2009 Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition Headed for Detroit

Saab's "Born from Jets" tagline is, of course, true. The Swedish manufacturer is highlighting this fact with a new special edition that commemorates the introduction of the new Gripen multi-role combat aircraft which is now entering active duty in Sweden after being developed by Saab Aircraft AB. The 9-5 Griffin edition debuts at the North American International Auto Show, and ascends to the top of the 9-5 range with a long list of standard equipment and handsome styling tweaks.

The 9-5 Griffin takes influence from the 9-3's styling updates, with matte chrome on the front grille and Xenon headlights. It's available as a sedan or "SportCombi" wagon, with unique 17-inch wheels and Griffin badging. Inside, high-gloss trim and accent color stitching set things apart. Two-tone leather sport seats are also available. Standard equipment for the 9-5 Griffin includes a rear parking assist, heated, power-folding outside mirrors and Saab's 260-horsepower 2.3 liter four-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. In fact, the only options are ventilated seats, a navigation system and
the 9-5 Griffin will be available shortly after its January debut in Detroit, with sticker prices starting at $42,775 for the sedan and $44,045 for the SportCombi.

Press Release

In the luxurious 9-5 Griffin Edition, making its premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this January, Saab offers levels of premium standard equipment that are unprecedented in the 62-year history of the Swedish car brand.

As underlined by its U.S. advertising tagline, "Born From Jets," Saab's illustrious aircraft heritage is part of its design philosophy that runs throughout its range of automobiles. With the vigor of its turbocharged engine and agile road manners, the Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition resonates with its aircraft namesake, the Gripen (Swedish for Griffin) - the first of the new generation of multi-role combat aircraft to enter into active service, developed by Saab Aircraft AB in Sweden. Saab

"With the 9-5 Griffin Edition, Saab reaches a new altitude in terms of premium standard equipment and value," said Steve Shannon, executive director, marketing and product, Saab Automobile USA.

Available in four-door Sedan as well as five-door SportCombi models, all versions feature Saab's signature 2.3L, 260-horsepower (194 kW) four-cylinder engine and can be matched to five-speed manual or automatic transmissions without extra charge.

The exterior of the 9-5 Griffin shows influences from the recently updated Saab 9-3 family, such as the use of matte chrome for the front grill, as well as the frames around the Xenon headlamps. The Sedan has a rear spoiler on the trunk lid, while the SportCombi can be recognized by its roof spoiler and roof rails in matte chrome finish.

Unique five-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels, plus Griffin badges on the front fenders adorn both body styles. In addition to Polar White, this special edition Saab 9-5 is available in six metallic colors, including Jet Black, Snow Silver, Nocturne Blue, Pepper Green, plus the new Carbon Grey and Glass Grey.

On the inside, every 9-5 Griffin shines with high-gloss interior trim, floor mats with grey piping, as well as the use of accent color stitching on the steering wheel, shift lever and handbrake. This premium stitching also applies to the Aero-inspired leather-appointed sport seats. They are available in two two-tone variations: black with parchment inserts and parchment with black inserts. Additional standard equipment includes a rear parking assist system, plus heated outside mirrors that are not only power-adjustable and foldable, but also auto-dimming.

Expected to start arriving in Saab dealer showrooms in January 2009, the 9-5 Griffin will be priced starting at U.S. $42,775 for the Sedan and $ 44,045 for the versatile and stylish SportCombi (prices include destination charges). In addition to the rich standard equipment, including an automatic transmission, the only options for the 9-5 Griffin are metallic paint, ventilated seats and a navigation system.