Overview & Reviews

The Jaguar S-Type was always a bit of a throwback. Stately and posh, the S-Type's exterior design showed shades of the '60s Jaguar saloons, from which its designers cribbed generously. The distinct styling also distinguished the S-Type from other luxury sedans on the market, which more typically feature sharp edges and angled surfaces.

At its debut for 2000, the Jaguar S-Type signified the first real fruit of the Ford-Jaguar partnership. Born as the classier-looking twin of the Lincoln LS, the S-Type was the brand's first true competing model in the modern midsize luxury segment. However, any sort of dynamic excellence exhibited by that platform faded quickly and the S-Type lived long past its expiration date. Its once-novel retro styling eventually became synonymous with a brand perilously stuck in the past. As such, one of the car's more up-to-date competitors might be a better choice. Also, you'll want to pay close attention to the model's history, as Jaguar made continual improvements to rectify early mistakes.

Most Recent Jaguar S-Type

The Jaguar S-Type was a four-door sedan produced from 2000-'08. It survived for one generation and there were some incremental changes over the years, mainly on the inside. It was replaced by the Jaguar XF

Originally, Jaguar rated the S-Type's 3.0-liter V6 at 240 horsepower (this number lowered slightly for 2002 and '04) and the 4.0-liter V8 at 281 hp (reduced to 277 hp for 2002). A five-speed automatic was at first standard, but for 2003, Jaguar replaced it with a six-speed and made a new five-speed manual transmission standard on the 3.0 trim. It was never popular with consumers, however, and Jaguar dropped it two years later. For 2004, the optional V8 was upped to 4.2 liters and 293 hp. Two years later, it was raised to 300 hp.

Regardless of year, we found the V6 to be underpowered given the S-Type's considerable weight, and recommended sticking with the beefier V8. Despite the light steering and a soft suspension -- two deliberate traits of the brand -- all S-Types nevertheless felt stable through the turns.

The most important addition to the Jaguar S-Type came in 2003, when the 390-hp supercharged R trim was released. From 2004 to its final year, the S-Type R produced 400 hp. While it was capable of doing the 0-60 drill in just 5.3 seconds, there was more to the R than mere muscle. It was an all-around performer, equipped with larger disc brakes, an adjustable sport-tuned suspension system and 18-inch wheels (19s for 2008). Still, the S-Type R could never stand toe-to-toe with the best high-performance sedans from Germany.

At first, the S-Type's cabin was widely considered unbecoming of the Jaguar name. Both the design and materials seemed down-market and indicative of the car's Ford roots. For 2003, the interior received a thorough overhaul, bringing it more in line with the pricier XJ in terms of design and luxury trappings. The interior was upgraded again in 2005 (along with the exterior), but changes were minor. Nevertheless, controls maintained a certain "ye-olde" quality to them and switchgear (as on the XJ) seemed cheaper than the rest of the car.

Equipment levels were also increased as the many years went by, from the optional CD changer when introduced to Bluetooth phone connectivity in its waning hours. And because it was a Jaguar, leather and wood trim were never in short supply.

In reviews of the Jaguar S-Type, consumers typically praise the car's styling and features. They've commented unfavorably about its small trunk and the poor shift quality in earlier cars. The Jaguar's overall reputation for reliability is also not as good as those of other midsize luxury sedans from Japanese automakers.

User Reviews:

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  2005 Jag S type Racing - 2005 Jaguar S-Type
  By kevin pantera - February 14 - 11:40 pm

  clean lines with guts under the hood. moves right along with a little road noise.

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  Elegance+Performance=Jag 2001 S - 2001 Jaguar S-Type
  By H.S. - January 22 - 2:00 am

  This car is by far the best car I had (and had them all!). Extreme elegance with supreme performance makes it stand far a part with other similar sedans, foreign and domestic.

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  Great car. - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
  By Ph0enix* - January 6 - 10:00 am

  This is just a great car. I fell in love with it the first test drive. A great car.

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  My rainy day car - 2000 Jaguar S-Type
  By Digby - December 19 - 2:00 am

  I purchased a 2000-S with 24,000 miles from Budget. I figured that a car with a supposedly poor reputation would have been driven less than say a Ford Victoria.I had it appraised by a Jag dealer and there were assorted minor faults. Budget paid for the repairs totaling about $400. From reviews, I always use the brake pedal or the parking brake before moving from park to drive. So far, no problems, a delight to drive, seafoam color (a rare one). Mileage is poor, but with a car like this why complain. When I want to be pampered, its the S type. Listening to the beat of the car is so important for any car. Do this with the Jag and it will serve you well.

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  s-type - 2000 Jaguar S-Type
  By Jim Masterson - December 18 - 10:06 am

  Great car to drive. Handles well except on snowy roads. Fuel mileage not great. Inside configuration is well designed. Excellent pick-up.

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  Even Better Than I Thought - 2004 Jaguar S-Type
  By at002f - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my 04 S-Type for a week now and couldnt be happier. The V8 engine is quiet, yet very powerful. The car rides smooth, I dont feel every bump in the road, even with 18 inch rims on the car. A testiment to the suspension. The interior is very well thought out, a monster upgrade from the 02 model. People notice this car, so be prepared to get lots of attention in it. As for negatives, the upgraded Alpine system is good, but nowhere near the Bose systems found in many luxury cars. Also, ALL of the front speakers are in the doors, the system needs some tweeters on the dash for a more complete sound in the front of the car.

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  Classy and Fun - 2005 Jaguar S-Type
  By Tom B. - December 11 - 1:00 am

  This is my second Jag S-type. I first bought a pre-owned 200 model. This time, I bought a new one, with the VDP trim package on it. It has a ton of power and pick-up, not to mention the smooth ride you expect from a Jaguar and a rear-wheel drive automobile. The dealership is very attentive to my requests.

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  Jaguar 2005 - 2005 Jaguar S-Type
  By George Knapp - December 1 - 10:23 pm

  Outstanding combination of handling and power, with good fuel economy for an 8 cylinder car. I am averaging just under 22 mpg combined.

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  Jaguar S-Type R - 2004 Jaguar S-Type
  By Ed Campbell - November 24 - 10:00 am

  Third week of ownership, Carnival red with sand interior. Replaced a 96 Impala SS, far more deluxe (to say the least), noticeably more powerful. Excellent commuter machine, fat torque curve gives effortless acceleration. Fine view down the bonnet with beautifully chromed cat on display. Opulent Brit interior makes competition look drab. Instrument cluster lets the side down a bit. Ride is supple, and despite the 18" wheels, tire noise is subdued. On smooth surfaces eerily quiet. A great pleasure to drive.

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  gets looks - 2004 Jaguar S-Type
  By spice - November 18 - 10:00 am

  People really look twice at this car. The appearance is quite unusual and distinctive. And, the "retro look" is really in now. The creature comforts of this auto are tops. It is like driving a legend