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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  Great Sports Sedan - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
  By jagman73 - May 16 - 2:00 am

  I purchased a 2003 S-Type with the 5- speed manual transmission. Great performance, smooth shifting, very nice exhaust note on acceleration. Absolutely no problems to report. The car is beautifully styled inside and out, fit and finish is top-notch. I average right at 20 mpg around town, and took a 4 hour highway trip recently and the computer indicated 31.5 mpg. My third Jag and the best yet.

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  Wow....Former Lexus Driver is wowed by - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
  By RST - May 14 - 10:00 am

  I owned five Lexus Cars before jumping to a Jaguar S Type R earlier this year. The folks at Lexus seemed to have no interest in retaining a repeat customer, (my wife and I both had them, LS 400 and RX 300). I am so happy I made the switch. The staff at the dealership is fabulous, they actually remember your name. And contrary to what folks have said in the past, this Jag works great, NO repeat NO quality problems. I cant think of a rattle or a squeak to complain about. You have to drive this car to appreciate it..a nice commuter car during the week and a hell raiser on weekends... Im a convert..I might just end up with five..

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  Nice car - 2005 Jaguar S-Type
  By Gary Kirker - May 8 - 9:03 am

  This vehicle is fun to drive and comfortable. Best gas mileage for the power of this car I have ever owned.

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  JAGUAR LUXURY - 2004 Jaguar S-Type
  By reddotone - May 5 - 10:00 am

  The S-Jaguar turns heads when you are driving. However the ride is rough in comparison to our Lexus. You have to push the doors hard for them to shut. The contour seats looks good, but the edges of seats when getting in are hard. Once in and seated, the seats are comfortable. The headrest are also hard. The car was purchase on 31 Jul 04. We had an engine check light come on in Aug 04. They had to replace the gas tank. No other mechanical problems with the car. Service personnel are very friendly. Great styling.

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  Very Pleased - 2002 Jaguar S-Type
  By pdalon - May 2 - 2:00 am

  A real "eye-catcher" and thrill to drive. Ive never owned an automobile that got more complements. I havent owned this car long enough to rate mechanically, but I have had absolutely no problems. Highly recommend if you want something everyone else isnt driving.

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  Transmission/Gearbox/Locks in park - 2000 Jaguar S-Type
  By BLUEBLUE - April 26 - 2:00 am

  My Jaguar was a gift from my husband. I love the body style of the car, however I am suprised that a recall has not been issued for the cars defaults such as transmission/gearbox failure. My cars has gotten stuck in park on three occassion, it happens on inclines.I have also experienced several small items breaking/falling apart on the car such as latch on opening to gastank,windows falling out, gastank replaced, seatleather redone. One other problem I have had was valves replaced. esomd

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  S-Type - 2005 Jaguar S-Type
  By TBIRD - March 24 - 10:00 am

  This car is very fast. I expected the ride to be very firm, but I have been pleasantly surprised by how well it rides and handles. Jaguar has done an excellent job. The car is stylish, yet when you put your foot into it... wow.

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  S Type - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
  By gonzo - March 24 - 7:16 am

  When purchased the vehicle was a certified used vehicle. Went back within a month for a leak from the engine and had to constantly go back for transmission shifting problem, trunk latch stinking. The 4.2 engine is powerful. The exterior and interior is very elegant. Cup holders are too small.

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  Luxurious yet fussy - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
  By Baka_Otaku173 - March 16 - 6:16 pm

  About 3 weeks ago, I purchased this vehicle and boy was I proud. I am 25 and driving a Jag. Luckily I also kept my trusty 04 Honda Accord just in case and now I am glad that I did. The Jag started to act funny within 2 weeks of purchase. The light bulbs fried, the transmission makes funny noises if not warmed up (driven for over 30 mins), the steering makes a clanking noise when turning hard. I am honestly becoming quite concerned over this vehicle. But the price for it was great! Worse case scenario, over the life of the vehicle Ill throw in some money to keep it running as long as possible. It is a JAGUAR in the end. Known for their temperamental behaviors.

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  Jaguar S-Type R - 2006 Jaguar S-Type
  By islam7 - March 10 - 10:49 am

  I have 105,000 miles on my Jaguar S-Type R and its still runs like new. My Jaguar never broke down. The only money spend is for brakes pads, new tires and oil changes. I use only Mobil 1 synthetic oil for the oil change. Next month I’m going to have spend some money; for the 100,000 service (New Spark Plugs & Belts). This is the best car I owned.