Originally starting as an aircraft manufacturer for the Swedish Air Force, the Svenska Aircraft Company began manufacturing cars in 1949 under the Saab nameplate.
The company’s early automotive designs placed an emphasis on aerodynamics that is reflective of its history as an aircraft manufacturer. The first production Saab, the 92, boasted a lower drag coefficient than many modern cars. The 1960’s and 70’s gave way to many long running successes for Saab such as the Saab96, which model run went on for 20 years. The 99 combi coupe introduced in 1973 became the definitive Saab we know today with its hatchback and folding rear seat, it was quite a versatile and roomy car for its size. The 99 also experimented with turbo charging and was the forerunner for the very successful 900 turbo models that followed in the 1980’s. In 1990, General Motors acquired a 50% interest in Saab’s automotive division. The decade saw a number of new initiatives and the revamping of many of Saab’s popular models. GM acquired the balance of Saab in late 2000 and through new and bold styling created the new 9-5 and 9-3 model lines. Saab enjoyed a resurgence of popularity however some have criticized the brand as a poor performer domestically mainly due to GM’s badge engineering of Saab cars. New models like the 9-2X and the 9-7X were based on platforms lifted from other GM brands — Subaru and Chevrolet, respectively. Still, many touches of individuality remain, and the brand has much to offer those who embrace its singular personality.
Saabusa.com
2011 Model Year Vehicles to Be Sold in Canada
Embargoed May 11, 2010
New Start for Saab in the Canadian Marketplace: 2011 Model Year Vehicles to Be Sold in Canada
- International Fleet Sales to provide distribution services
- Potential of 20 retail dealers to support network
- All-new 2011 model year vehicles to land in dealership showrooms in the fall of 2010
TORONTO – Saab Cars North America (SCNA) and International Fleet Sales (IFS) announced today the return of Saab to the Canadian marketplace. SCNA and IFS are developing the process necessary to import and distribute new Saab vehicles throughout Canada beginning with 2011 model year vehicles. Approximately 20 dealers have already expressed interest in the opportunity to sell the luxury brand.
“Saab Cars North America is proud to have successfully reached a memorandum of understanding with International Fleet Sales to begin providing high-quality, stylish and trendy Saab vehicles into the Canadian marketplace,” said Mike Colleran, President and COO, Saab Cars North America.
“International Fleet Sales has experience distributing Saabs since 2005 when we exported the Saab 9-7X to Europe and the Middle East and now we look forward to working with SCNA to provide Saab vehicles to the Canadian marketplace,” said Mike Libasci, President of IFS. “We also look forward to receiving new product from Sweden in the fall of this year.”
An exciting line-up of Saab vehicles will arrive later this fall in dealer showrooms throughout Canada. The vehicles will maintain their rich Swedish heritage and premium engineering, styling and performance capabilities. An all-new Saab 9-3X premium cross-over has been added to the Saab line-up – the 9-3 sport sedan, 9-3 sportCombi and the 9-3 convertible as well as the all-new 9-5 sedan. Vehicle pricing will be released in the coming months. Once the Saab dealer infrastructure is finalized, warranty work will be fulfilled through this network.
For further information on Saab in Canada, please refer to saab.ca or to locate a GM dealer authorized to service your current Saab vehicle, please visit www.owners.gm.ca until the Saab dealer network is finalized this fall.
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.
CONTACT:
Michele Tinson
Director Communications
Saab Cars North America
248-408-2231(cell)
michele.tinson@saab.com
James Steinhagen
Director – OEM Initiatives
International Fleet Sales
248 595 8141 (office)
510 333 5661 (cell)
james.steinhagen@internationalfleetsales.com
April 20, 2010: Saab Cars North America Announces Pricing on All-New Premium Flagship Vehicle
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 – Saab Cars North America today 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.
Contact:
Michele Tinson
Communications
Saab Cars North America
248-408-2231 (cell)
michele.tinson@saab.com
March 15, 2010: GMAC to provide financing for Saab dealers and customers
GMAC to provide financing for Saab dealers and customers
- GMAC chosen as financial services provider to Saab Automobile
- Preferred source of wholesale and retail financing for dealers and customers
DETROIT – Following its successful launch as an independent company, Saab Automobile announced today that it has selected GMAC Financial Services as the preferred provider of wholesale and retail financial services for qualified Saab dealers and customers in many different countries around the world.
Jan Åke Jonsson, CEO of Saab Automobile AB said: “Today’s announcement is excellent news for the Saab organization as a whole and also for Saab’s customers. It not only makes available competitive financing, but also provides valuable continuity for the dealer network which already uses GMAC services.”
Bill Muir, GMAC President said: “We are delighted to be able to build on our strong relationships with Saab dealers and customers, and we look forward to working with Saab as it begins a new chapter in its history.”
CONTACT:
Michele Tinson
Saab Cars North America Communications
Mobile: 248-705-0604
Saab Automobile Press Office
Tel: +46 (0)520 279797
Tony Sapienza
GMAC North American Automotive Finance Operations Communications
Tel: +1 313-656-5005
tony.sapienza@gmacfs.com
Susanne Gehrling
GMAC International Automotive Finance Operations Communications
Tel: +49 6142 604 566
susanne.gehrling@gmacfs.com
March 15, 2010: GMAC to provide financing for Saab dealers and customers
GMAC to provide financing for Saab dealers and customers
At Saab, we’ve always been proud of our ability to see challenge as opportunity. Our sense of independent, "anything is possible" thinking allows us to look at things from a different perspective and to bring unconventional ideas to everything we do. Certainly, the past few months have been as challenging as any in our 73-year history. But thanks to the optimism and dedication of our Swedish leadership and Saab loyalists like you, we are thrilled to announce that Saab is here to stay.
Without the support of our customers and fans, the recent purchase of Saab Automobile AB by Spyker N.V. would not have become a reality. We’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to you and to the thousands of fans who rallied, convoyed, blogged and otherwise helped carry the torch to save Saab. We are humbled and we are grateful, and we want you to know it.
Looking ahead, our vision remains clear: Saab is committed to creating inspiring cars for independent thinkers who are searching for something more than just another car. In a few months, we will bring a new, completely redesigned Saab 9-5 sedan to North America. Built with the latest technology and progressive Scandinavian design, we believe the 9-5 rivals the best of the premium imports.
In the near future, we’ll also introduce the 9-4X, a fun-to-drive luxury sport crossover that befits the Saab badge. These new vehicles will join our highly regarded 9-3 family of vehicles.
Again, many thanks for your continued support and inspiration. We look forward to writing the next chapter of our history and bringing you a different perspective on vehicles for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Mike Colleran
President and Chief Operating Officer
Saab Cars North America
February 24, 2010
saabusa.com
February 24, 2010: Spyker Cars finalizes the purchase of Saab
February 24, 2010
Spyker Cars finalizes the purchase of Saab
- Spyker Cars finalizes deal over the purchase of Saab Automobile
- Transfer of ownership has taken place
- Saab exits liquidation and the management are back in control
- Transaction signals the start of an exciting new era for Saab
- Saab and Spyker to operate under parent company Spyker Cars N.V.
Trollhättan. Spyker Cars N.V. today confirmed it has finalized the deal with General Motors Company to purchase Saab Automobile AB. The transfer of ownership took place at 16.30 CET on February 23. Prior to the close of the deal Saab exited liquidation and control was reinstated to Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile’s CEO, and his management team. Going forward Saab Automobile and Spyker Cars will operate as sister companies under the umbrella of the Amsterdam Euronext listed parent company Spyker Cars N.V. (Ticker symbol:SPYKR). This transaction secures the future of Saab Automobile and signals the start of an exciting new era for the iconic brand.
Victor Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars NV said: "We are delighted – Saab’s future is now secure." He continued: "From today we will be concentrating all of our efforts into reviving Saab and transforming it into a sustainable and profitable company with the confidence to be bold. We will reinforce the emotional experience between Saab drivers and their cars and we will focus on Saab’s historical strengths in the fields of independent thinking, aircraft heritage, ecological performance and motorsport.
"Through this acquisition we add approximately 15 euros per share in equity and 60 euros of assets. With a well funded business plan in place we are looking forward to working with Saab’s management on the realization of that plan and bringing exciting new products to our customers. Real Saabs, Saab Saabs."
Jan Åke Jonsson, CEO of Saab Automobile AB said: "Today’s announcement is great for Saab’s customers, dealers, suppliers and employees around the globe, the level of passion and support shown to Saab over recent months has been remarkable and this does bode well for the future. Now we aim to get back to the execution of our business plan, starting with the introduction of the new 9-5 later this year, and with the continued support of our employees and business partners I am confident we will succeed."
"This transaction represents the successful outcome of months of hard work and intense negotiations, all aimed at securing a sustainable future for this unique brand, and we are pleased with the positive outcome," said John Smith, GM vice president for corporate planning and alliances. "This is a great day for Saab employees, dealers and suppliers, and a great day for millions of Saab customers and fans worldwide."
October 23, 2009: All-New Saab 9-5 Sedan makes its U.S. premiere at the Miami Auto Show
The All-New Saab 9-5 Sedan, making its U.S. premiere at the South Florida International Auto Show in Miami, takes center stage on the Saab stand as the Swedish premium brand celebrates the start of new era.
- Progressive Scandinavian design inspired by Aero X and Saab heritage
- Engineered with the driver in focus for segment leading sporty driving experience
- Highest levels of responsible performance, both environmental and safety
- Most technically advanced Saab with an array of ‘high-tech’ features
Making its North American public debut at the South Florida International Auto Show in Miami, the all-new Saab 9-5 sedan signals the start of a new era for the Saab brand. Sleek, sophisticated and unmistakably Saab, it combines fashion-forward Svenska design with advanced technologies and will bring a fresh alternative choice to the premium sedan segment when sales start later in model year 2010.
The clean, sculpted shape embraces the purity of Scandinavian design and its dramatic wraparound window graphic echoes Saab’s aviation heritage. With frontal styling inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car and a muscular, low-slung stance, the new 9-5 heralds the introduction of a bolder, more expressive design direction for Saab.
The array of high-tech features on offer includes: an aircraft-like head-up information display (Pilot HUD); adaptive lighting (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time suspension damping control; passive keyless entry and push start button; tri-zone air conditioning; and Saab XWD with a rear eLSD (electronic limited-slip differential), which provides optimal traction on slippery surfaces, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system.
"This car is the start of a new era for our brand," says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile’s Managing Director."We have created an advanced and very distinctive product by leveraging the power of our roots in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design, sporty driving and responsible performance. The new 9-5 delivers in all these respects, as will every future product from Saab."
Scandinavian Design
Forward-looking design that doesn’t ignore where it’s coming from – that sums up the visual appeal of the all-new Saab 9-5 sedan."We are giving a fresh, very modern expression to some of our classic brand design cues," says Simon Padian, Saab Brand Design Chief."We have taken visual themes in our recent concept cars, such as the Aero X, which are inspired by Scandinavian design and our brand’s aircraft heritage."
The face of the new 9-5 is defined by a deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units. The entire glasshouse is presented as a ‘wraparound’ mono graphic, the disguised windshield and side pillars giving the cabin Saab’s signature cockpit look. Squint slightly, and the proportions of the windshield and roof become reminiscent of the classic 900 model.
Viewed from any angle, the all-new 9-5 cuts a strong and powerful stance. The ‘organic sculpture’ of the low-slung body blends clean, uncluttered lines with natural, curvaceous shapes. Brand design cues are evident in the ‘hockey stick’ belt-line, the strong rear C-pillars and the fuselage-smooth surfacing of the bodywork. The large Saab logo embossed in the center of the grille characterizes the more assertive, self-confident design language.
The car’s dynamic character is emphasized by a falling roof-line that culminates in sweeping rear pillars which buttress a slightly recessed rear screen. Latent energy is conveyed by fenders that are subtly pulled out to melt into the wheels. Below that smooth, flat rear deck, a full-width, ice-block rear light bar wraps into signature lighting.
The new 9-5’s overall proportions stretch the traditional three-box sedan silhouette, while avoiding the fastback cliché of a four-door coupé look.
Driver-focused cabin
Inside the spacious cabin, simple forms define its architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior. Compared to its predecessor, legroom and shoulder width are increased both front and rear. The choice of materials, the fit and finish and the tactile quality of the controls all reflect the new 9-5’s premium appeal.
The driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab, while its execution is all-new. The deep center console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by a neat ventilation zone. Deeply recessed main dials include a rolling ‘altimeter’ speed read-out, a reference to Saab’s aviation heritage from the Aero X concept. Driver displays, including the optional head-up display (Pilot HUD) in the windshield, are predominantly illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance. The car’s ignition, now a start/stop button, remains between the front seats, next to the gear shift.
Infotainment choices include a top-of-the-line harman/kardon surround sound audio system and an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system with hard disk storage for map data and 10 GB of jukebox-style music files. A large center console provides stowage and connections for several portable devices through USB and Aux ports alongside a 12V power outlet.
Rear passengers can access their own audio or watch a DVD. The rear seat entertainment unit in the back of the center console accommodates audio controls and fold-out viewing screens are installed in the front seat-backs. Wired and wireless headphones are provided for listening and viewing. The rear seat entertainment unit also includes twin air vents and an independent temperature control for the rear cabin, in addition to the dual zone air conditioning up front.
On the road
Saab has more than 30 years experience in turbocharging engines and the all-turbo powertrain line-up in the all-new 9-5 further develops its rightsizing engine strategy. At launch, a 2.8-liter turbocharged dual overhead cam (DOHC) V6 engine with 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque will be offered. Shortly after launch, a 2.0-liter turbocharged BioPower E85-capable four-cylinder engine with 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque will be introduced. All transmissions will be six-speed.
An array of chassis technologies is focused on delivering a sporty, rewarding driving experience that belies the 9-5’s size. Saab XWD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system already available on the Saab 9-3, will be available in the 9-5 as well. Also available is adaptive chassis control with driver settings selection through Saab DriveSense and Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive lighting.
New era
Defined and equipped by Saab as its top-of-the-line contender in the premium midsize sedan segment, the new 9-5 is the most technically advanced car ever produced by the company. It will be built at Saab’s home plant in Trollhättan, where it has been engineered and chiefly developed.
August 28, 2009: All New Saab 9-5 Sedan: Start of a New Era for Saab
- All new premium sedan to debut at Frankfurt IAA
- Progressive Scandinavian design inspired by Aero X and Saab heritage
- Engineered with driver in focus for segment leading sporty driving experience
- Excels in responsible performance for safety and environmental concern
- Most technically advanced Saab with an array of ‘high-tech’ features
Making its public debut at next month’s IAA in Frankfurt, the all new Saab 9-5 sedan announced today signals the start of a new era for the Saab brand. Sleek, sophisticated and unmistakably Saab, it combines stand-out looks with advanced technologies and will bring a fresh alternative choice to the premium sedan segment when sales start later in model year 2010.
The clean, sculpted shape embraces the purity of Scandinavian design and its dramatic wraparound window graphic echoes Saab’s aviation heritage. With frontal styling inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car and a muscular, low-slung stance, the new 9-5 heralds the introduction of a bold, more expressive design language.
The array of high-tech features on offer includes: an aircraft-like head-up information display (Pilot HUD); adaptive lighting (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; passive keyless entry and keyless starting; tri-zone air conditioning; dynamic parking assistance and Saab XWD with a rear eLSD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system.
The powertrain focuses on responsible performance through the development of a highly efficient turbo engine.
"This car is the start of a new era for our brand," says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile’s Managing Director. "We have created an advanced and very distinctive product by leveraging the power of our roots in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design, sporty driving and responsible performance. The new 9-5 delivers in all these respects, as will every future product from Saab."
Scandinavian Design
Forward-looking design that doesn’t ignore where it’s coming from – that sums up the visual appeal of the all-new Saab 9-5 sedan. "We are giving a fresh, very modern expression to some of our classic brand design cues," says Simon Padian, Saab Brand Design Chief. "We have taken visual themes in our recent concept cars, such as the Aero X, which are inspired by Scandinavian design and our brand’s aircraft heritage."
The face of the new 9-5 is defined by a deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units. The entire glasshouse is presented as a ‘wraparound’ mono graphic, the disguised windshield and side pillars giving the cabin Saab’s signature cockpit look. Squint slightly, and the proportions of the windshield and roof become reminiscent of the classic 900 model.
Viewed from any angle, the all new 9-5 cuts a strong and powerful stance. The ‘organic sculpture’ of the low-slung body blends clean, uncluttered lines with natural, curvaceous shapes. Brand design cues are evident in the ‘hockey stick’ belt-line, the strong rear C-pillars and the fuselage-smooth surfacing of the bodywork. The large Saab logo embossed in the center of the grille characterizes the more assertive, self-confident design language.
The car’s dynamic character is emphasized by a falling roof-line that culminates in sweeping rear pillars which buttress a slightly recessed rear screen. Latent energy is conveyed by fenders that are subtly pulled out to melt into the wheels. Below that smooth, flat rear deck, a full-width, ice-block rear light bar wraps into signature lighting.
The new 9-5’s overall proportions stretch the traditional three-box sedan silhouette, while avoiding the fastback cliché of a four-door coupé look.
Driver-focused cabin
Inside the spacious cabin, simple forms define its architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior. Compared to its predecessor, legroom and shoulder width are increased both front and rear. The choice of materials, the fit and finish and the tactile quality of the controls all reflect the new 9-5’s premium appeal.
The driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab, while its execution is all new. The deep center console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by a neat ventilation zone. Deeply recessed main dials include a rolling ‘altimeter’ speed read-out, a reference to Saab’s aviation heritage from the Aero X concept. Driver displays, including the optional head-up display (Pilot HUD) in the windshield, are predominantly illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance. The car’s ignition, now a start/stop button, remains between the front seats, next to the gear shift.
Infotainment choices include a top-of-the-line harman/kardon surround sound audio system and an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system with hard disk storage for map data and 10 GB of jukebox-style music files. A large center console provides stowage and connections for several portable devices through USB and Aux ports alongside a 12V power outlet.
Rear passengers can access their own audio or watch a DVD. The rear seat entertainment unit in the back of the center console accommodates audio controls and fold-out viewing screens are installed in the front seat-backs. Wired and wireless headphones are provided for listening and viewing. The rear seat entertainment unit also includes twin air vents and an independent temperature control for the rear cabin, in addition to the dual zone air conditioning up front.
On the road
An array of chassis technologies is focused on delivering a sporty, rewarding driving experience that belies the 9-5’s size. Saab XWD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system already available on the Saab 9-3, is offered with the 2.8 V6 turbo engines. Available throughout the range is adaptive chassis control with driver settings selection through Saab DriveSense, Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive lighting and intelligent cruise control.
Saab has some 30 years experience in turbocharging engines and the all-turbo powertrain in the new 9-5 further develops its rightsizing engine strategy. A top-of-the-line 2.8 V6 turbo, generating 300 hp and 400 Nm of torque, is offered exclusively with Saab XWD.
A few months later, a small, 2.0-liter gasoline turbo with 220 hp will be introduced. The transmission will be six-speed.
New era
Defined and equipped by Saab as its top-of-the-line contender in the premium sedan segment, the new 9-5 is the most technically advanced car ever produced by the company. It will be built at Saab’s home plant in Trollhättan, where it has been engineered and chiefly developed.
The all new 9-5 heralds the start of a new era for Saab. Scandinavian simplicity was never this advanced!
Click here to open a new window to go to the Saab Global site to get more info and pictures. Vehicles shown on the global site are European and not available in the US.
2009 Saab Model Lineup
- 2009 Saab 9-7X
- 2009 Saab Turbo X
- 2009 Saab 9-5 Sport Combi
- 2009 Saab 9-5
- 2009 Saab 9-3 Convertible
- 2009 Saab 9-3 Sport Combi
- 2009 Saab 9-3 Sports Sedan
