2006 9-5 SportCombi BioPower

[Jaguar D-Type]

Championed by greenies for its lower noxious emissions but dismissed by enthusiasts for its lower energy density compared with gasoline, ethanol has heretofore found little love on American roads. But that may soon change. Saab's 9-5 2.0t BioPower--on sale now in Sweden and under consideration for other markets, including ours--is the first car to combine turbocharging and flex-fuel capability (gasoline, ethanol, or any ratio of the two), and the results are 200-proof proof that alcohol fuel can be as mean as it is green. The engine's 148 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque on straight gasoline jump to 184 hp and 207 lb-ft with ethanol.

Saab claims it made 1367 alterations to the 2006 9-5, including a wider rear track, a cabin makeover, and cleaner front and rear styling. With retuned dampers, springs, and antiroll bars plus quicker steering, this latest 9-5 is more responsive and handles better.