Great car but expensive to run (Saab 9-5 2.3t 185 bhp)

Member Name: poco

Product:	Saab 9-5 2.3t 185 bhp
Date:	25/05/09 (11 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: great engine, spacious, fast and comfortable to drive

Disadvantages: expensive to run, not totally reliable, high car tax

A great car to drive - accelerates beautifully and can knock spots off most other cars on the road. I needed to buy an estate car to cope with family needs and was used to sporty convertibles previously. Everything I test drove seemed really sluggish in comparison. It is really capacious and has one of he biggest boots out there. You either love or hate the exterior styling. It is certainly very distinctive. The interior all works well and its very comfortable to drive over long distances. However, the petrol consumption is appalling. I get about 17 miles to the gallon in urban conditions - about 25 with motorway driving. It is also in the highest car tax bracket. It is still in warranty but I have already had several problems with the electrics which I understand is a common problem. The depreciation is also very bad although that means that newish second hand models can be bought quite cheaply too.

Summary: check you can afford the running costs before you buy

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