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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Classic look cars - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By RICH HART - October 1 - 2:00 amI think my car handles very well has plenty of spunk and has the look of a classic car. Also not too bad on fuel.
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I love it! - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By Robins - September 29 - 3:03 amWhere else can you find a prestige vehicle with more class than a BMW, a fun 5 speed and AWD? Those who criticize the are certainly not drivers. This car is fun to push! The AWD is great in the rain and aids in acceleration. I negotiated a very low purchase price I recommend this car to all who enjoy driving!
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Jag, baby, yea!!!..This cat roars! - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By TAS - September 18 - 2:00 amI always wanted to own a Jag and it has been a dream come true. I test drove the 3 series BMW, and Audi 4, Mercedes C320 basically all the models in the price range and the interior was nothing to compare against the Jag.The car is excellent. I guess you can always be unlucky and get a lemon with any make of car, like some of the reviews here have been. Well worth checking this car out if you are buying a car in the 29k to 35k dollar range.Everyone will think you purchased a $50k plus car. Let them!!
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Mechanically a disgrace! - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By Richard Bobo - September 16 - 1:16 amI have owned this car for 7 months. It went back to the shop under warranty 5 times in less than two months. The transmission still shifts ruff after having the control module reset twice. I have had to replace the drive shaft at an expense of $883.00 and now I have to have the power steering hose replaced at a cost of $489.00. The warranty ran out last month and these expenses have been incurred within less than a month of that!!!! What a piece of junk!!!! Oh I forgot that the vent covers on top of the dash pop up when the temp outside changes and I finally supper glued them down. I will not buy another.
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A SOLID RELIABLE CAT - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By str8cash - August 29 - 11:11 pmI have owned this x-type for 3 years and I bought it with 125,000 miles on it. I am the 2nd owner.It now has 160,000+ miles and still runs & looks like new. Only things I have had to do is oil changes and a new coolant tank ($129.00 ebay). This car was very well maintained by the original owner and that is key. She had all maint records and only major repair was new rear struts. Other items were normal wear items, brake pads, oil changes,tune up, coolant flush, tires, battery,etc. I have owned several Lexus, BMW, Infiniti, Acura, Cadillac, Mercedes vehicles and this is my favorite. AWD is fantastic. Car is now 10 yrs old & still gets looks. I would recommend this car without question.
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Understated, Elegant & Reliable - 2007 Jaguar X-Type
By markle1 - August 27 - 11:05 pmYou get all the luxury without a BMW or Mercedes price tag. Bought it with 70K miles and put a little TLC into it (brakes, oil, air) and have had no problems for the last 10K miles. This Jag loves the open road. Rides straight, quiet and comfortable. Put it in cruise control and drive from San Diego to Phoenix with 100% ease and peace of mind.
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X Type surprise - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By TDD - August 18 - 10:00 amThe x-type holds the road beautifully. You can corner at high rates of speed without a problem. Ive never experienced engine braking like this car. The only real negative is that the 2.5 L is fairly sluggish in traffic. It could definetely use more pep. the gas mileage is around 21 mpg. Not bad.
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reliability DOG - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By unhappy jag - August 14 - 10:00 amCertified used purchase, 16000.00 miles. Since then in the shop 5 times. Completely unreliable car. would discourage anyone prom purchasing. Also would not recommend Toyota Volvo Jagarf Warren, Ohio.
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Its a real Jaguar! - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By C.B. Hoffman - August 9 - 10:00 amFor those who have dreamed about owning a Jaguar but found it out their reach, the 2.5L x -type is the right place to start. I found road handling excellent, and the car responds well, both on curves and on the straightaway. The AWD is really good in the snow. The five speed transmission handles well, but drivers should remember that the clutch-gas-clutch-gas syndrome in heavy traffic takes some getting used to. But the best thing about the Jaguar is what is what has been its trademark since the beginning: Its beautiful. Mine is British racing green, and people actually stop and stare at the car, both in traffic and when its parked.
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Good, but not Fantastic - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By jaguar Man in L.A. - July 20 - 10:00 amThe X-type looks great inside and out. To me it looks like a mini XJ. There are several items that I would like to point out to potential buyers. I have the 3.0 Liter but it is weak with hardly any torque. Gas mileage is horrible. Much less than the sticker says. I drive about 1/2 city 1/2 highway, and average only 17 MPG. Also, the car has alot of rattles, and the springs are very squeeky. The car rides very harsh, especially on dips or rough roads. Overall a decent car, but the lack of build quality really shows.
