We say Decent alternative to the German powerhouses but can't match its rivals in terms of drive and interior quality, even though it’s so much cheaper.Performance 2.3-litre V8 Aero has the power and grunt to excite most people but with astronomical running costs it’s not a realistic choice for most people, particularly when it’s let down by a dull drive. The 1.9 diesel is a much better option for its mix of performance and economy.Emissions The flagship ‘green’ engine in the 9-5 Estate’s line-up is the 1.9-litre diesel but it only manages to return a measly 41mpg and emits 184g/km in CO2 in the process. That’s very poor in a segment which is becoming increasingly conscious of its carbon footprint.Driving Decent ride and drive means the 9-5 is a good cruiser and takes corners well. Steering is light on feel though which means you’re never going to enjoy driving it; you may not mind it but it won’t excite.Feel The diesel doesn't like to be stretched but the cabin is generally hushed and refined. That’s aided by a soft suspension set-up that cruises over bumps and uneven road surfaces without relaying that to the cabin.Space There’s lots of room in the 9-5 Estate’s cabin and it’s very comfortable for those in the front and back, but you’d rather sit in the front where there’s more room to stretch out. At the rear there’s a practical 416-litre boot but when the split folding rear seats are called into action, that load capacity leaps to a massive 1,500-litres.Equipment The 9-5 Estate is well kitted out and alloys, climate control, electric windows, Cd player as standard.Price Running costs are poor on the 9-5 estate and even the diesel will have people wincing. List prices are generally nice and competitive but they have to be. Entry-level models start from a little over £21,000.Quality All Saabs are solid, robust and extremely reliable but as a premium manufacturer you might expect more when it comes to the interior. There’s nothing wrong with the cabin, and at the top of the range the equipment becomes quite sophisticated, it’s just not as upmarket as some of its rivals.Safety Maximum of five NCAP stars. Plenty of safety kit but the airbag provision is mean at just four.Pros The 9-5 Estate is an excellent motorway cruiser and load-lugger. It’s also sleek, stylish and distinctive in the segment.Cons The 9-5 Estate is let down by its sedate and boring drive. The steering is too light and the suspension is too soft to feel anything other than comfort when you’re behind the wheel. Running costs are terrible.Alternatives Volvo V70
