How cheap is car insurance for a Saab 9-5?

The Saab 9-5 is an entry-level luxury sedan from the iconic carmaker long known for its quirky Swedish aesthetic. If you would like to discover what it costs to insure a Saab 9-5, simply enter your zip code in the box indicated to get a free comparison of insurance quotes from leading insurance companies. Before you do, take a few moments to read on and learn more about the Saab 9-5. We’ll look at its features and safety equipment, history, what reviewers are saying, and a few considerations that affect the cost of insuring this popular sedan.

About the Saab Brand

For generations, Saab has been known as the innovative and offbeat Swedish alternative to conventional German, Asian and American car choices. Even after General Motors acquired Saab in 1989, the Saab brand continued to inspire a loyal clientele based on its unique attributes and image. When the Saab 9-5 was introduced under GM’s watch in 1999, it injected new life into the Saab legacy despite a crowded field of high-quality competition. However, because this competition reads like a who’s who of popular carmakers, and straddles the large luxury and upscale midsize sedan classes, for most reviewers over the years the Saab 9-5 has not been a top pick.

The new 2011 Saab 9-5 is turning heads, however. Saab went through several years of uncertainty from 2008 through 2010 until it changed hands and was acquired by the Dutch supercar maker Spyker. Fears of complete liquidation and an end to the Saab brand passed, and the stylish new 9-5 is now receiving some good press. Car and Driver calls it “the best Saab for some time and, ironically, the best one developed under GM’s 20-year ownership.” US News says the 9-5 “offers an inviting cabin with plenty of room and a comfortable driving experience.” Many reviewers praise its attractive exterior appearance in contrast to some less-preferred models such as the new Acura TL.

2011 Saab 9-5 Engine Choices

The 2011 base model Saab 9-5 comes with a 2-0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with 220 horsepower and standard manual transmission starting at $38,525, or automatic starting at $39,875. The upscale 9-5 is fitted with the same engine found in the Cadillac SRX, an automatic all-wheel drive V-6 2.8-liter that produces 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine is offered starting at $48,030, or $49,965 for the top-of-the-line Aero package.

Some reviewers praise the V-6 engine while others like Car and Driver note that it “lags behind class champs” from Infiniti, BMW and Audi. Autoweek says it is “smoother than any Saab engine in memory” and Popular Mechanics notes its “strong midrange torque and quick gearbox response.” Some reviewers also make a point of praising the four-cylinder base model for its light, agile feel when equipped with manual transmission.

A Bigger, Better Saab 9-5

The 2011 Saab 9-5 is based on GM’s Epsilon platform used in the Buick LaCrosse, so it has a longer wheelbase and larger dimensions than even the BMW 5-series or the Volvo S80. Its appearance combines elegance and sophistication with design elements that single it out as a Saab. The interior takes advantage of the extra size, and most reviewers like its comfortable roomy front and back seats and its upscale fittings, despite a few concerns about cheaper plastic trim. US News points out its huge 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space, a standout in this class.

The features you would hope to see in a new flagship Saab are all there as standard items: iPod integration, satellite navigation, heated and cooled leather seats, Bluetooth, audio steering wheel controls, a premium sound system, XM Satellite radio, USB, keyless start, auto-adjustable driver and passenger seats, and a fair number of other standard items.

SAAB Safety Features and Crash Ratings

Saab’s reputation for safety is well-served by the list of standard features available on both four- and six-cylinder models, including a full complement of front and rear air bags, roll-over sensor system, active head restraints, seat belt pretensioners and tire pressure monitoring. US News test drivers found its Electronic Stability Program and Traction Control System to be impeccable.

Although neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute of America (IIH) have crash tested the newest Saab 9-5, consumers can check their websites throughout the year for updates and new test results that may become available.

How much is car insurance for the Saab 9-5?

The new Saab 9-5 is expected to have a national average insurance cost of $1500 to $1600 to insure a typical driver with mid-range deductibles. However, this average is only a starting point in your investigation of insurance cost, because many factors can significantly affect the rates you personally will be quoted. Some of these include the state and town in which you live, annual mileage, credit history, driver age and driving history, multi-policy discounts and the vehicle’s intended use, whether commuting or pleasure. As an example, the Saab 9-5 costs on average less than $1000 to insure in Vermont, but jumps to $2300 if you live in Louisiana. A young driver, even with a clean driving record, can cost thousands of dollars more to insure than a middle-aged low-risk driver with an accident-free driving history.

Because so many variables affect the cost of car insurance, it’s more important than ever to compare quotes from leading insurers in order to get the best rate possible. Simply enter your zip code in the box and begin shopping for insurance for a Saab 9-5.

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