Saab 9-5 facelift 2001 2.2 TDi (120 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

7.6 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 3.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Saab 9-5:

The Saab 9-5 is an executive car, manufactured and marketed by Saab from 1997 to 2012, across two generations.
The first generation 9-5 was introduced in 1997 for the 1998 model year, as the replacement of the Saab 9000. At the time, the car represented a significant development for the manufacturer. In the United States, the 9-5 was introduced in the spring of 1998, for the 1999 model year.
The second generation was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 15, 2009 and production began in March 2010. It was the first Saab automobile launched under Spyker Cars' ownership, though developed almost entirely under GM's ownership. Production ceased in 2012 amid Saab's liquidation....(Read more on Wikipedia)

facelift 2001 Overview:

Saab 9-5 (facelift 2001). With 280 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.9 l/100km). With a weight of 1600 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 13 s). The top speed reaches 195 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.2 TDi (120 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

The automatic gearbox noticeably dulls performance, making acceleration slower than the manual. Best suited for relaxed, unhurried driving.

Fuel Economy

Maintains good fuel economy despite the automatic transmission, suitable for those prioritizing convenience over outright speed.

Best Use Case: City / Relaxed Commuting

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Distinctive styling and unique interior design
  • • Comfortable and supportive seats, ideal for long journeys
  • • Strong safety record for its era
  • • Engaging turbocharged petrol engines
  • • Good value on the used market

Cons:

  • • Aging infotainment and interior tech
  • • Some engine-specific reliability concerns (e.g., 3.0 TiD sludge, 2.3t PCV issues)
  • • Fuel economy for petrol models not class-leading
  • • Automatic transmission can be sluggish compared to rivals

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sport Combi (facelift 2001): 2001 - 2005).

General:
Brand:Saab
Model:9-5
Generation:facelift 2001
Modification (Engine):2.2 TDi (120 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:2002
End of production:2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:120 Hp @ 4300 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:55.2 Hp/l [18mm less]
Torque:280 Nm @ 1500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:D223L More details about the engine D223L
Engine displacement:2172
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:OHC
Engine oil capacity:5.5 l
Coolant:7.2 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:84 mm mm
Piston Stroke:98 mm mm
Compression ratio:19.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6.7 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:13 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:13 sec
Maximum speed:195 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:13.3 kg/Hp, 75 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.7 kg/Nm, 175 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:12.4 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1600
Max. weight:2090
Max load:490
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:500 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4810 mm mm [18mm less]
Width:1790 mm mm [2mm less]
Height:1450 mm mm [51mm less]
Wheelbase:2705 mm mm [2mm more]
Front track:1520 mm
Rear (Back) track:1520 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears4
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/65 R15
Wheel rims size15
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionSpring Strut

Behind the wheel of the Saab 9-5. How does it handle on the road?