Saab 9-5 SportCombi (Sweden, 2011)

In early 2011, Saab announced the debut of its 9-5 SportWagon at the Geneva Motor Show. The new version features the same dynamic AeroX-inspired looks of the 9-5 saloon and adds to it extended cargo capacities. With this version of the 9-5, Saab entered a new competitor in the premium large estate segment.

In terms of design, the SportWagon lends from the saloon but adds a new ‘wraparound’ rear window graphic. Its sweeping roof-line is extended by a deep rear spoiler integrated into the top of the tailgate. It also features a full-width rear light bar which wraps into light units at either side, a Saab styling theme first seen on the 9-5 saloon and 9-4X crossover.

The 9-5 SportWagon comes with the same all-turbo petrol and diesel powertrain line-up as the saloon. It also offers Saab’s XWD all-wheel-drive system and Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis control, adaptive cruise control (late 2012), Bi-Xenon SmartBeam adaptive lighting, keyless entry and starting, tri-zone air conditioning and a Head-up Display which projects information in the windshield.

The cargo compartment is almost two meters long (1,962 mm) and offers an adaptable load capacity of up to 1,600 liters (527 litres, rear seats up) with the seatbacks folded down. Compartments in the side walls offer stowage for small items. The tailgate is available with a remotely-controlled, electric power operation, so it can be fully opened and closed via a rotary knob in the driver’s door or a button on the car’s key fob. A touch pad on the outside of the tailgate, above the number plate, also triggers powered opening and closing.

The 9-5 SportWagon is available for orders by spring 2011 and first deliveries are scheduled to start by September of the same year.