Saab 9-5 Estate (2005 - 2010) 1.9TiD Vector Sport 5d Auto Owner Review

At 238,000 miles, barring the odd rattle it drives much the same as when I bought it over 13 years ago and passes MOT emissions tests without issue. Hirsch-remapped from new diesel (automatic) returns 45mpg at motorway speeds, trundles locally at 37mpg, has dragged hounds to huge loads around the country, and still accelerates quickly. Everything still works from electric / heated seats to sunroof / air conditioning, has original turbo and amazingly original rear exhaust. Engine mounts, however, have finally worn out, satnav has decided to base itself in Belgium and some erroneous dash warning lights come and go as they please (noticeably in wet weather) but that's about it.

All in all, it's been ultra-reliable and therefore cheap to run for a heavy estate car. In fact, it's been such a practical and dependable car with comfortable seats that I'm tempted to just hang on to it - it's worth buttons - and see if we make the 500,000 mile mark. Not sure what I'll do when it finally wears out; new Mercedes estates don't appeal nor the ubiquitous Audis so perhaps a large Jeep next with air suspension to deal with the potholes.

This one's only downside is its modern yet rattly (Fiat) diesel engine; on the plus side it's great for fuel economy, goes all day every day without fuss and you don't hear anything inside the car, but outside it puts tractors to shame - don't choose this engine in the 9-3 convertible! With hindsight I'd have now gone for the petrol Hot Aero... no irritating sensors kicking off without reason, and no need to clean all the EGF-related stuff regularly either.