2010 Saab 9-5 Preview

Design

With the introduction of the redesigned 2010 9-5 sedan, Saab is clearly heading in a new direction in terms of vehicle design-one that makes a bold new statement yet still pays homage to the company's aircraft heritage. And while the company has kept its focus on a driver-oriented cockpit (complete with the vehicle's ignition between the seats), the most striking element of the new 9-5 is its exterior design, which includes a deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units; rear light bar; wraparound window glass; a falling roofline; fenders that "melt" into the wheels; and a recessed rear window. Frontal styling is inspired by the Aero X concept car, and the new 9-5 features some familiar Saab brand cues, such as the "hockey stick" belt line.

Saab describes the interior design of the redesigned 2010 9-5 sedan as "simple forms (that) define its architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior." And while the cockpit is still driver-focused, according to the company, its execution is all new. The interior features a deep center console that sweeps up around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by ventilation outlets. Deeply recessed main dials include a rolling �altimeter' speed read-out, a reference to Saab's aviation heritage and featured in the Aero X concept. Driver displays, including the optional head-up display in the windshield, are predominantly illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance, the company says. The car's ignition, now a start/stop button, remains between the front seats, next to the gear shift, consistent with company tradition. The new design also adds passenger comfort, as front and rear leg and shoulder room are increased compared to the current-generation 9-5.

Powertrain
Saab will offer at launch a choice of 4- or 6-cylinder engines in the redesigned 9-5 sedan-all turbocharged, and all connected to a 6-speed transmission. Four-cylinder diesel and gasoline engines come in 2.0-liter displacement, offering 160 (diesel) and 220 (gasoline) horsepower. A 2.8-liter gasoline V-6 will also be available, generating 300 horsepower and offered exclusively with Saab's XWD all-wheel-drive system. Shortly after launch, Saab says a small, 1.6-liter gasoline turbo with 180 horsepower will be introduced, together with a 2.0-liter BioPower E85-capable engine.

Saab's XWD, the all-wheel-drive system currently available on the Saab 9-3, is offered with the 2.0-liter gasoline, BioPower and V-6 engines. Available on all 2010 Saab 9-5 sedan models is driver-selectable adaptive chassis control, operated via the vehicle's DriveSense controls. Two different suspension layouts are factory-fitted according to engine power and both are available with a sport chassis setting.

Technology

In addition to its new design, the redesigned 2010 Saab 9-5 sport sedan features an array of high-tech features, including an aircraft-like, head-up information display (Pilot HUD); adaptive lighting (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); adaptive cruise control; Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; keyless entry and starting; tri-zone air conditioning; dynamic parking assistance; and Saab XWD with a rear eLSD.

Infotainment choices include a top-of-the-line Harman/Kardon surround sound audio system and an 8-inch touch-screen navigation system with hard disk storage for map data and 10 GB of jukebox-style music files. A large center console provides stowage and connections for several portable devices through USB and Aux ports alongside a 12V power outlet.

Rear passengers can access their own audio or watch a DVD. The rear-seat entertainment unit in the back of the center console accommodates audio controls and fold-out viewing screens are installed in the front seatbacks. Wired and wireless headphones are also provided. The rear-seat entertainment unit also includes twin air vents and an independent temperature control for the rear cabin, in addition to the dual-zone air conditioning up front.