It’s been almost a year since the build on the 9-5 Sportwagon happened, a year of pure enjoyment and of driving this fantastic Saab. I’ve had a long standing admiration for the 9-5, but the earlier generation, not necessarily this specific model year. However, after a number of discussions over a suitable platform wagon for a major modified build, a late 2010 manual, Turbo Edition Sportwagon became the ultimate choice.

Being one of the last Saab 9-5 wagons to ever be manufactured was one bonus, but also benefitting from a host of bin end parts to create the Turbo Edition also helped; audio upgrade with sat nav, perforated heated seats, folding mirrors, Hirsch satin grille surrounds plus all of the usual Aero specification, gives it a real edge over other options.

It’s had a year to settle in to its new guise, an utterly sorted sleeper that just enhances and showcases how wonderful these Saab 9-5’s truly are. When driving, it’s easy to forget you’re in an exceptionally practical estate car, capable of whisking a family along at a very rapid pace, all in Saab’s legendary comfort. Not only that, but the agile handling is an absolute joy, especially with the addition of the limited slip diff.

I tend to drive all of my cars throughout the year, I don’t have a specific choice for Autumn / Winter, and instead, tend to keep them all in service, but the Saabs have a special place for me. The colder months tend to evoke thoughts of long drives with a back drop of wonderful Autumn colours and light, icy Winter landscapes that remind me of it’s Nordic heritage, and the comforting embrace of Saab’s warming interior.