It’s been almost six months since the Saab 9-5 began production under its new owners Spyker. The car is now on sale and reviewers are stating to file their reports. Can the new 9-5 usher in a new era of stability for Saab? Can the 9-5 shed its humble GM origins? More importantly, and more simply, is the new 9-5 any good?
Take the jump and see what VBH from Fifth Gear has to say.
Architects across the world can rejoice, and sales of black skivvies are also assured as Saab’s new era has begun. A a new 9-5 model was the first to roll off the Trollhättan production facility after the company’s future was secured.
CEO of Spyker Cars, Victor Muller, said, “Everyone at Saab has worked extremely hard to reach this important point. Today production restarted with a new 9-5 first down the line – a fitting symbol that a new era has begun.”
Saab Automobile CEO, Jan Ã…ke Jonsson paid tribute to his workers, “We are up and running as an independent manufacturer and I am delighted to share the experience on the line alongside our workforce. They have shown tremendous commitment to the company and we are all now focused on ramping up production to meet customer demand.”
The new Saab 9-5 model is due for release later this year and the units rolling of the line now will be used as test vehicles.
Last night Spyker Cars completed its purchase of Saab. Spyker intends to allows Saab Automobiles to operate as a stand-alone sister company alongside the Dutch brand under the parent company of Amsterdam Euronext.
Victor Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars NV is excited about what lies ahead for the Swedish brand, “We are delighted—Saab’s future is now secure.
“With a well funded business plan in place we are looking forward to working with Saab’s management on the realisation of that plan and bringing exciting new products to our customers. Real Saabs, Saab Saabs.”
Understandably Saab’s CEOis breathing a sigh of relief, “Today’s announcement is great for Saab’s customers, dealers, suppliers and employees around the globe, the level of passion and support shown to Saab over recent months has been remarkable and this does bode well for the future. Now we aim to get back to the execution of our business plan, starting with the introduction of the new 9-5 later this year, and with the continued support of our employees and business partners I am confident we will succeed.”
A full statement can be read below.