2012 & 2013 SAAB Sedan Reviews & Ratings

Saab has had quite the interesting history in the automotive world. Beginning in the 1940s in Sweden, the company later became a part of General Motors. It has since been let go by GM. While the company may not be faring as well as they once were, the cars that made the name continue to be popular among enthusiasts. As a company that began to build aircraft, much of the design over the years has included a trace back to those same roots. The first passenger car was not unveiled to the public ... (full review continues below)

Saab has had quite the interesting history in the automotive world. Beginning in the 1940s in Sweden, the company later became a part of General Motors. It has since been let go by GM. While the company may not be faring as well as they once were, the cars that made the name continue to be popular among enthusiasts. As a company that began to build aircraft, much of the design over the years has included a trace back to those same roots. The first passenger car was not unveiled to the public until 1947 and was not available for sale until 1949. It was around 1990 when General Motors acquired the majority shares of Saab and began producing everything from the Saab sedan to the SUV.

Saab was mostly known for coupes and roadsters in the early years. As a big contender on the racing circuit, there was not much room or need for a Saab sedan. However, in 1968 the company introduced the Saab 99 which would become their first sedan. The end of the 99 in 1984 would not signify the end of the sedan. Instead, the company would continue to produce more over the years that would gain in popularity around the world.

The Saab 9-3 did not begin its history as a Saab sedan. It wasn't until the second generation of 9-3 hit the market in 2002 when they offered a four door sedan model. It was launched at the North American International Auto Show in 2002 for the 2003 model year. Like most Saabs at the time, the 9-3 would be a front wheel drive. It also featured a 2.0 Liter straight four engine.

The 9-5 was another foray in the world of the Saab sedan. This larger, luxury version Saab was considered an executive car and was introduced in 1997. This was launched during the brief interlude when Saab was owned by Spyker cars. However, the concept of the 9-5 was developed during the time when GM owned the Saab badge. While the 9-5 is still in production, the sedan version was stopped in 2009. The 9-5 was the replacement to the Saab 9000 when it was introduced and was the first Saab vehicle that did not incorporate a long number as its title. The company felt the long numbers were outdated and wanted to find a way to shorten them up a bit. Their answer was to produce the 9-5.

While Saab is still well-known for their coupes and roadsters, especially for the success of them in rallies and races, their entrance into the sedan market did not go without fanfare. Those who wanted a Swedish vehicle but needed more space were appreciative of the inclusion of sedans in the line. From those days in 1968 when the first Saab sedan was launched until today when there are still sedans on the market, the Saab name is easily recognized as being one of style, luxury and unique appearances.