As Saab’s luxury model, the 9-5 must be kept fresh and technologically advanced. To keep the 2006 9-5 at the forefront of Saab’s line-up and competitive with other brands, the company restyled it from the windshield pillars forward, increased horsepower, improved interior aesthetics, and added innovative technology. One of the more interesting updates is an engine management system that increases torque in models with the standard manual transmission from 258 lb.-ft. to 273 lb.-ft. under full throttle acceleration. Maintaining sporty handling characteristics is also important to Saab. For 2006, chassis dynamics have been refined to provide drivers a faster, more responsive feel to improve handling characteristics.