The Saab 9-5 is long overdue for an overhaul, with the current model first hitting the streets back in 1997. The next generation model, which is due in Autumn 2008 will be the first all-new Saab since 2001, and will feature avant-garde styling similar to the 9X concept car from 2005. UK’s Car Magazine has put together a possible rendering of the new car that it compiled with the help of Saab insiders.

The new 9-5 will feature a protruding nose, large vents and sculpted bodywork that will resemble Mercedes' coupe-like four-door CLS. It will be built on a heavily revised version of GM’s Epsilon II platform, which is shared by both Opel and Saturn, but could include “more than one suspension set up, different steering racks, and three levels of electronics," said GM Europe boss Carl-Peter Forster.

There will likely be an all-wheel drive model, plus two new V6 engines that include a V6 common rail diesel and range topping turbo petrol V6 developing upwards of 350bhp. Follow the jump to see the image in full.

[Source: Car Magazine]