4 Star Reviews for 2003 Jaguar X-Type

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.50/5 Average
148 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Jaguar introduced its youth-oriented X-Type last year, so 2003 holds little changes for the baby Jag. There's a slight reduction in the price of the base model, and electrochromic mirrors are standard on all trim levels. Cars equipped with the 3.0-liter mill now get 17-inch wheels and a CD player as standard equipment.

Pros:
  • Reasonable base pricing, sporty handling, all-wheel drive, currently the only Jaguar available with a manual transmission.
Cons:
  • Spartan interior design, some less-than-prestigious Ford-themed switchgear and exterior styling cues, price goes up with options faster than you can say "Ford Mondeo."

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 148.00
  • Nice to drive but typical Jag quality - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    I bought this car because of its handling and appeal. I love the drive, particularly in bad weather (40/60 split awd is amazingly good) and on the highway. BUT, the build quality is the worse Ive ever had to deal with. Ive owned about 15 cars, most bought new and this is by far the worse. Even before the car was delivered the cooling system sprung a leak. Since then, Ive had many problems with trim rattles/squeaks/broken parts and the engine runs rougher at idle than old Hyundai Pony.

  • Is subdued ok? - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    IMO the X-type lacks the soul and character that BMW, Audi, and now Acura do well building into their cars. It definitely looks the part, with its Jaguar styling cues and the leaper on the hood. But it doesn’t have any of driver dynamics (handling, performance, or quantitative feel) or the solidity (build quality, qualitative feel) that the aforementioned class leaders have. Yes, the X-type rides well, handles competently, and has adequate zip but it doesnt exude that driving excitement to make we want to drive it hard and fast. Maybe thats what Jaguars after, a subdued experience. If thats what you’re looking for the X- type is right up your alley.

  • Overall, I love my Jag - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    After trading in my big SUV I am having fun driving again. Its a pretty car, maneuvers well, has good pick up, and feels secure in all types of weather (really tested due to our tough New England winter this year). However, interior space feels a bit tight, and pricing with options is a bit high, which in particular, causes me to be disappointed when I the similar styling and paint colors on Fords out on the road (Jag should be more distinctive). Overall, though Ive had no complaints and I love my Jag.

  • Privileges and Pleasures of a Jag Driver - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    "She" has been in my life now for almost a year after being introduced to me by a British salesman as my first car. We have endured the haterism of the Ford jokes & negativity of her brands past failures in reliability as she continues to live up to a tradition of luxury & a quality performance automobile. Against all odds, she has performed far more better than anyone expected. Surprisingly, my most harshest critics have never driven in a Jaguar, therefore they have never experienced its distinction & luxurious feel. Shes a rarity on any road. She drives through the Northeast winter storms like an SUV with her AWD capability.

  • Jag X-Type good value used - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    Car has lived up to expectations. It is not a performance monster, but has good pick up and decent gas mileage (hwy has hit 28 mpg, averages 26-27, around 22 in town). Build quality is acceptable and the interior is simple but well done. Awd and braking are the best features on the X-type, especially for winter weather driving.

  • surprisingly smooth drive - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    I got this X2.5 only a week ago, but I am quite impressed by its handling and the smooth ride. Before this car I leased a BMW 328i(99 model), it was a fine car with nice handling. But the gas mileage sucked and the ride was quite bumpy. The X-type feels much stabler and smoother on the highway. And I like the handling of X-type better. One complain is the space (head room and leg room) should be bigger.

  • 2003 - XType - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    Growing up 4 blocks from a Jaguar Dealership, I have been wanting a Jag since I was 10. Well, this year(38 years later) with the great leasing deals Jaguar offered, I finally got one. The X-Type is all I expected & more. I have to say its the most fun car I have ever driven. It handles just like a European Luxury/Sports car should. Step on the gas, and youre gone! The leather seats wrap you up. The interior appointments are what you would expect on cars costing twice as much, and the exterior styling are classic Jaguar all the way. If your looking for a Luxury car with guts, at a very reasonable price, the Jaguar X-Type is the car for you.

  • this isnt a jag - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    This car is more Ford than Jaguar. The exterior design is as bland as a Taurus (except the front end). Even the engine is built by Ford. Im not saying I hate Ford, its just that Ford and Jaguar have separate segments in the market. Jaguar customers might feel belittled by Fords involvement.

  • Worth the extra HP - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    Tried the 2.5L SE and was surprised at the lack of pull, lots of gutsy noise but no real grunt. Then tried the 3.0L, the difference is remarkable as soon as you turn the key. Much gruntier sound, loads more wellie and some effective top end traction. Fuel consumption isnt that much more, but early days yet. If youre still deciding, go for the 3L, you wont regret it.

  • Do Not Let The Review Fool You - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
    By -

    Bravo to Ford for resurrecting this line of vehicle. Do not let the reviews fool you; this is a nice car for the money. The 2.5 is quick enough and very nimble. In fact, the 3.0 does not feel that much quicker. The dual exhaust (Y-Pipe) is a nice surprise for the 03 model year producing more torque at higher speeds. Jaguar service is superb and is welcome after SUFFERING through VOB Nissan in Rockville, MD service for years. Free maintenance is what finally swung my decision to lease this car. The Jaguar loyalty program and road-side assistance are also very nice.

Jaguar X-Type Reviews By Year:
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