Saab 9-5 SportCombi

  • Another step in the largest ever Saab new product offensive
  • Clearly defined alternative in the premium station wagon segment
  • Continuation of the expressive design language of the Saab 9-5 saloon
  • Available from April, first deliveries scheduled for September

Sporty elegance paired with driving pleasure: The SportCombi adds another to the numerous, positively rated attributes of the Saab 9-5 sedan - versatility. It expands the segment of large premium station wagons with a striking alternative.

Saab 9-5 SportCombi, delivery from September
Saab 9-5 SportCombi, delivery from September

The SportCombi has the same expressive look inspired by the Saab Aero X as the sedan. The extended, sloping roofline flows into a steeply sloping rear with Saab's signature wrap-around window glazing. The result is an impressively sporty station wagon with a crouched stance, whose dynamic appearance in no way stands in the way of the requirements for generous transport space.

The intelligent payload solutions include a versatile, multi-folding luggage compartment floor, a U-shaped rail for flexible space division (U-Rail) and a storage compartment under the floor that can also be used as a waterproof transport space. The 9-5 SportCombi is also available with an electric tailgate with programmable opening angle.

As a complement to the sedan's fully turbocharged engine range, which offers petrol as well as bioethanol and diesel variants, the SportCombi is optionally equipped with the groundbreaking XWD all-wheel drive system, which has a number of advanced performance features. There is also the Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis system, adaptive cruise control, adaptive bi-xenon SmartBeam headlights, keyless entry (opening and starting without a key), a three-zone climate system and the head-up display, which provides information in the style of a fighter jet projected onto the windshield.

Orders for the SportCombi will be accepted from April; The first deliveries to customers are planned for September. With the SportCombi body version, Saab is significantly increasing the attractiveness of the model range of the new Saab 9-5, which competes in a segment in which Saab can sell its station wagons at a similarly high level as its sedans due to its long-standing tradition in the design of versatile automobiles.

Elegant: The new Saab 9-5 SportCombi
Elegant: The new Saab 9-5 SportCombi

“The introduction of the Saab 9-5 SportCombi is a long-awaited step in our new product offensive,” explained Jan Åke Jonsson, CEO of Saab Automobile. “It takes Saab back into the large station wagon segment, where we were already able to achieve a strong presence in numerous key markets with our previous offerings.”

Sporty character

The 9-5 SportCombi was developed in parallel to the sedan and therefore shows the same expressive front styling, which is further emphasized by the curved wrap-around look of the rear window. Together with the brand's typical design of the front section, this gives the SportCombi its very own identity. The dynamic, elongated roofline continues in the low rear spoiler, which is integrated into the upper edge of the tailgate. The standard, extremely narrow roof rails have no negative impact on the graceful design.

Saab 9-5 Aero SportCombi
Saab 9-5 Aero SportCombi

Constructive Saab signatures such as the massive C-pillar, which ends like a hockey stick along the belt line, combine with the striking rear contour of the SportCombi to create a powerful, dynamic appearance.

To underline the sporty character, the tailgate is tilted slightly forward. Its entire width is dominated by a light strip in an ice block design, which flows into the rear light cluster on the sides. This relatively new Saab design theme was first seen on the Saab 9-5 sedan and the Saab 9-4X crossover.

Dynamic and functional

The low-set loading area, which is completely lined with carpet, is designed for optimal use of space and easy loading. The rear seat backrest can be folded almost completely flat in a 60/40 ratio without having to move the seat cushions or remove the headrests. Much attention has also been paid to isolating the rear area of ​​the vehicle against noise, vibrations and resonances, so that the occupants can enjoy comfort similar to that in a limousine.

With the backrest folded down, the loading space extends to almost two meters (1962 mm) and offers an adjustable load capacity of up to 1.600 liters (527 liters with the rear seat back upright). The side walls are also completely flat and vertical. This creates a smooth-walled, open space without obstructive corners or wheel arches. Compartments in the side walls offer space for comfortable

Storing small items. Four mounting eyes and a 12 V socket are also standard. A U-shaped rail in the floor running along the outer walls allows flexible, needs-based division of the luggage compartment. As with the 9-5 sedan, this is done with the help of a telescopic divider so that objects of different sizes can be separated from each other and transported securely against slipping.

On the floor, you'll notice the typical Saab handle in the shape of an airplane, with which the floor can be opened up in sections. Folding it over twice reveals an additional storage compartment on vehicles equipped with a tire repair kit instead of a mini spare wheel. An extendable support arm snaps into the unfolded base and holds it securely in position. This creates a flexible alternative if you don't want to use the entire luggage space.

The underside of the base has two holders for space-saving storage of the U-Rail divider. There are also hooks attached here to which shopping bags can be securely attached. A suitable cover is optionally available, with which the recess in the floor becomes a waterproof storage compartment for sports equipment, outdoor clothing or dirty shoes.

In the version with mini spare wheel, the associated cover plate creates a 65 mm high space under the actual luggage compartment floor, which is suitable for storing flat or smaller items.

Thoughtful tailgate

If desired, the tailgate can be opened and closed electrically - also using comfort controls. This is done either using a rotary knob on the driver's door or using a button on the key fob. A touchpad on the outside of the flap above the license plate and a button on the inside also trigger the servo mechanism.

The tailgate can also be programmed so that it does not open to the full opening angle, but only partially, for example when the ceiling height in a garage is limited. How far the flap opens is adjusted using the rotary knob, which can also switch off the servo function.

The low loading sill of just 648 mm also makes loading and unloading easier. The bottom edge and luggage compartment floor are at the same height, which makes it easier to push in heavy objects. A light on the inside of the tailgate and smaller lamps on the side walls ensure excellent lighting conditions in the luggage compartment even in the dark.

The luggage compartment cover can be pulled out with just one hand and protects you from prying eyes. It is installed in eyelets in the side walls immediately behind the rear seat
inserted. The locking bar slides up rails on the inside of the D-pillars, making access to the luggage compartment easier.

Source / Pictures: Saab Automobile AB

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