIM WITH IMPROVED ENERGY-ABSORBING CAPABILITY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 25, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
Warranty
4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Saab 9-5 Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(79%)
4(19%)
3(0%)
2(2%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
First SAAB
4.38 out of 5 starsGerick, 05/12/2010
2006 Saab 9-5 4dr Sedan w/Sport Package (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
I have owned Acura, BMW, and VW. After test driving the above cars plus others, The 9-5 had the perfect balance of sport and luxury, comfort and elegance. Its a driver's car. You feel connected to the road which I enjoy experiencing. Above all, its a unique car which not every one has.
The Best of Exotic Cars
5 out of 5 starsMisha_from_Mpls, 02/06/2007
2006 Saab 9-5 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Having a degree in automotive engineering, I do respect innovation and technology. I looked at cars across several classes. Then I discovered the 9-5. The best look of 'this' side of most exotic Italian cars. Best balance of ride and comfort. Super smart engineering. 9-5 is smarter than you - make sure you read the manual and break in carefully. Only MB & Saab made through 1 mln mile … mark. Quality piece of machinery. Every unique feature has a purpose.
Saab 9.5 - best car I've ever had (I'm 66)
5 out of 5 starsGeeBee, 10/30/2006
2006 Saab 9-5 SportCombi 4dr Wagon w/Sport Package (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
My wife has driven about 30K miles/yr as a salesperson for 25 years, and NEEDS a comfortable, reliable, safe car. THIS IS IT! Super comfortable seats (sports pkg seats are even better than the std ones), and adjustable (in & out + up/dn) steering wheel fit her perfectly. And, at only 5'-2" she can now reach the gas pedal & still be a safe distance from the steering wheel's air bag. … The car has LOTS of other features we didn't expect, like super fast turbo acceleration, the seat air blowers, a GREAT stereo, and rather low, easy access to load from the rear door. And, it's almost as fun to drive as my Mini. Overall, it's simply the best car we've ever had - and we've had a LOT.
Jet Fighter with Cargo, uses Reg Gas!
5 out of 5 starsPaul F , 12/06/2006
2006 Saab 9-5 SportCombi 4dr Wagon w/Sport Package (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
If you're into performance and styling but need a wagon (for family) and conscious of gas price, then the Saab 9-5 Aero SportCombi tops them all. This car is meant to be driven so hang on (esp. Sports mode) - you'll feel the G force! Tremendous acceleration, agility, cargo, brakes and sound (Harman-Kardon). Drinks regular gas & retains performance. Recommend the Aero (Sports) & Safety … Pack - best value, everything except GPS. Great reliability. Only con: could use a bit more upgraded interior. Prev car: BMW-5 350i Euro.
2006 9-5 Features & Specs
Sedan
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $34,100 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $244/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.9 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the 9-5 include:
- Alarm
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintAcceptable
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