We've just returned from the grand opening of Saab's new North American headquarters in Royal Oak, Michigan, where the newly emancipated automaker has just priced its pivotal new 9-5 for the U.S. market.
Saab will launch its new 9-5 lineup with the 2010 model year Aero sedan carrying a price of $49,990. The all-wheel drive 300-horsepower, 2.8-liter V6 turbo four-door will actually sit atop the range, with an entry-level 2011 model with Saab's 2.0-liter turbo powerplant coming on stream shortly thereafter with a promised MSRP of "under $40,000."
That's ambitious pricing in what already amounts to a very crowded and competent sandbox. For reference's sake, the 2010 Infiniti M37x starts at $48,400 and brings 330 horses to the table, while Cadillac's CTS rings up at $43,465 in comparable all-wheel drive trim with a 304-hp 3.6-liter. The European establishment rings up at $48,925 for Mercedes-Benz's 268-hp E350, and BMW's new 2011 528i will start at $44,500, though both of those segment stalwarts are rear-drive and tend to run comparatively thin on standard equipment. A better comparison is Germany's Audi A6 3.0T model, which packs 300 horses and Quattro all-wheel drive for $50,200.
According to Saab's hand-out press release (
The first 9-5 models are slated to go on sale in July, with the 2.0T models arriving hard on its heels. No word yet on 9-5 SportCombi pricing or availability, but we expect the two-box model to go on sale in about a year.
[Source: Saab]
Saab Cars North America Announces Pricing on All-New Premium Flagship Vehicle: The 9-5 Aero Sedan Launch Package
-- All-new 9-5 vehicle pricing on model year 2010 and 2011 variants -- Premium 9-5 Sedan available in July
DETROIT, April 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Saab Cars North America announced pricing for its all-new 2010 model year 9-5 Aero Sedan launch package. The flagship vehicle will arrive in U.S. dealer showrooms in July.
Saab will lead the new 9-5 launch with its top-of-the line Aero Sedan model, priced at $49,990 MSRP. The Aero, featuring a 300 hp 2.8-litre V6 turbo engine, delivers uncompromised driving performance and is packed with advanced chassis, comfort and safety technologies.
Shortly following the 9-5 Aero introduction, a 2.0-litre turbo variant will be added to the 9-5 line-up. Pricing for these 2011 model year vehicles will start at under $40,000 MSRP.
"The new 9-5 Sedan stays true to its unique Swedish heritage and Saab DNA. The 9-5 showcases progressive Scandinavian design, an exhilarating driving experience and responsible performance with its all-turbo powertrain line-up," said Mike Colleran, Saab Cars North America President and COO. "Saab's distinctive new flagship brings a fresh, alternative choice to the premium sedan segment."
The clean, 'organic sculpture' of the 9-5 bodywork, with elements inspired by Saab's award-winning Aero X concept, heralds the introduction of a bold, more expressive design language for the brand. The spacious, driver-focused cabin features a new iteration of Saab's signature cockpit layout.
Staying true to its roots, the 9-5 family features an all-turbo powertain line-up. The Aero model, features a 2.8-litre V6 Turbo Engine with 300 horsepower @ 5,300 rpm; a 24-valve, dual overhead camshaft valvetrain and a twin-scroll intercooled turbocharger and the Sentronic six-speed automatic with transmission with paddle shifting.
Performance is second to none with sophisticated electronic chassis systems such as electronic stability program, DriveSense adaptive chassis and Saab's advanced all-wheel-drive system, XWD. Additionally, the Aero features a new front and rear suspension design that provides a sporty driving experience without sacrificing on comfort.
Saab continues its commitment to safety with eight standard airbags in the new 9-5, including rear seat thorax protection side airbags. A lane departure warning system and head-up display are also available.
The refined interior of the 9-5 features leather-appointed seats and steering wheel, power front seats with memory settings for the driver's seat and mirrors, automatic dual-zone air conditioning, a cooled glove box, front and rear interior reading lamps, and 12V outlets in the front console and trunk.
The standard audio system includes an AM/FM radio with CD player, XM® Satellite radio, USB and auxiliary connections for portable devices and steering wheel mounted controls. A Harman-Kardon surround sound system is also available.
Saab's unique Night Panel feature continues in this new 9-5 and is enhanced by a new instrument cluster with a supplemental rolling speedometer display that hints at its aircraft heritage.
About Saab
Saab entered the auto business in 1949 with the first model 92. Its aerodynamic shape and advanced technology drew from the company's roots as an aircraft maker, and helped create what was to become a loyal and passionate customer base. Spyker Cars NV purchased Saab Automobile AB from General Motors on February 23, 2010.
All MSRP pricing includes destination and freight charges.
Source: Saab Cars North America
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