Saab 9-5

It's official – Saab’s new 9-5is here! These pictures show the replacement for the Swedish firm’slong-standing executive saloon in all its glory – and it’s a lot morehandsome than the car it replaces. While it’s still clearly a 9-5,Saab’s designers have cleaned up the lines to give it a much tidierlook than the outgoing model.

Slimmer headlamps with jaggededges and a prominent, gaping grille feature at the front. But it’s therear that’s changed most, as the 9-5 has ditched its rectangular shapein favour of a curvy back end with sleek, triangular tail-lights whichcontinue as a slim, horizontal strip across the boot line.

Completingthe look on the outside are turbine-style alloys and glossy black doormirrors, while inside it’s business as usual, with a sweepingdriver-focused centre console, plush seats and top-quality materials.

But it’s not all show and no go, as Saab has tweaked the mechanicals, too. Auto Express has learned the new carwill have a much greater selection of engines, including a pair of2.0-litre turbodiesels, plus three petrol engines ranging from a 1.6turbo to a firebreathing 2.8 V6 with around 300bhp.

Thechassis and suspension will also be upgraded, so when the 9-5 arrivesearly next year, its ride and handling should be more polished thanever.