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:

• 

  Awesome!!! - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By d12watch - March 16 - 10:00 am

  Just bought this car. Loving every minute of it. Its a joy to behold. A bargin at $10K less than similarly equipped BMW 330xi.

• 

  Nice ride - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By hans song - March 8 - 12:16 am

  The vehicle is a great looking and bears a great name, yet does not drive in that manner. I love the stylish interior and exterior. The reliablity is somewhat of an issue.

• 

  Lemon to Lime - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By Marybeth - February 17 - 4:20 pm

  I have had 2 X Types. My first one was an actual lemon, and Jag gave me a new one. This one also drops gears at 35- 40mph and has a heavy steering wheel shimmy, as the "Lemon" did. It is performing about 50% better. Jag has been good about fixing things thus far, lets see how fast I sell it once it hits its 30K mark. Do I like Jags, yes.. mostly a smooth ride, and I like the look. Could it perform better and get better mileage, you bet.

• 

  X-Type Jaguar Meets Expectations - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Pete E. Cammarata - February 17 - 4:53 am

  Rides like a dream. Brakes are excellent. Corners great. I have the small engine,(2.5)so I didnt expect spectacular 0-60 stats. Navigation system works superbly. Really happy with the Baby-J.

• 

  Fun and Style - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Cancunense - February 16 - 12:46 pm

  Lets face it...! the type of car you drive reflects who you are. There is no way to have more fun and style than driving a gorgeous Jaguar... at least at this price range :) Love the way it sounds and the fast response from a 3.0 brisk engine. Interior is well balanced with leather and wood trimmings.

• 

  X-TYPE BEST SERIES BETWEEN BMW,BENZ - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By MARCO PIMENTEL - February 15 - 2:00 am

  ITS THE BEST CAR FOR THE PRICE.

• 

  Nice VDP - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By Todd - February 10 - 4:53 pm

  Purchased an elite VDP 3.0 with decked out rims, etc. Happy with car overall. Hit deer going 40 mph and car held up to impact surprisingly well - only cosmetic damage. Very sturdy car (had Volvo previously) - feel safe. Some transmission issues already. Fails to up/downshift causing annoying jerking to ride. Trans seems to slip. Premium stereo could be better. Would like more interior space - need to adjust seats for different size guests depending where they sit. Larger sun visors would be nice. Dont like the center armrest much.

• 

  Keeps on "Truckin" - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By pandahenry - February 2 - 7:24 am

  This is the Wifes "Dog and plant hauler" It is just a bit past 77k mi. and still works fine., in fact on the highway, the fuel economy is an amazing 27-28 mpg! The ride has deteriorated" in part to recent tire purchase ( TOO high performance) In the 9 years we have owned= only 4 problems.. #1.a brake boost seal (replaced under warranty.) #2. expensive performance components like the Special F Brake discs. #3 Passenger seat-seat belt buckle malfunction..= new and VERY expensive female seat belt clasp #4 the led light that allows view of temperature numbers is out and cannot be repaired easily I see many of these vehicles still on the road here in Coastal Southern California I know that this car is fast "like a Jaguar".....it is fun to drive "like a Jaguar" it has unique style and grace,"like a Jaguar We are glad that Jaguar has re-introduced the SportBrake " (as they call it in England) We wanted to order a new Sportbrake, however,we are looking at the F-pace because this Sportbrake-Wagon rides low to the ground and a few inches of taller ride would help us navigate the gauntlet of distracted drivers in Coastal Socal We might be selling soon

• 

  First Class Luxury Car - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Alan - February 2 - 1:40 am

  This car is outstanding. All wheel drive, luxury and a beautiful body. Handles great, gets 26 mpg, has enough power to be interesting. If youre looking for a good looking sporty luxury cruiser, that wont be confused with some other car, this is the one. If you want a pocket rocket that looks more common, look at the others.

• 

  Dont be misled by reviews - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By hatipa - January 29 - 2:00 am

  We were looking for an affordable sporty sedan a la Infiniti G35, Audi A4, Cadillac CTS etc. and were actually not planning to test drive the Jaguar given the mixed reviews regarding the early 2002 models. However, my wife pushed for a test ride; we were surpised to find ourselves hooked. The car handles very well. The 2.5 is plenty sufficient to keep things interesting. While maybe not as fast as the G35, the car is lots of fun to drive and has character. With the free service and our deal price of $28,000 for a base model/manual, the value is high. 1k on the car to date.