Performance

The Jaguar X-Type range features Saloon and estate variants, with a choice of 2.5 and 3.0 V6 petrol, or 2.0 and 2.2 Diesel engines. The diesels are the biggest sellers, and are some of the quietest and most refined engines in class, with owners reporting on average 45 – 50 mpg from the 2 litre, dropping slightly to 42 – 46 mpg on the 2.2 model, but it’s worth mentioning that the swifter 2.2 gets a 6 speed gearbox, whereas the 2.0 has to make do with a 5 speeder, which makes a noticeable difference on motorways. Jaguar has just introduced an automatic gearbox on the 2.2 diesel, whereas previously only the petrol variants had the auto box as an option. These petrol V6 engines aren’t as frugal as the diesels, with fuel consumption averaging mid to late twenties in real world driving, but they are creamily smooth units, and a good option for diesel-phobics, as they lend a traditional Jaguar feel to the cars.

Ride & Handling

The V6 petrols give you 4 wheel drive as standard, whereas the diesels are front wheel drive only. The 4WD system does add a bit of weight to the car, but makes up for it in the corners, giving very dependable, neutral handling, and when really pushed, the car will settle into a lovely 4 wheel drift, although this probably won’t be natural behaviour for your typical Jag customer, who will prefer to enjoy the effortless wafting this car gives you. The diesels are also decent drivers tools, with a balanced chassis, and positive (if a little numb) steering. The sport model in particular gives a great combination of refinement and handling prowess, with out the overly firm, crashy suspension of a similar BMW or Audi.

Reliability

Jaguar Cars have fought hard to build a reputation for reliability, and the Halewood plant where the X-Type (and the new Freelander) are produced has recently won top awards for quality across Europe. The X Type’s been around since 2001, and any problems have long since been resolved. The dealers are top notch too, and always rank highly in the JD Power and Top Gear ownership surveys.

Specifications

The S model is the entry into the Jaguar X-Type range and has a good standard spec: 17” alloys, climate, CD, half leather electric seats, bluetooth, cruise control and more. You’ve got a price jump then to the SE, which is much more of a traditional Jaguar spec, classic style full leather seats and interior, a fantastic and easy to use (take note BMW) touch screen Sat Nav system, heated seats and windscreen, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights and much more, It’s the one to go for if you’ve got the cash. Top spec Sovereign models are fully loaded, but don’t get you that much more than the SE for the additional cash, with the Sport Premium model equipped with the sports seats, suspension and larger 18" Alloys.

Living with the Car

There are a lot of good cars in this segment, and despite getting on a bit, the classic looks of the Jaguar mean it hasn’t really aged. It will always appeal to the more mature buyer, but once settled inside, it is a nice place to be, and no one does wood and leather like Jaguar, It gives a much warmer ambience to the cabin than the German manufacturers, you’ve just got to like that sort of thing. Controls are sensibly laid out, and the driving positions is comfortable, although very tall drivers may struggle. Estates give a nice flat load bay, and compare favourably to the premium competitors, but don’t have quite the overall space of something like a Renault Laguna.

Summary

A Great overall ownership proposition, the Jaguar X Type gives a refined alternative to the opposition. Classic British looks and a completely different feel to the German marques, with a much more refined ride than the equivalent BMW or Audi, and a much better spec for the money than either. With great savings to be had over list price, the X-Type is a wonderful all round buy.

Learning Resources

For further information on the Jaguar range visit Jaguar UK: Jaguar UK Website.

For education and to learn about the history of Jaguar Cars see Wikipedia: Wikipedia History of Jaguar Cars.