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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  Great Car and a Great Deal - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Luv The Jag - February 22 - 8:46 am

  Bought this car in December and I have 5000 miles on it now. No problems and love it more every day. Outstanding looks, good performance, improving gas mileage with age (now up to 26 Hwy), and a level of exclusivity that you dont find in the competitors. Great in the snow and ice, handles great and is smooth and quiet. Great leather interior. If you can get your hands on one of these cars, go for it. The best kept secret in cars.

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  $350 hood emblem! - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By lcatchpo - February 6 - 7:23 am

  Not once but twice Ive had the hood emblem stolen. Ill never own another Jaguar because of this. They could at least have mounted it differently instead of putting a spring inside. Its such a shame because this car is really a dream car. Luxurious and sporty and affordable but youll need the savings to replace your emblem every few months.

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  Best certified car out there - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By P Medina - January 28 - 10:50 am

  I just purchased this 2004 Jaguar X- type and so far I love this car. I was looking for a nice affordable luxury car and decided to check out Jaguar. I was very impressed with the style of the car. The interior is very nice and comfortable with all of the options a nice luxury car should have. I love driving a 5 spd and love that the x- type has it. I can not wait to test the awd in the bad weather. I have had the car for a short period of time but love it so far.

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  Nice to drive but typical Jag quality - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By PS2 - January 26 - 10:00 am

  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.

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  Is subdued ok? - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Padre for Life - January 20 - 10:00 am

  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.

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  Dream Car - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By J. Roames - January 14 - 2:00 am

  I was really impressed with how solid and well built this car is! Smooth, ride, more power than I will use, and just a beautiful design inside and out. This car will turn heads.

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  A Great Road Car - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By DAH - January 12 - 2:00 am

  The people that dont like this car must be people that have not drive this car more than around the block. It has great handling, acceleration and a soul. It is not refined like a Toyota Lexus, but it also doesnt look butt ugly like one either.

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  Jaguar vs Volvo - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By lanmare - January 12 - 2:00 am

  I have been a Volvo owner for over twenty years. I read about the X-type the day after Christmas. Stopped by the dealership and did a test drive. Bought the car on the spot. I love the way it hugs the road and negotiates mountain roads. Gas mileage is the same as I was getting on my newest Volvo. Folks at the dealership were great to me. They are very customer orientated. I like that.

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  X-Type Rates 5 out of 5 - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Dedalus Again - January 8 - 11:20 am

  For some reason, my review of the X-Type ("Edmunds Got a Lemon", 1/29/02)was listed as giving the car a 2 rating. Im not sure how that happened, but it mustve been a mistake, since I love the car. Hopefully, this follow-up review will clear things up. The X-Type deserves a 5 rating! (I noticed the same thing about some other reviews, such as "X-Type is an Excellent Car" and "Best in Class". Im sure those reviewers felt the car deserved better than a 2 rating, as well.)

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  Great car - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By ann boyle - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I owned a BMW M3 immediately prior to buying the Jaguar X. The X is far superior in handling, fuel economy, and comfort. I love driving it and it is dynamite on ice and snow. I didnt put snow tires on it and have had no trouble whatsoever getting around in bad weather.