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 drive - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By eyemd - March 8 - 2:00 am

  only 2000 miles but seems like a winner. i have an xk8 conv. and this is as much fun. great in snow with awd and traction control(sport model)

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  kiwi - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By hugh - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I like the combination manual and automatic shift and the tightness of the performance. The response from the engine entering freeways is reasssuring. The trunk space is great.

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  I love my XJag - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Glenda - February 24 - 2:00 am

  Had the X 3.0almost a year. It is a great car. It reacts to my command. I average 50 miles a day to work on a interstate so you know I need comfort, ecomony and style. I go with the wind. Love my Baby X.

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  Love my Jag - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By moni - February 20 - 12:36 am

  I have had my car for a few years now. I bought it used in 06 and now it is 09. I have just done the 60k tune up and I still love it as much as the day I brought it home. It is older, has some scratches but I love the AWD (main reason I didnt buy a Mercedes) and it suits me and my personality. I have never had any problems at all with my car... and now if I had the money would probably buy the new one!! Jag baby... Jag.

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  Style and Class - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By ddaniels - February 19 - 6:53 pm

  I love my new X-Type. The car is absolutely beautiful to look at inside and out and a joy to drive. The build quality is excellent. Jaguar doesnt make extensive changes to their vehicles from year to year but simply improves the model, learning from the past. Its AWD system results in a vehicle that exhibites excellent handling on any road condition. The engine is deceptively powerfull. It is not the quickest from a dead stop (drag racing!), but has excellent pull from 30-100 mph, which is where most of my driving occurs. But if you want of pocket rocket you shouldnt be looking at a Jaguar and should consider a Dodge SRT-4 or maybe a BMW 330.

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  Not the stereo-type Jaguar - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Jeff - February 19 - 1:50 pm

  I have a 2.5 X-type with 5-speed which I purchased new and its now about 5 year old. This car has had one warranty issue in 5 years and otherwise it has been perfect. Handling is great although you must be willing to let the car lean into a curve on back roads. AWD has been great for trips to Vermont. I will definitely buy another Jaguar. The old stereotype of quality is way over. This is a very good entry luxury car for the money and its not just as common as dirt like so many other makes either German or Japanese.

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  Fun Car with Stunning Looks - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By Joe - February 18 - 12:33 pm

  I hope they dont stop making this car. Overall, remains the best looking car on the road since brought to the market. Period. Will age slowly and gracefully.

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  Looks Great - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By JagForLife - February 18 - 2:00 am

  What else to say? The front-end looks are what sold me on this car. This stands out from the Mercedes, the Audi and the Beemer. Needed the alignment and a road force balance immediately.

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  lemon - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By lemon - February 18 - 2:00 am

  The car was in the shop for 10 mechanical defects, trans, compressor, drive shaft, power steering rack, steering column. Vent grids came off, headlight washers came off. The dealer tells me they are swamped with this car for repairs. It was bought back by Jag. BEWARE!!!!!

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  Very Nice Used Purchase - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Massachusetts Driver - February 13 - 1:10 pm

  I recently purchased a 2004 jaguar x type. It runs great and is incredibly roomy. The trunk is huge and the rear seats fold down for skis, and other large objects in the trunk. I paid $18,300 for a 2004 (3 years old) and am happy with my deal. The car is quiet, comfortable and fast. I also have been averaging close to 25 MPG on the highway. I have checked out the BMWs and find as new and used cars they are very expensive. The Jag offers a less harsh ride, and a far more economical used purchase. All amenities work well, and the car is really a value. It also offers a slightly more individualistic and eccentric statement than the BMW.