Saab 9-5: the only way is up

Saab's new 9-5 has been revealled in all its Swedish glory. But unlike our recent story on Saab's all-new premium sedan this time the images reveal the complete design, inside and out.

At the time of writing Saab was yet to release any sanctioned information about its new flagship model, which will be officially unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show in mid September.

Now that Saab's current owner GM has moved through its bankruptcy proceedings, the deal that would see the Swedish Koenigsegg Group take ownership can move forward, with some sources saying the deal could be sealed by August.

Replacing its 12-year-old predecessor, the new 9-5 boasts a fresh new look, and though the front end design has similarities to the previous 9-5, the biggest stylistic departure can be seen in the Swede's profile, particularly towards the tail end.

There's a distinct coupe influence in the way the rear windscreen tapers towards the boot, which moves the vehicle's look and feel away from a traditional sedan.

Furthermore, the smaller details give the Saab a more contemporary image, including the LED indicators at the rear, the reworked headlight cluster at the front and the silver accents that run the length of the side skirts. Overall, the car has a smoother, more rounded look than its precursor.

Saab's aviation theme has been expounded throughout the interior with an altimeter-inspired speedometer in the instrument display and even Boeing 747-inspired flip-out LCD screens for rear seat passengers.

The new Saab 9-5 will be marketed as a prestige vehicle and will be packaged with a range of upmarket features, including leather everything, an electronic park brake and a high tech centre console with large LCD touch screen display.

Power will be derived from a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, likely to be both four- and six-cylinder, and expect to see some biofuel-capable engines too.

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