Of course, it might be just coincidence that Saab Australia has a second order of its 9000CS 50^th Anniversary Edition on the water, but examples of the first shipment are already in short supply.

Which is not surprising, given the blend of luxury and practicality offered in what is already a very appealing vehicle.

Shape of the 9000 is distinctively Saab, and so is what lies under the hood.

Cars of similar size and weight here in Australia usually run big engines of six or eight cylinders, making this a rugged individualist with four cylinders and just 2.3 litres, although three different turbocharged versions are available.

The same basic engine is made to produce three different power outputs; there are 147kW and 165kW versions, while the CS model tested uses a ‘low blow’ turbo to produce a still-respectable 125kW.

Setting the Anniversary model apart externally is its "Aero-look" styling, less aggressive than the range-topping 9000 Aero but still striking with discrete spoilers, wheel-arch flares and skirts. It also carries 16-inch alloy wheels.

Open the door to be greeted by the rich aroma of leather, from the Anniversary’s tasteful interior trim of charcoal leather and light grey suede, and you immediately notice the steering wheel. A work of art in wood and leather, a delight to look at as well as to hold.

The cockpit (and it seems right to call it that) has an angular look that is typically Saab, the dashboard looking from some angles like it belongs in an aircraft instead of a car.

But car-type civilisation is evident in two drink holders, of different sizes, in the console, one-touch wipers and twin vanity mirrors, with lift up covers and illumination, in the sunvisors which are spring-loaded with limited choices available as to their positions.

It took me a while to get really comfortable at the steering wheel, which is adjustable for reach but not for tilt, but it is worth persevering with.

Similarly, the climate control seemed impossible to figure out until I looked in the owner's manual (finally taking a logical action), and it suddenly became glaringly simple.

And of course, it has a left handed indicator stalk - any argument of that being awkward when cornering probably means you are indicating too late anyway, though it can be a hassle when overtaking in a manual car, or an auto being driven as a manual.

On the road, the 9000 can feel like two different cars - depending on the throttle position.

It can glide forward in a suitably genteel manner, but it also has some very serious grunt for a wonderful feeling of acceleration induced by torque rather than power, and on the highway it does 110kmh on a relaxed 2500rpm.

No mistaking that shape - it could only be a Saab.

If you must have a steering wheel, it might as well be a good one.

Leather AND suede? Ohh, yes please.

Don't be fooled - the 2.3 litre engine has serious grunt.

A big cargo area, and easy to access.