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THE SAAB 9-5 RANGE GAINS A SPORTIER DIMENSION FOR 2004

THE SAAB 9-5 RANGE GAINS A SPORTIER DIMENSION FOR 2004

At next week’s IAA Frankfurt Motor Show Saab will reveal an enhanced 9-5 Saloon and Estate range for 2004. Highlights include:

New, more distinctive styling features for top-of-the-line 9-5 Aero models
New 220 bhp 2.3T turbo engine in 9-5 Linear, Arc and Vector forms
Interior and exterior trim improvements
New seat-belt reminder function
5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating
More distinctive and sporty 9-5 Aero styling:

The 250 bhp, 2.3 High Output Turbo Saab 9-5 Aero remains the UK’s best selling upper-premium performance saloon and estate model range. For 2004 these sporting 9-5 flagships are given more distinctive sporting looks, inside and out, which further define the character and strong performance of these popular, tax-efficient models.

Sharper styling for the front and rear bumpers, incorporating matt black grille inserts, and re-profiled sill extensions give both the Aero Saloon and Estate variants a lower, more aggressive stance, further underlining their sporting intentions. These are complemented by the addition of new, five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels – inspired by those first seen on the Saab 9X concept car – and smaller, ‘jewel effect' front fog lights.

Inside, contrasting black inserts for the seat squabs, backrests and door panels, distinguish the sports leather upholstery. The door handles are finished in matt chrome, and a black, carbon fibre facia insert is now offered as an option.

New 220 bhp engine choice

The Saab 9-5 range is strengthened for 2004 by the addition of a 220 bhp, 2.3T four-cylinder turbo engine choice for Linear, Arc and Vector specifications. The new 2.3T replaces the previous 200 bhp 3.0V6t engine, and offers improvements in performance, fuel economy and reduced CO2 levels (212 g/km), and slots in the 9-5 line-up between the current 2.0t (150 bhp), 2.3t (185 bhp) and 2.3 HOT Aero (250 bhp) offerings.

In common with all other 9-5 petrol engines, the new 2.3T is a highly responsive unit, delivering strong torque at low engine speeds for safer overtaking, and a smooth driving experience requiring fewer gearchanges. It is not necessary to maintain high engine speeds for strong performance because turbocharging ensures that exceptional torque is readily available between 2,000-4,000 rpm, the engine speeds used in everyday driving.

The 16-valve engine features direct ignition, Saab unique, in-house Trionic 7 engine management and counter-rotating balancer shafts for exceptional refinement. It produces 220 bhp at 5,500 rpm and impressive maximum torque of 310 Nm between 1,900 and 4,500 rpm.

With brisk acceleration (0-60 mph in 7.5 sec) and typically strong low/mid-range torque (5.9 sec for 40-60 mph in 4th gear), the new engine is available with 5-speed manual and Sentronic paddle shift automatic transmission. All 9-5 2.3T models are supplied as standard with TCS and ESP, as is the 176 bhp, 3.0 V6 TiD diesel unit for 2004.

Interior and exterior improvements

The Saab 9-5's spacious cabin is given a fresher look with the introduction of lighter grey leather upholstery, which replaces charcoal. The facia top is now also finished in matt black, instead of grey, to give a crisper, sportier appearance.

The 9-5’s Saab Information Display (SID) is updated with greater capacity and graphics similar to those found on the new 9-3 range. It also adopts the 9-3's seat-belt reminder function, which independently informs the driver and the front passenger of a non-belt usage, using tell-tales and audible warnings based on speed and time.

When it was first assessed under the Euro NCAP crash test programme, the Saab 9-5 achieved the highest score awarded at that time. Following the adoption of the new seat-belt reminder system, the Saab 9-5 has now been given a maximum 5-star Euro NCAP rating.

Externally, three new metallic colours are added to the 2004 9-5 ran