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:
Showing 191 through 200 of 650.00-
JUNK - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By jcpil1515 - December 25 - 1:00 amThis is the biggest piece of junk i have ever bought. it started breaking down the 2nd day after i bought it. its has been in the shop 23 times. Warranty just ran out and we are getting rid of this car as quickly as possible. i have had problems with brakes, transmission, ignition, main computer, door panels. My wife and baby have been stranded 3 times because the car wouldnt start it would say security enabled and the only way to reset it is at the dealership. which is 100 miles from where we live. When i had problems with the brakes it went on for 3 months they had to get the engineers who designed the brakes and fly them into the dealership to finally fix them. Bottom line its junk
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X 2.5 Sport - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By JS - December 20 - 2:00 amIve put over 27k on my 2.5 X-type sport and have had few problems. Typical windshield jet seeping and trunk popper button are the only things Ive run across. Drove this through a huge snow storm in NY (from Boston to Detroit) and was blowing by SUVs. This car grips the road like none other and is a blast in the corners. 2.5 could use a little more kick, but w/ a 5 speed manual/Sport Pkg. its still a blast to drive. Great looks and awesome in the Michigan winters....wish I had opted for the heated seats though!
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Great little Jag - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
By wm - December 13 - 10:13 amTraded 2000 S-Type, hated to let it go, perfect for 130000 miles+. But needed wagon type AWD vehicle, not SUV. Still get admiring glances, although not as many as we did with S- Type. Comfortible, beautiful, classy, great in snow. Plenty of power, and most luxury features found in higher priced cars. Carpeting and sunvisors are cheap jack, but overall cars lives up to its image. Wife loves to drive it, and feels very secure doing so in adverse weather.
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Newbie - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By mcyrwv - December 8 - 10:00 amMy x-type is barely off the showroom floor, but I am -so far- impressed with the performance and build of the car. Spent countless hours researching features and price. After checking out the "Car Discussion" forums, was able to find a dealer (Rahal, Wexford, PA) and negotiate a terrific deal. This is a dream car with classic styling, despite the "Ford-like" criticisms by some reviewers. My experience places this car in the "superb" category. The x- type provides a lot of bang for the buck. If youre looking for a distinctive automobile at an affordable price, consider the X-Type Jauar. Zooooooom!
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second xtype - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
By a. amendola - November 30 - 8:06 amMy first was a 2002 X-Type 3.0. It was a good car, beautiful to look at, and never gave me any trouble. My new 2005 is the 3.0 sport. Wow! What a difference. I just love to drive it. Its exciting to both drive and look at. Jag addressed all the little quirks I had in the 2002. Great job Jaguar! World class fit and finish. I can also fit three sets of golf clubs inside walking bags in the trunk.
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Student - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By Student - November 29 - 2:00 amMy Jaguar x-type just hit 120,000 and still drives great! My dad purchased the car in 2005 and recently I purchased the car since I commute to school. The car drives well, and is extremely responsive. Its a very high performance car, and will perform to keep you safe. The interior is like riding in your living room. The car is very good in the snow. I have the FWD drive model, and while everyone else is skidding off the road, I am moving along with no problems. We are located in Ohio and I have driven on some nasty snow packed country roads with it, and it performed great. As a student who commutes, I needed a safe reliable car and Jaguar fits the bill.
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Great car, couple issues. - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By Sarah - November 23 - 6:50 pmWell I have to say that overall I love the car! However, the second week I had it (it was used 19K on it) the fuel pump went out during rush hour. After the initial nightmare of the towing, all was great with the Jag dealer. It is great looking, love the sunroof and it handles great!!
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Perhaps second Time a Charm - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By DrJRapp - November 22 - 10:00 amI just purchased my 2d X Type after having the first one collected by the manufacturer last year as a result of a lemon law action. My first comments are, that at about 4K less MSRP than my 2002 X-Type that the car is a much better 36K car than a 40K car. Secondly, fit and finish HAVE improved immeasurably, yet, I believe there is still some need to improve. Thirdly, for some reason the ride and handling are a bit "off" from the 2002 car, especially in the feel of the rear suspension. In fainess, I am comparing my recollection of a car with 10K miles to a car right out of the box in need of break in.
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Very Pleased So Far - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By kvlou - November 19 - 8:33 pmIm coming up on my lease. Ive decided to purchase the vehicle (after receiving a hefty incentive to do so). Ive not experienced many service issues at all. The minor ones I have had (moon roof, parking brake, etc.) were all covered by Jaguar. My dealer service experience has been excellent.
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X-Type Dissapointment - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By Spruceforest - November 19 - 10:00 amGood Points: Engine very responsive, great sound system, good visability, excellent handling. Bad Points: Many rattles and squeeks, very loud road and wind noise, breaks are also loud. Overall quality is poor, especially for a car costing over $40k. This was an impulse purchase. I did a lot of research and I was intending on buying an Audi A4 or A6. I regret my decision every day I drive to work.
