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:

• 

  Better than led to believe - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Jag person - July 15 - 8:03 am

  After reading the negative on-line reviews from professionals, I held my breath after buying my Jaguar. Perhaps because of low expectations, I was and continue to be delighted by my driving and ownership experience. Im not sure who reviewers think is driving BMWs and Audis and Mercedes, but the average driver is going to get plenty of performance from an X-type. I am a driving enthusiast who drives cars hard. If I had any more speed or handling than my Jag provides, I would probably have a fistful of speeding tickets. I sincerely doubt that drivers of the other sports sedans use the difference in performance that I will admit is probably there. And as for cachet, just try to beat a Jaguar!

• 

  If only there was a money back guarantee - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By nopesa - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I bought the 3.0 Sport because it visually appealed to me and on test drive was smooth, fast and quiet. But after 2 months, the Sport package has proven too stiff, the gas mileage is worse than a SUV...consistently average 13-14 mpg. The drivers seat shakes. Buttons here and there squeak and the car just doesnt make itself a keeper. My old Lexus was light years smoother and more sophisticated than this Jag.

• 

  Looks like Ford, smells like a Ford... - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By ntstambo2 - July 1 - 1:43 am

  This car is joke. I have this car for a rental and I might as well bring it back for a Ford Contour because thats what this is. Its cheap inside, the engine is weak, and it hogs down gas. The interior is cheap and the controls are a jumbled mess. How can they calls this a Jaguar? Anyone that buys this car and thinks they have a Jaguar is just kidding themselves. Im embarrased to drive this and have people look at me and think its actually my car. The only thing this car has going for it are the cool looking headlights.

• 

  Jaguar x-type wagon - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By Kate Maanning - June 25 - 2:46 pm

  This is my third Jaguar; an S-type and an XJ8 preceded the wagon. My husband was concerned about this car being too small...we were off on a road trip to AZ and New Mex. and had everything from golf clubs to a loom for weaving to a large painting plus all of our bags etc....it all fit like a perfect puzzle. Mileage was great and it drives like a little sportscar..... GREAT FUN !!! Didnt fare too well with a collision with a deer (I stopped; she didnt) but that was fixable. We LOVE this car. Thanks for building it.

• 

  Why the Bad Rap? - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By Adam - June 23 - 4:06 pm

  I read all the reviews before buying my X-type and I was a little worried as most seemed to give the car a bad rap. After owning it for 8 months I have found only minor things I would change on the car. Most reviews said the car wasnt as sporty as the other small cars in its class. While that may be true not everyone is looking for a sports car. With the 230hp engine the Jag will get you anywhere you need to go plenty fast. If youre looking to blow the doors off other cars go buy a Mustang Cobra for the same price. For the rest of us who are just looking to ride around in style this car is perfect. Drives nice, looks sharp, and I havent had any issues yet.

• 

  Great Cat - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Frank K - June 17 - 12:53 am

  Great value. I know this is a Ford based car, but the value is great. The ride is firm and yet comfortable. Huge trunk. No issues, recalls and free maintenance!!

• 

  2002 X-Type 3.0 Sport - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By James - June 7 - 7:33 am

  I just purchased a 2002 X-Type 3.0 Sport and am grateful I did. I love driving this car! It has the firm, sports-car oriented driving style that I like in a car. I love driving this car far more than my 02 330i. The car is a head turner. Watch out though for possible electrical problems. I have already had a window regulator go out on the back window. Overall, I would buy this car again and again.

• 

  Outstanding Car - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By lydia - June 2 - 5:36 am

  This has been a truly outstanding vehicle. We have 22000 miles without a single problem other than the tires wearing out very prematurely. Service has been outstanding. Fantastic in snow.

• 

  Its Nice Being the New Kid on the Block - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Meow Mix - May 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought my X-Type 3.0 Sport 2/02 and had problems including driveshaft whining, leaky washers, and "rocking" seats. New vehicles regardless of manufacturer often have minor hiccups within the first couple thousand miles. What it boils down to is your local dealer and their service department. Mine fixed all problems quickly the first time. I would rather be driving a car that is different and in my opinion, more fun, than all those Audis and BMWs out there. Ive ridden in plenty A4s, S4s, A6s and 3 series, and although they are still "fun", the novelty just isnt there. BTW, my friend has burned 2 turbos on his S4 and anothers new A4 3.0 bounces like a pogo stick on the freeway.

• 

  New Jag Seems Great (so far) - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By JJL635 - May 30 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this new baby Jag the end of last month. So far, it seems to be quite satisfing. My only complaint is the sloppy transmission. I had a 1998 Jaguar XJ8 (the big 4-door model), and it had the dame tansmission problem. Overlooking that fact however, the car seems to drive and run beautifully. Last night, however, something rather strange occured. When I got in to the car, I wanted to put up the sunroof, and it was going all haywire...The part of the button to move it back wouldnt work, and the up part was all confused, moving back and fourth...today its working fine. Strange. Overall, though, a great effort from Jag.