Revised styling, antiskid traction control system, 5-speed automatic transmission with a 200-hp V6 keynote 2002 additions to Saab's flagship. The 9-5 "Arc" (prior to '02 were termed "SE") have front-wheel drive, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front torso side airbags - providing head protection, and the OnStar assistance system.

Acceleration: The addition of the smooth-shifting 5-speed automatic improves acceleration and passing response--especially with the V6 models.

Fuel Economy: In tests of 2001 models, the V6 averaged 20 mpg. Expect highway fuel economy to improve with the addition of the 5-speed automatic: 18/26. Saab recommends 93 octane fuel for the Arc.

Ride Quality: 9-5s suspension iron out broken pavement and thumpy freeways alike with a firm ride, isolating all but the worst disturbances.

Steering/Handling/Braking: Secure and predictable. Braking is swift, powerful, consistent. Improved structural rigidity for 2002 reduces torque steer and gives the steering a more natural feel.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front): Plenty of room. Seats are substantial and supportive. Manual tilt/telescope steering wheel is standard. Ventilated front seats are cooled from within by small fans.

Room/Comfort (rear): Fine head and leg room. Seat is nicely contoured and supportive, but probably too narrow for three large adults.

Cargo Room: Large trunk has a pass-through with split-fold rear seatbacks.

Value within Class: The longevity of the Saab 9-5 design makes it a rarity in the luxury class with the Arc, and the 5-speed automatic, emerging as the best all-around model.

NHTSA Crash Test Results: Crash Test, Driver 5 / Passenger 5*

(*) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tests a vehicle's crashworthiness in front/side-impacts and resistance to rollovers. A "5" rating is the highest possible rating.

Summary: Why spend so much extra money on a BMW or a Lexus? The American public needs to discover this treasure. The Saab 9-5 Arc is solid, roomy, has a powerful turbo, and a quality feel.

Product Rating:		Recommended:	Yes
Reliability:		Amount New:	$34,000
Comfort:		Condition:	New
Roominess:		Model Year:	2002
Model & Options:	ARC, 5-speed automatic, moon/sun roof, leather

The Full Review: I bought a 2002 Saab 9-5 Arc in August '02. Beforehand, I also considered the BMW 5 series, the Lexus GS, and the Lexus ES.

I test drove all four cars. The Saab 9-5 felt like a combination of the other three. It had the tight controlled feel of the BMW without the harshness. It added some of the softness of the Lexus, but with more road feel. Like the slogan says, "Most people who test drive a Saab usually buy one."

The Arc has a 6 cylinder turbo engine. It is quiet and has a great deal of torque. If you engage the "sport" setting on the transmission, there is more power than you'll ever need. I noticed no turbo lag on the Saab.

The interior is very roomy for five people. Even the middle rear seat is comfortable. All seats are heated, including the rear. Both front seats have a wonderful ventilation system. I never thought I would use it, but what a blessing in the summer. The fans in the seats add a bit of noise to the interior, but not at all objectionable. The stereo is fantastic. The cup holder in the front is an ingenious design that folds out like a butterfly. I wish there were two of them instead of one. All controls are easy to reach. There is a "night vision" instrument panel which allows you black out all panel lights except the speedometer. This is a great feature on a very dark country road. The Saab's interior leather has the nicest leather smell of any car I have ever been in. The Saab 9-5 is a great value.

Please contact Chris for more information or to take a test drive:

E-Mail:	chris@lighthousecolorprint.com
Phone:	(269) 428-7062