The 95 is almost two inches longer and a half-inch wider than the 9000, which enhances dynamic stability and provides over a half-inch more front legroom, as well as impressive trunk space. The all-new body slides through the air with a slippery 0.29 Cd, one of the most aerodynamic designs in the class.
The front suspension retains the MacPherson struts of the 9000, while the rear uses a new split-axle with multilink locating members to replace the 9000's dead-beam design. Both are supported by subframes to help isolate vibration. Also standard is Bosch's 5.3 four-channel anti-lock braking system and traction control.
From a ride and handling standpoint, Saab did everything right. The Euro-tuned suspension does an excellent job of soaking up bumps, large and small, and keeping the chassis under control in all driving situations. The rack-and-pinion steering is light and stable on-center, and firms up nicely off-center to provide razor-sharp response in corners. In addition, the car provides rock-solid transient stability with no sign of uneasiness in quick lane-change maneuvers.
Inside, the driver is greeted by a roomy cabin and pleasant matte-black control panel surrounded by real walnut trim. Another "world first" is Saab's new Active Head Restraint System (SAHR). This mechanical system automatically activates during a low-speed rear impact when the front seats are occupied, and moves the head restraints up and forward to meet the person's head, helping prevent backward whiplash motion and reduce the chance of injury. This is supported in terms of safety by dual front and seat-mounted side airbags, as well as three-point seatbelts for all passengers. An improved integrated rear child seat is optional.
Another first for passenger cars is a ventilated seating system, intended for use in hot, humid weather. It employs fans in the seat base and lower back, which can be set to three different speeds. Air is drawn from around the occupant's back and thighs, in through the perforations of the leather material, and expelled under the seat. When in use, the system emits a soft hum and provides a welcome cooling sensation.
Other highlights include firmly supportive front seats with reinforced seatbacks for protection during rear-end collisions, a dual-zone automatic climate control system that can provide one temperature for the driver and another for all other passengers, and an optional 200-watt, nine-speaker Harman-Kardon audio system with a smart automatic volume control system that raises or lowers volume in conjunction with vehicle speed.
The rear outboard seats are invitingly cushy and well contoured, with good leg- and headroom. A deep, cavernous trunk, supplemented by a split, folding rear seat, replaces the hatchback rear end of the 9000 while sacrificing only 5 cubic feet.
Speaking of cargo-carrying, about a year after the 95 sedan makes its debut, we expect a wagon version to follow, and perhaps eventually a "sport/utility-trimmed" version in the tradition of Subaru's Outback or Volvo's V70 XC wagon.
Our final impressions? The 95 is an excellent driver's car that envelops occupants in a feeling of control and safety. It offers strong power and an impressive array of luxury accoutrements. Released in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Saab's automotive division, it's easily the finest car the company has ever produced. Adding to its appeal is the fact that Saab says the 95 will be its best price-value package yet. Although firm figures weren't available at press time, its price is expected to be similar to that of the current 9000 line, which now ranges between $32,000 and $42,000.
Unfortunately, despite its considerable strengths, the car could easily get lost among the more prestigious marques in its intensely competitive class. So do yourself a favor and scribble the 95 onto your test-drive list because this high-tech sedan may well be the Saab for the rest of us.