Of course the opportunity to avoid an accident is better yet, assisted by the 9-5's superb handling dynamics. Its fully-independent suspension consists of MacPherson struts with twin-tube gas shock absorbers and anti-roll bar up front, plus a multilink set up with anti-roll bars in the rear. The rear axle incorporates a rubber suspended central beam, plus one longitudinal and two transverse link arms for each wheel. Improving adhesion further, standard electronic traction control (TCS) and the optional anti-skid and stability-enhancing Electronic Stability Program (ESP) help to maintain optimal control when the road gets slippery. Add the standard P215/55R16 all-season radials on 16-inch aluminum wheels, 10-spoke with the linear and 5-spoke with the Arc, or P225/45WR17 tires on 17-inch 10-spoke BBS alloys that come with the Aero package, and the 9-5 is pure entertainment.
And after a week in both the mid-priced Arc and the top-of-the-line Aero I have to admit Saab delivers daily entertainment in a well appointed, beautifully made sedan. The 9-5 is different for sure, but so is Bill Gates and he didn't do too badly. After all, being quirky is cool, didn't you know?
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP):$41,500 - $60,035
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout:Front engine, FWD
- Base Engine: 185 hp, 206 lb-ft torque (184 lb-ft with auto), 2.3-L, I-4
- Optional Engine: 200 hp, 229 lb-ft torque, 3.0-L, V6 light-pressure turbo
- Optional Engine: 250 hp, 258 lb-ft torque, 2.3-L, I-4 high-pressure turbo
- Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 5-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Performance (0-100 km/h): 6.8 seconds (Aero with manual)
- Cargo Capacity (trunk):450 L (15.9 cu ft)
- Curb Weight: 1,565 kg (3,450 lb)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.1 / 7.1 L/100 km (Linear with manual)
- Warranty: 4-year/80,000 km comprehensive
- Competitors: Acura 3.2 TL, Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti I35, Jaguar S-Type, Lexus ES 300, Mazda Millenia, Mercedes-Benz E Class, Nissan Maxima, VW Passat, Volvo S60
- Web Site: www.gmcanada.com
