Saab UK | Models, Prices & Alternatives

About Saab cars

Saab’s story begins in 1945 when its parent company, the aircraft manufacturer Saab AB, began a project to design a small car. Its first model was launched in 1949 and set the tone for decades of unconventional yet clever vehicles.

The Saab 900 series and the 9000 are perhaps the best-known of its cars, and they evolved into the 9-3 and 9-5. Both had features that haven’t been repeated since, but made a lot of sense - like the ‘Night Panel’ which turned off all the dashboard lights but the speedometer for improved visibility in the dark, or an ignition key by the handbrake to reduce impact from the steering column in a crash.

Saab’s safety record was tremendous, and its cars were always built to be incredibly strong in an impact. This sort of thinking costs a lot of money, though, and Saab struggled with finances - not helped by having to compete with incredibly popular German opposition. Saab declared bankruptcy in 2011 and the remnants were purchased by a newly formed Swedish company called NEVS - but that company stopped producing vehicles in 2014.

For those in the market, a Saab is an unconventional but not undesirable used buy. They’re solid vehicles, which still feel fairly modern to drive - though a BMW equivalent will always be more dynamic. Parts and servicing is kept up through dedicated specialists, but bear in mind that even the newest Saab for sale is well over a decade old.

What our car expert says

“Saabs were never the cars for everyone - but those who loved them were brand-loyal until the end.”

Mat Watson

Chief Content Officer

Expert Car Reviewer

Saab FAQs

When did Saab stop making cars?

Saab’s last cars were made in 2011 with some built until 2014 by NEVS, a separate firm that purchased the remnants of the Saab brand.

What happened to Saab?

Saab was owned by General Motors, but after many years of struggling financially it declared bankruptcy in 2011.

Who owns Saab?

Rights to the Saab name have reverted back to Saab AB, the original aerospace and defence company.

Alternatives to Saab cars

Saab hasn’t sold new vehicles in over a decade and so we don’t sell them on Carwow. If you want something that’s Swedish, safe and a bit unconventional, you could check out Volvo - or if you want other premium, posh cars, have a look at BMW, Mercedes or Lexus. Check Carwow to see the latest new and used models.