Just two months after its launch, the appeal of the new Saab 9-5 saloon is further broadened by the introduction of two new engines.

For Model Year 2011, a 187bhp, 2.0-litre twin turbo diesel makes Saab cross XWD, the widely-acclaimed all-wheel-drive system, available for the first time with a Saab diesel engine. Using twin turbochargers, this new engine combines strong performance with impressive fuel efficiency and joins the current 158bhp, 2.0-litre single turbo diesel engine.

The Saab 9-5’s high-tech options list is expanded by the addition of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and an exterior paint colour palette that is increased from seven to eleven colours.

The new, more powerful, twin turbo diesel engine generates substantial torque of 295lb ft from just 1,750rpm, in addition to maximum power of 187bhp. The result is 0-62mph in under nine seconds. Projected combined cycle fuel consumption of 47.1mpg and CO₂ emissions of 159g/km are equally impressive, keeping the 2.0TTiD below the 160g/km write down threshold for company car buyers.

The sequential, twin turbocharging system uses two turbochargers of different sizes with by-pass valves that direct the exhaust gas stream between the two turbines. At low engine speeds, the small turbocharger supplies boost pressure independent of engine load. At intermediate engine speeds under higher loads, both the small and large turbochargers provide boost pressure; while at high engine speeds and load, only the large turbocharger is engaged. This arrangement provides the driver with the ‘best of both worlds’: good, instant torque at low engine speeds – via the low-inertia small turbo – and strong, top-end power at higher engine speeds when the large turbo is engaged.

The 2.0TTiD engine is available in Vector SE and Aero specification and can be specified with cross wheel drive (XWD), combining diesel power for the first time with Saab’s advanced all-wheel-drive system. All variants are equipped as standard with Saab’s sophisticated linked H-arm rear suspension system. This system uses double isolated sub-frame mountings for greater ride comfort, and also reduces vibration entering the cabin and further improves roadholding.

This optional feature for models with automatic transmission enables the driver to select a constant cruising speed and automatically alters the chosen speed to maintain a safe gap to the vehicle on the road ahead.  Full distance control is provided from 112mph down to a complete standstill. ACC offers more relaxing and less stressful driving, particularly in slow-moving, congested traffic conditions. The driver can select one of three distance options.

A radar sensor in the front grille emits a beam to measure the distance to the vehicle in front.  If this gap reduces below the required setting, the throttle opening is adjusted or engine braking is applied.  Once the appropriate distance is restored, the car will accelerate back up to the pre-set speed. Should heavy braking be required, a visual warning is flashed and an audible sound alerts the driver to take action. ACC, available later in the model year, requires the fitment of Saab’s head-up display.