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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  Jauguar S-Type/Style & Performance - 2001 Jaguar S-Type
  By Stephen Bailey - August 15 - 2:00 am

  Leased my 2001 S-Type in March, 2001 and havent looked back since. The car is a "looker" and different style than the typical Mercedes/BMW that seems to be everywhere. Ive enjoyed quality performance and a quiet ride. The S-Type has performed excellently and I look forward to driving it in the future.

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  JAG S-4 - 2000 Jaguar S-Type
  By SUPERGURU - August 1 - 2:00 am

  Runs great. mph 16-27. Side mirror reduces view when turning left.A little tight for back seat passengers. When turning into a street with speed bumps, a little bumpy. Go slow. Only car, besides previously owned XJ-6 that gets unsolicited rave compliments. When traveling over certain types of highway produces a bit high road noise. Radio station selection on steering wheel eliminates taking eyes off the road. Could use some front top windshield tinting, which I added. Ample trunk room.

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  2005 Jaguar S-type 3.0 Sport Package - 2005 Jaguar S-Type
  By kapriako1 - July 16 - 2:33 am

  I am amazed that Edmunds has such poor reviews for this car when they did not even test drive it. I would assume since this is the case with the test drive it is going off its older reviews and what the manufacturer says it changed. I love this car, never had a problem with it. I have owned several Jags throughout the years and this car stands out in ride and performance. I am also interested in the misinformation about Ford owning Jag for the XF, Ford no longer controls Jag or Land Rover that was out in 2008. I would say anyone wanting a Stype should buy one no older then 2005 but of course that is what i would say with any car. Make sure its been well maintained and keep it up.

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  From BMW M3 to Jag Type S? - 2000 Jaguar S-Type
  By Ernie Bello - July 13 - 4:16 pm

  Went from a 97 BMW M3 which was a wonderfully reliable, striking, and fun to drive vehicle because my wife was tired of shifting in heavy traffic, etc. Bought the jag from one of my customers- it has been a wonderful vehicle! No headaches, suffering, or disasters! Had a couple of small problems, quickly and easily solved. Thje car is certainly more sedate and refined than the M3, while the M3 is certainly the sportier of the two. The Jaguar has more options, more toys, etc. While the M3 is the better "race car" the Jaguar is certainly the choice for long, fast & relaxed cruising; the V8 engine has ample power for spirited driving in traffic. Good mileage, too: 27mpg highway.

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  Awesome Ride - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
  By racebrat - July 1 - 3:16 pm

  I wanted a Jaguar for a long time and finally purchased this one. It is far more fun to drive than any car I test drove or imagined it would be. This car has so much power I dont have to worry about merging onto a busy expressway. I get a compliment just about every day about how beautiful a car I have.

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  Whats not to love! - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
  By Linda Wells - June 26 - 4:30 am

  This car is an absolute pleasure. Its everything I hoped it would be. I have no complaints. Friends told me not to buy it, but its performance has proved them wrong, not to mention its classy appearance. Buy one, you wont be sorry!

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  Finally: Distinction! - 2004 Jaguar S-Type
  By JetDealer - June 12 - 9:10 pm

  At last, a car with truly unique style, excellent performance and a comparably reasonable price. After 12 years lounging in the top Lexus and Benz models (looking more generic every day) I couldnt be more pleased with the 4.2. Comments from public daily. The multi-adjust cockpit seating is virtually build-to-suit ... very comfortable. Exceptionally balanced handling.

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  Bought it 3 years ago with 139,000 miles - 2000 Jaguar S-Type
  By catcrazy3 - May 28 - 8:39 pm

  The only thing I have spent on is oil changes, worn brakes, tires, or general maintenance. This car even with the high mileage rides very very good. It is quiet and rides smoothly. It is aesthetically well proportioned and luxurious. I will say it isnt economical on gas. It also doesnt hug the road like my Volvo 950. It is solid feeling and I am enjoying the ride. I now have about 178,000 miles.

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  Nice, but VERY High Maintenance - 2005 Jaguar S-Type
  By JGY - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car and the dealer highly suggested I purchase the extended warranty, and Im glad I did. I like the car, drives great, is quiet, shifts smoothly, fuel economy is ok, around 21 avg. However, it is in the shop every 2-4 months for either oil leaks, electrical probs (my wife called me this morning saying the temp read out was flashing on and off), transmission fluid leaks, parking break motor going out, etc. and I have only had it 2 years. The dealer is normally good about giving me a loaner, and they always fix it for free, except when the gas tank latch broke. I thought that was bad, but didnt say much. All in all, I would never buy a Jag again, but I am glad I owned a nice car

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  rv - 2006 Jaguar S-Type
  By Rava - May 17 - 10:43 am

  Leather is great, every thing is electric, It has its own personal phone with hands free, a lot of room in it.