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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  Privileges and Pleasures of a Jag Driver - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By gentlemanrobby - December 31 - 4:56 am

  "She" has been in my life now for almost a year after being introduced to me by a British salesman as my first car. We have endured the haterism of the Ford jokes & negativity of her brands past failures in reliability as she continues to live up to a tradition of luxury & a quality performance automobile. Against all odds, she has performed far more better than anyone expected. Surprisingly, my most harshest critics have never driven in a Jaguar, therefore they have never experienced its distinction & luxurious feel. Shes a rarity on any road. She drives through the Northeast winter storms like an SUV with her AWD capability.

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  True sports sedan - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By fasteddiefromLI - December 21 - 12:16 am

  Handles nearly as well as the Infinity G35, but better looking and a more luxury looking interior. Not as many luxury and comfort features as the Acura TL but much, much more fun to drive. Better handling and better all around than the new Maxima. A very good sports sedan for the money.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By chuggins - December 20 - 6:16 pm

  This can has some of the best features and quality craftsmanship I have seen in any vehicle I have ever owned.

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  Outstanding value when purchased used - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Tom - December 6 - 11:33 am

  I did a lot of research before deciding on this car, a mint 2002 X-Type 2.5 Automatic in Carnival Red. I had wanted an entry-luxury car to handle my long daily commute and I looked at BMW, Mercedes, Saab, Infiniti, etc. I was drawn to this cars great looks and the comments I get from others confirm that. I knew of Jaguars dubious history of poor reliability and also read many of the lukewarm and even negative reviews. I am very pleased with this car. It is an amazing value on the used market. I can understand that some who bought new may be a little underwhelmed because of the price. But at the price I paid this car is a steal. I was able to add an extended warranty.

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  Awesome Vehicle! - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By William Román - November 30 - 11:23 pm

  This is my first "luxury" car, and can tell you I am very impressed. My family was always the "Volvo" family so that was comparison standard. Overall, I am very satisfied with my purchase and can tell you I will continue to upgrade as my lease expires.

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  Get one NOW! - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Rich N - November 30 - 2:00 am

  It is a JAGUAR! Its fun to drive and afordable...end of message!

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  2004 x type - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By mr riley - November 28 - 10:00 am

  All wheel drive fully loaded for in the low to mid 30s and its a jag. What more could you ask for. The C class benz tops out around the same if not more and dosnt even have full power seats of the list of features this car has, all around its a great buy ad a fun classy car I highy reccomend this vehicle having ownded a benz and a bmw the jag blows them away on style and price.

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  Great Car - 2007 Jaguar X-Type
  By BrianJaguar - November 24 - 2:33 pm

  This is an awesome car, I bought it and I love the handling. It just hugs the corner, with its 227 HP, it just gets up and goes. Its luxury with power, I love it!!

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  Decent Entry Level Luxury Car - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By ivanrothschild - November 20 - 12:14 pm

  Ive had my X-Type for two years. It handles well. Not quick when accelerating until you get over 2500rpms. Handles fantastic in snow. Ive had to rebuild one of the brake calipers. Every imaginable lightbulb has gone out (replaced easily and cheaply). Overall it is reliable, but not super comfortable on long trips. Gas mileage is so-so. Its a head-turner, but I quickly realized Id like a car that rides smoother and handles better. Suspension feels stiff. Great deal for the money though minus some minor annoyances at times. When its freshly cleaned, I do sit up straighter in my seat...Its a Jag, hardly anyone has one! Fit for a queen, affordable (if you buy used) for everyone.

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  Instant classic - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By karl - November 13 - 2:43 am

  Well this is my first jag, if you are a car person then this is a really cool car. There are better cars out there for sure, not that much better. I purchased the sportwagon version. I wanted utility and sportiness, and it is a rare car for sure. I looked at BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Jag. of course. I like the fact that jags not going to be outdated by newer models and it has the classic styling of older jags(hood ornament). I believe it will be a sleeper classic in wagon form only though. It could get better gas mileage but IT is a Jag not a Honda. I think in ten years gas cars as the way we know them wont exist and this will be still a Jaguar not a prius. My 2 cents.