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Fresh 9-5 gets X appeal

Sportier styling and more fun to drive - that's how Saab is billing its facelifted 9-5 range, which makes its public debut at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show.

By Sam Hardy

30th August 2005

Following the spy shots we printed in issue 851, these are the first official pictures of the saloon and estate. They reveal how the car has been inspired by the 9X concept, first unveiled at the same exhibition four years ago.

The 9-5 now gets a more aggressive front end, with bolder headlights, plus a bigger grille and more chrome detailing. At the rear, new tail-lamps and a restyled bumper complete the look.

Under the skin, engineers have tuned the steering and suspension to give a sharper, faster response to driver inputs - an area where BMW's 3-Series and the Audi A4 have had the Saab beaten. Yet while the firm has aimed for a more sporty drive, it says the 9-5's reputation for a comfortable and refined ride hasn't been sacrificed.

Changes have also been made to the engine line-up, with Saab ditching its 2.2-litre diesel in favour of the 150bhp 1.9-litre direct-injection unit seen in the Vauxhall Astra and Vectra. The existing turbocharged petrol family will be supplemented by a range-topping 260bhp 2.3-litre unit for the Aero model, which has 10bhp more than before.

A 2.0-litre BioPower turbo will appear after the launch. It's capable of running on a mixture of petrol and bioethanol - an organically produced fuel that costs drivers around 25 per cent less than unleaded. Its engine will be more powerful and economical than a standard unit.

While the 9-5 has been significantly refreshed, prices won't rise significantly. The saloon range is likely to start at about ΂£20,500, with estate versions around ΂£1,000 more. Both models go on sale in November.

For an alternative review of the latest Saab 9-5 visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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