The 9-5 is instantly recognizable as a Saab. It has that familiar Saab profile, embodied in the rake of the hood, the shape of the C-pillar and the short rear deck. Its body features smooth bumpers, an integrated grille, and clear-lens composite headlights, all of which help emphasize the car's performance-minded intention. Sedans get clear tail lamps, while the wagons have a rear panel that visually unites the tail lamps for a tighter, more solid appearance. Overall, the 9-5 has a sculpted, Scandinavian appearance. Its aerodynamic lines are tautly drawn.The 9-5 gets some minor exterior updates for 2004. The Arc models now feature some lower body cladding, while the Aero features a more aggressive lower body treatment. Most significant is the deletion altogether of the Linear sedan body style.
Exclusive wheels differentiate Linear, Arc, and Aero models. The Linear rides on 16-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, while the Arc runs on five-spoke 16-inch alloys. The Aero comes with sporty 10-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels and low-profile performance-tuned 225/45WR17 all-season radials. Next Page