ANCAP crash test results

SAAB 9-5 (LHD) | 1997

Important note: The left-hand-drive European model was tested by EuroNCAP. Australasian specifications may vary and therefore models sold in Australasia might provide different levels of protection to those described on this page.

Overall evaluation:

The Saab 9-5 performed reasonably well in the offset crash test (score 12.57 out of 16). The passenger compartment held its shape well.

The vehicle scored a full 16 points in the side impact crash and a full 2 points in the optional pole test.

Safety features

The driver and front passenger are protected by front airbags, side airbags and head-protecting upper side airbags.

The front seat belt buckles are mounted on the seats and the upper anchorages are height adjustable. These features improve the fit of the seat belt. Pretensioners are fitted to front seat belts to reduce slack in the event of a severe crash. The centre rear seat has a 3-point seat belt.

Structure: Good

Offset crash test

The passenger compartment held its shape well in the offset crash test. As intended, the brake pedal mounts released during the crash and this reduced the risk of leg injury. The roof was starting to buckle upwards above the driver. The width of the driver's doorway shortened by 6cm and the door panels were starting to separate. All doors remained closed during the crash. After the crash high manual effort was required to open the driver's door. The other doors opened normally.

Side impact crash test

The passenger compartment held its shape well in the side impact test.

Restraints: Good

Offset crash test

The airbags cushioned both the driver and passenger. Movement was well controlled. Stiff components under the steering column were considered hazardous to the knees and resulted in loss of points for the upper leg score.

Side impact crash test (no front passenger)

Dummy movement was well controlled. The upper side airbags protected the head of the driver. This gave the manufacturer the option of funding a separate pole impact crash test. This test earned the vehicle a further two points.

Head restraint position rating

Not assessed but fitted with a "whiplash mitigation system".

Pedestrian rating:

12.18 points out of 36 (33.8%).

Child head impacts 7.83 points; adult head impacts 4.30 points; upper leg impacts 0.05 points; lower leg impacts zero points.