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:

• 

  A nice car that I love to keep - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Hank - July 4 - 5:30 am

  This car has meant several things to me: Nice looks, decent power (3 liter), all wheel drive (AWD) versatility and of course, the Jaguar brand name. It feels great when friends and strangers recognize the brand and make positive comments about its looks. This is my 5th year of ownership and I still like its looks and feel. I liked it so much I decided to not trade it in when I recently bought a new car. The 3 liter engine feels strong and satisfying in most situations although the automatic transmission loses a second or two when downshifting in sudden acceleration. It makes up for this in smooth operation when needing to pass. Last but not least, the AWD feature has been great in snow/ice.

• 

  wife loves her new x-type - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By mikesail - July 3 - 10:00 am

  We picked up the x-type from the dealer about a month ago and currently have 2000 miles on it. My wife has never enjoyed driving so much, the car is just plain fun! Everything works the way it is supposed to, nothing to complain about. We live in a rural hilly area and the 2.5 with automatic has plenty of power to handle it. Cant wait for the winter to see how the AWD does. With the factory and dealer discounts on this car it feels like an incredible bargain.

• 

  Glad Its Mine! - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By LoopyKC - June 25 - 10:00 am

  After a reveiw of Audi a4, VW Passat, Infiniti G35(horrible dealer experience) , Acura TL Type S,Volvo s60 and Lexus IS 300. The JAG was a more complete package with a more elegant persona that fit my wants.

• 

  Do you like your wallet? - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Style, not substance - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Then look elsewhere. Jaguar entices people with a low initial MSRP, but add anything that you feel a Jaguar should have and your in the high 30s. Interior is beautiful, probably finest in class. 2.5 engine is lacking but not abysmal. Ride is pleasant. Even if your budget allows for a fully loaded car, youre better off with a German nameplate if such things appeal to you, which it does just about everyone. I understand how the style convinces the buyer, but the reliability on long commutes would worry me a great deal. BMW does a much better job with value and quality. Just my impression based on extensive research and test drive.

• 

  First 3 months - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By kencomis - June 20 - 2:00 am

  excellent handling and ride. Stylish and confortable.standard equipment, warranty and roadside assist package good, leaving few optional items needed. Overall good car for the money.

• 

  Favorite car in 20 years of driving - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By mancini - June 15 - 10:00 am

  This car is class and also reliable. I have had no problem and tend to drive it in different settings. You will definitly get your moneys worth by driving this sexy car. I have driven everything but nothing like this one. X type will be my next car again unless I hit the loterry than Ill by the big one or the S type.

• 

  A typical Ford - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Todd R. - June 10 - 10:00 am

  I am so unhappy with this car. It has had so many problems, I hate the fact of even getting in the car. The transmission went at 9,000 miles, the car has been at the dealer at least 7 times in one year. Thank goodness they offer a free loner car. I have had every color X type in my driveway The sad thing is they all seem to drive like my old ford tempo. Sad because they are a nice looking car. I am not usually one to complain, but I am going back to Acura when this lease is up.

• 

  First Jaguar - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Bryan - May 30 - 10:33 pm

  I am very happy with this car. I believe it offers a lot for the price and am glad I bought it. It is small, nimble and responsive enough to be fun to drive. Yet it is big enough to have room for four people. The fold down rear seat together with a decent sized trunk provide good luggage carrying capacity as well. The gas mileage is good especially in view of its performance. The all wheel drive has been a comfort in winter driving. I have had no mechanical or quality problems with it. All in all an excellent ownership experience.

• 

  An Exceptional Car - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By OldCEM - May 21 - 9:26 pm

  This car is Jags best keep secret. Its the best trip vehicle Ive ever owned. Its quick, corners well, and is extremely comfortable on trips. Build quality, fit and finish are second to none at its price point. Its standard AWD handles rain, snow, and ice with no drama at all. The car is heavy, and, seems to be built like a tank. The interior has standard leather seats, and the rest seems to be made of very high grade materials. I like the retro style of the exterior, and its a real head turner, This is my second X Type - I upgraded from a 2.5 liter model because I wanted the extra power. Both have been extremely reliable vehicles.

• 

  X-tremely Pleased - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Pete - May 15 - 5:36 pm

  Purchased used with 12,000 miles for about 1/2 original retail. The manual 5 spd. provides plenty of zip with the 2.5, and the AWD handles like a dream. By far the best feature is the exterior styling but a close second is the outstanding warranty Jag provides on certified used cars (bumper to bumper, 100k/6 years from original date of purchase). Finally, I enjoy not seeing dozens of other cars like mine (I see about a dozen BMW 3 series for each X-Type), and people think I spent a LOT more than I did! Someday, Ill graduate to an XK, but I hope to be a Jaguar owner for life.