(continued from above)
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 all 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); adaptive cruise control; Saab DriveSense
adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; keyless entry and starting;
tri-zone air conditioning; dynamic parking assistance and Saab XWD with a rear
eLSD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system.
"This car is the start
of a new era for our brand," says Jan Ake 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 all 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 Aero
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 all new Saab 9-5 Aero 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 Aero 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 all new Saab 9-5 Aero's overall proportions
stretch the traditional three-box sedan silhouette, while avoiding the fastback
cliché of a four-door coupé look.
Saab 9-5 Aero: Review (2/2)