Pontiac Vibe vs Saab 9-5
The Pontiac Vibe is more fuel-efficient at 28 MPG combined, against 22 MPG for the Saab 9-5. At EPA assumptions that is about $650 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Pontiac Vibe | Saab 9-5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 315 | 30 |
| Most reported problem | Air bags | Electrical system |
| Crashes and fires | 22 and 1 | 1 and 3 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 74,000 miles | 47,000 miles |
| Recalls | 7 | 2 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 28 MPG | 22 MPG |
| City and highway | 25 and 33 | 18 and 27 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,400 | $3,050 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 315 complaints for the Pontiac Vibe and 30 for the Saab 9-5. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 7 for the Pontiac Vibe, 2 for the Saab 9-5.