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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X-Type review by a Brit - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By Barryl - December 17 - 2:00 amI bought the X-Type for my own 50th Birthday! So far I have covered just less than 1000 miles, so it is admittedly a little early to say, but the car has been faultless, both on delivery and in use. Mine is a manual Sport - I didnt want the auto on this car. The car is much quieter than I expected and very refined, such that now I tend to listen to classical music! Lots of extras made the car rather expensive - these are mainly individual in the UK, not big option packs as in the States. Would definitely recommend the reverse-park sensor which I have, as rearward visibility is not too good. Standard headlights are quite good, but I wish now Id bought the Xenon option.
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Do Not Let The Review Fool You - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By msiseng - December 12 - 2:00 amBravo to Ford for resurrecting this line of vehicle. Do not let the reviews fool you; this is a nice car for the money. The 2.5 is quick enough and very nimble. In fact, the 3.0 does not feel that much quicker. The dual exhaust (Y-Pipe) is a nice surprise for the 03 model year producing more torque at higher speeds. Jaguar service is superb and is welcome after SUFFERING through VOB Nissan in Rockville, MD service for years. Free maintenance is what finally swung my decision to lease this car. The Jaguar loyalty program and road-side assistance are also very nice.
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The Editors Dont Get It - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By Noel cab - December 7 - 10:00 amExcellent all around vehicle. Will outclass, outrun, outperform the German cars in its class in any road condition, any weather. I know. I have two other German marques that are useless with the slight pour of rain or snow. Not for the masses. Purrfect car for the Northeast. I really dont care what editors say. Excellent dealer service too.
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A real road hugger - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By w.taylor - December 1 - 10:00 amLove the way the car handled a close call on snow and ice. Saved me!
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DONT BELIEVE - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By PLEASE READ THIS!!!! - November 17 - 10:00 amI was shocked to read the review entitled, "Do you like your wallet? By Style, not substance." Anyone who knows their Jags knows that Ford bought Jaguar around 1985, and ever since that, the cars have been extremely reliable. Therefore, I do not understand their "but the reliability on long commutes would worry me a great deal." Also, they say BMW is a much better choice, which is by opinion only. For anyone considering this car, or just bought it, you chose wisely. I am very pleased; my last car was an XJ Vanden Plas Sedan. This car is much more entertaining to drive, and not too "starched." Nevertheless, this is a JAGUAR.
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"She saved my life" - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By specialT - November 13 - 3:26 pmDont believe the critics. This baby was the safest, smartest, high performance car that just "growled" to be driven. Had her for a total of 6 yrs goin on 7. May have lost her for good b/c she took the tree; not me. Had her out in the snow 1st and only time,hit ice, hit tree. Sprained left hand, bump and bruise on rt knee. Airbag deployed, but no other bruises etc. hit head on, missed the jag on hood, headlights in tact. Radiator pushed in, motor to be assessed. ALOT of safety features deployed. Yet to have the adjuster take a look. 12-31- 09 so its been 10 days. Well know when we get the hood up. Either way, this girl was the best car I ever had (have). She wont even turn over.
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Great design. Quality needs improvement - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By Junaid Q - November 13 - 2:00 amLove the design. Great nav. Uncomfortable seats. Small problems here and there. Fuel caps doesnt open sometimes. CD changes has stoped working. I only have 27000 miles and I have experienced 5 problems so far. Still fun to drive but fun to own. Will I buy it again...Nope.
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Great pre-owned car for the modest price - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By TDUBYA - November 9 - 4:13 pmThe Jaguar X-type 3.0 Sport is an excellent vehicle. Good gas mileage great entry level comfort and a very sexy appearance that could only come from Jaguar. Incredible pre-owned value for all those whove always wanted to own a Jag but couldnt fit it into their budget. The key to owning a reliable, pleasurable, fun to drive, X-type is to purchase a pre-owned one that is still under factory warranty, take it directly to your local Jag dealership, and have the maintenance department verify or carry out all the service bulletin upgrades, recalls and repairs which will be free of charge. After all services and repairs are complete take you vehicle home drive it and enjoy.
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Underappreciated gem of a car! - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
By aluni@DC - October 18 - 7:00 pmCame down to this and a 2007 Mercedes C Class 280 4 matric. I picked the X- Type for a more stylish exterior styling and more interior space. The Mercedes had slightly better drivability and slightly better interior build quality. But the overall styling of the X-type and the super low miles (10K on the X Type v. 39K on the C280) won me over. Both cars handled well and the engines seemed very comparable. I really like how smoothly the Jaguar drives and how comfortable the seats are. The interior space is excellent on this. I have absolutely no regrets about my decision. The overall quality on this car seems solid.
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The grin still hasent left my face! - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
By Tedd - October 1 - 5:30 pmWhat a great car! I just finished driving the X type from Kansas City to L.A. I ventured off the interstate often and hit some great winding mountain road (pine to palms hwy) and even went off road into (yes, into!) the grand canyon on a gravel road/creek bed! Went from rain and snow (in Flagstaff) to desert heat. The car was loaded down to the hilt, driven hard, thrown into corners, cruised at high speed, and every component performed perfectly! (except the rearview mirror vibrated out of position on the rough gravel road leading into the grand canyon) I never had a more fun drive! BMW should be worried!
