Alternative fuels and green technology are big news these days – barely a week passes without the introduction of yet another new eco-friendly solution that’s promising to save the world, bioethanol is just one of the latest options.Saab’s 9-5 was among one of the first cars to use it. Reassuringly, the clever Bio-Power range allows the model’s 2.0-litre engine to also run on unleaded, which means if you can’t find a garage selling the alternative fuel, you can simply fill up with petrol and continue your journey. The nifty engine management will sort out the rest, optimising performance from the resulting mixture, sounds good so far, but there is a slight problem. Only a small number of outlets currently sell bioethanol in the UK – and the few that do are usually found in major cities or near by suburbs.
As its name suggests, the Saab 9-5 Bio-Power not only offers purer power, but more of it. Because Saab's turbocharging technology and engine management systems make it possible to take advantage of bioethanol's higher octane rating, an impressive 20 per cent gain in brake horse power (bhp) and 16 per cent growth in torque can be enjoyed when the car runs on E85 compared to when running on regular petrol. As a result, when running on E85, the Saab 9-5 2.0t Bio-Power engine delivers 180 bhp and 280 Nm of torque, compared to 150 bhp and 240 Nm when using regular petrol, which gives significant increase in power and performance.
The cabin of the Saab 9-5 is very driver-oriented. The centre console curves around the driver putting all the controls within easy reach, the layout is simple but logical. Seat comfort and support are excellent, with well shaped chairs that move to suit all shapes and sizes. There’s plenty of room in the back for three adults. Boot space is excellent and for carrying those longer loads back from the DIY store the rear seats also split and fold flat. Standard features for all variants include; dual-zone air conditioning, electrically-operated and heated door mirrors, the Saab information display in the instrument binnacle, heat absorbent glass and a rake- and reach-adjustable steering wheel. Standard safety systems are listed as ESP, ABS with EBD, TCS- traction control, four airbags for the front occupants who also benefit from Saab Active Head Restraints or SAHR and all the seats have an anti-submarining function. In buying the Saab 9-5 BioPower Estate, you get the flexibility of fuel choice and doing your bit for the environment.
