Saab has launched its 9-5 SportWagon in the UK alongside a raft of updates for the 9-5 saloon that lower carbon dioxide emissions and improve fuel economy. Crucially, there are also revisions to the 9-5's suspension to give a plusher ride.

The SportWagon costs from £28,195 and comes with the same range of updated engines as the saloon. Cleanest is the 160bhp 2.0-litre TiD turbodiesel with manual gearbox, which now comes with stop-start as standard. It offers 125g/km emissions in the saloon (down from 139g/km) and 128g/km in the SportWagon.

Luggage space in the SportWagon ranges from 527 litres with the rear seats in place all the way to 1,600 litres with the 60/40 split and folding rear bench seat lowered. There are also compartments in the side walls of the boot for extra space for small items.

Saab supplies a cargo management system for the SportWagon using U-rails that slide fore and aft to help secure loads. There's also a cargo net, under-floor storage for security, a 12-volt power outlet and cargo cover. A powered tailgate that can be opened remotely is an option, while aluminium roof rails are standard on all 9-5 estate models.

Work has been carried out on the 9-5's suspension in the UK following criticism of early cars. Revised front spring rates, shock absorber settings and new bushes are now used across the entire 9-5 range, which Saab says greatly improves the ride and handling of the 9-5.

Aero models of the 9-5 now come with an upgraded adaptive DriveSense system as standard. The Aero model also benefits from a HiPer strut, independent steering axis, and multi-link H-arm rear suspension as standard. Four-wheel drive XWD models also gain an electronic limited slip differential.

The revised Saab 9-5 saloon and new SportWagon are available to order now.

Alisdair Suttie - 17 Jun 2011