Overview & Reviews

Early in the 21st century, Jaguar and then parent company Ford decided to expand the reach of this historically upper-crust British automotive marque. On the surface, the Jaguar X-Type sedan represented a revolutionary step for the brand when it debuted for the 2002 model year. Not only was it compact in size and comparatively affordable, it featured all-wheel drive -- a fact that also set it apart from most German and Japanese competitors in the entry-level luxury sedan segment.

Alas, the Jaguar X-Type's engineering underneath wasn't as newsworthy. The basic steel structure of the car and many of its drivetrain and suspension components were shared with the Ford Mondeo, a regular family sedan sold in Europe. Though car companies with regular and upscale brands frequently cross-pollinate hardware, the X-Type's plebian roots were always too apparent. Even when it was fresh on the market, the compact Jag was hard-pressed to compete with most rivals in terms of both driving dynamics and cabin furnishings. Consequently, the X-Type was relegated to bottom-feeder status in a highly competitive segment full of younger, quicker cars until it was discontinued for 2008.

If you want a Jaguar on the cheap, the X-Type is the way to get into one -- but doesn't mean you should do it. It may be a pleasant enough daily companion for those fixated on "leaping" hood ornaments, but entry-luxury car shoppers with an eye for detail will be put off by its overall lack of refinement. The bottom line is that newer, better engineered competitors offer more value for the money. We recommend that you check them out first.

Used Jaguar X-Type Models

The Jaguar X-Type was produced from 2002-'08. Available as a sedan and later Sportwagon (beginning in '05), the X-Type featured Jaguar's classic exterior styling cues, with flowing lines, hooded oval headlights, a rectangular grille and elegantly arched roof. All were meant to recall the elegant XJ-series sedans.

Originally, Jaguar offered X-Type buyers the choice of a 194-horsepower 2.5-liter V6 or a 3.0-liter V6 (first rated at 231 hp and later 227). A five-speed manual gearbox was available, but most buyers still ordered the five-speed automatic transmission. Note that Jaguar dropped the 2.5 model altogether after the 2005 model year (the smaller engine was never available on the Sportwagon). All-wheel drive, which helps to improve traction in wet or snowy conditions, was always standard.

Like most small luxury cars, the Jaguar X-Type was comfortable for up to four passengers but cramped for five. Buyers should also note that the car's dramatic roof line made for tighter headroom than in some other entry-luxury compacts. The Sportwagon at least provided a bit more rear headroom than the sedan, and up to 50 cubic feet of storage space out back when the split rear seat was folded down. On both the sedan and wagon, the rear door openings were on the small side, making ingress and egress difficult.

Our editors were generally put off by the X-Type's interior, which had an unfortunate blend of traditional Jaguar elements -- wood veneers, supple leather upholstery and a restrained use of chrome trim -- and mundane plastic parts more appropriate for a Ford rental. We also noted build quality problems on early models. Things improved somewhat following a 2004 freshening, so if you feel absolutely compelled by the X-Type, we'd at least recommend sticking with the examples produced for that model year or later. Also, features like satellite radio and Bluetooth were added in its twilight years.

On the road, the Jaguar X-Type offered a comfortable ride for the most part, but the suspension transmitted too much harshness over bumps. Handling was tepid as entry-level luxury sedans and wagons go, and the all-wheel-drive system was slow to transfer power when wheel slip occurred. Acceleration was passable, but hardly thrilling on a car with a mid-$30Ks price tag.

Overall reliability was never impressive on the Jaguar X-Type, specifically during early model years.

User Reviews:

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  Against the grain - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By baisley1 - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Much better car than "experts" say. Drawbacks are in two areas: 1) Not enough oomph: care must downshift to get away from itself. 2) Rear seat legroom is grossly inadequate. Big plus is the tremendous first rate service of the dealer (Heritage Jaguar, Freeport, NY)

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  If you dont drive a Jag you dont drive - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By GillyBurksJag - December 27 - 2:00 am

  I just recently bought a 2004 3.0liter all wheel drive Jaguar. For all of those disbelievers, and people who say this car resembles a Ford "POS" Taures you have another thing coming. The #.0 specifications includes a 227 motor which is the equilivance to a Subura Impreza WRX. The car off the line is a little weak in the 1st gear, but as soon as u shift into 2nd, you realized you are getting your moneys worth. I paid 31,890 out of the lot for this vechile, and it was worth every penny. Take a test drive and you will be hooked.

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  Fun Jag - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By fs - December 26 - 10:00 am

  My experience with my x-type started out poor with my Jag locked away in the shop for two weeks because of sound coming from Drive shaft. What we all found out was the prop shaft has bearings that were exposed to salt air which caused the vechile to make a loud noise when reving about 2500 RPM in cold weather. The problem was fixed and the car rides great,it has a growl with the dual exhaust,but the car is quick. The exterior look it great,and it rides like a true sports car with the AWD their is a degree of confidence. I would recommend the all weather package and Premium package for those areas that need it. I love driving the car and would buy it again.

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  luv it - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By trichia - December 21 - 2:00 am

  My first Jag and I love it. Never thought I could afford one. Perfect for women. Classy looking for the price.

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  Special car - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By buckeyebrit - December 18 - 1:36 am

  This was my 1st Jaguar purchase in the States after having 2 UK models back in Blighty before emigrating to the US. I was dubious about buying a US specification car after enjoying a X- type & a S-type over the pond. My concerns were soon put to bed after I took the car for a test drive. I loved it, despite the steering wheel being on the wrong side. When you sit behind the wheel of a Jag, you know youre sat in a car that all the "others" aspire to match! My wife had been "Japanese cars only" until she drove the Jag. Now she wont even look at anything else. It handles like a sports car, the AWD is awesome, the quality and driving experience are unmatched from anything else out there!

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  First JAG - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Mike Horton - December 17 - 10:00 am

  After being a Lincoln man for years Im snagged by the cat. Better ride than my Continental. Better fuel economy than expected!!! But the Premium Fuel Sucks. A real head turner.(a lot of the neighbors have 3 and 5 series) Fun to drive and manuver in the city. Had to have the dealer check the front alignment for some freathering on the front tires.(Wonderful dealer experience) The X wont be my last Jag.

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  Jaguar x type - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By MamaLisa - December 10 - 10:00 am

  I love my car. It handles beautifully and I get good gas milege. I have done many road trips and never had any problems. a very luxurious interior and most enjoyable for all passengers.The few things that did happen were immediately handled by the dealer with excellent communication and attention to needs. Its the best model to drive during the winter months and handled beautifully during snow storms up and down hills. This is the first leased car that I actually plan on replacing when the lease is up this coming spring. I highly reccomend this model.

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  Fantastic bang for the buck - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By chipster - December 10 - 10:00 am

  I opted for the 3.0 Sport Package. Excellent vehicle with a significant offering of luxury, for a very impressive price. The Sport package adds nice, tight handling. The interior is gorgeous, and the seats are extremely comfortable. The auto climate control is easy to operate, and keeps the cabin quite pleasant. The Engine could be a tad beefier. The 320-watt sound system, gets rather distorted at higher volumes, and the subwoofer lacks "punch". Shift pattern is very smooth, but the "sport" mode seems to offer little value, or shift change. Sport package affords an array of bigger, nicer wheels.

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  Its A Jag - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By jaghappy - December 2 - 2:00 am

  Yes, it is an entry level luxury car and it is fair to call it a kitty as opposed to a cat. But it IS a Jag and it has been nothing but pleasure to own and drive.

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  2004 Jaguar - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By James - November 27 - 6:16 am

  The odometer on my X-Type just turned 60k w/ no major problems to report. The car has had a loud squeal which appears to emanate from the underside of the car since the day I brought it home. The dealer told me its normal, that all Jaguars make noise and the decibels are acceptable. A sound shield was installed to muffle the noise, but I still hear it. Aside from that, the dash vents popped off. The dealer replaced them, citing a defect in the plugs that secure them to the dashboard. Overall, the car is nice and is a pleasure to drive. Relatively short money for a luxury vehicle. Id likely buy another, but will make certain it doesnt squeal before I drive out of the dealership.