SECOND-HAND SENSE: Saab has never really featured prominently in the executive car list of options. The big names of Mercedes, BMW, Audi and Jaguar still have the market pretty much cornered.
There are signs, however, of Saab's star rising after a long time on the sideline as people begin to look for something a little more distinctive.
Perhaps Saab suffered from a perception that its cars are dull and boring but safe. There is an irony here because at one stage Saab had a reputation for outperforming the competition through its pioneering work in turbo technology.
The marque's design philosophy has always been rather sober but not dull, and its safety record is certainly unparalleled.
The 9-5, the biggest of the Saab family, has been around for a good seven years now. It has been steadily improving too. Ride and handling are better than what went before and the car has evolved into a solid presence in its class - not just in build quality but also in its road presence. Its strong European looks give the 9-3 quite a commanding profile.
The range of engines includes a 2-litre petrol, 2.3- and 2.2-litre diesels and a 3-litre petrol. Sadly, the 2-litre petrol entry-level model, even with a light pressure turbo, is not the nippiest performer of the bunch. Saabs are not known for lightweight build.
Driving qualities are good. It always delivers an assured if unexciting experience. Some say the steering can be a bit light.
The 9-5 is really distinguished by its space and comfort. Great big seats, good deep boot, really functional and ergonomically designed cabin and dashboard all contribute to a feeling of sheltered isolation.
Add to this the safety array, including multiple airbags, ABS, traction control and the highest ever ratings in the EuroNCAP crash tests and you won't be a nervous driver or passenger. Where others follow, Saab leads when it comes to safety. One of the reasons for its high EuroNCAP rating is the fact that head protection is provided by a seat-mounted thorax airbag to help prevent head injuries for driver and passenger.
Saab has a pretty good record and the 9-5 has not been a troublesome car. There have been limited recalls - but no general ones - for things such as possible movement of front seats and steering problems.
There are not that many 9-5s on the used market because of their relative lack of popularity and their initial pricing. A four-year-old 2-litre petrol with 35,000 on the clock and a good range of extras has an asking price of €20,500, while a similar two-year-old model with 30,000 miles asks €28,950. These are not bargain prices but they do represent value for money when you consider the range of extra equipment. ... - DONAL BYRNE