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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  it needs a little work - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By billgerry - May 18 - 12:30 pm

  The X is a truly fabulous car to drive. It handles curves like a champ, and at 120 mph, it still has power to spare. It was annoying to have the transmission replaced at 20k - with 5 others in the shop ahead of mine. Cheap plastic items, like gas cap covers break easily, and a number of electronic problems, like sunroof controls, keep cropping up, requiring the inconvenience of shop visits.

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  X Type positive - 2007 Jaguar X-Type
  By fongo - May 16 - 8:36 pm

  Driving this car down the highway makes by blood type go X positive all the way! I just picked it up a few weeks ago and I love it. Very smooth riding & superb luxury. Great power & mileage. Its AWD makes the car hug the road and makes you feel safe.

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  Great Car - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Hawthorne - May 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car back in March and am completely satisfied with this vehicle. To have a car of this class for the near giveaway price is something to speak of.

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  04 jag x-type - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By oechsli - May 6 - 2:50 am

  Worst car I ever bought. Rides like a tin can. So many little problems- with lights, sunroof, stereo, wipers,etc. Passenger seat difficult to recline- not power. Wouldnt recommend this car to anyone!

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  This is a nice car - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By jaguarloveit - April 25 - 10:00 am

  I really like my car, it runs very smooth and is easy to drive. Feel very safe on the road

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  Second day thoughts.... - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By john_thomas - April 25 - 10:00 am

  I picked up my car from the dealership last night. This is a beautiful looking car (white exterior, beige leather interior). At first I had a bit of trouble getting the car to go in reverse. The sales manager failed to mention that you have to lift a small ring on the shifter before you put it in reverse. I found that out while reading the manual later that evening. When I drove my daughter to school this morning I was able to back up with no problem at all. Now that I know what Im doing Im very happy with the car. So far it looks and rides like a dream. ...I will update these comments in the weeks ahead as I put miles on this baby....so far so good....

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  Jaguar--Never again - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By ALEX - April 25 - 10:00 am

  I had to trade it in for a Lexus after it had spent almost a month out of 12 month in service department. (transmission failed, electronics, engine failed).

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  2005 X-TYPE 3.0 VDP Edition - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By Nice Jag - April 17 - 9:13 am

  Nice comfortable ride. Love the interior leather and the exterior styling on my VDP edition. Decent acceleration but not mind blowing off the line. I expect the manual would be a bit more fun. Roomy in the front and the back seat is par for the course. Nice build quality and has a large trunk. Alpine stereo is ok but the bass needs a little more depth at least for my ears. Seem to be getting 20.9 mpg but I have a heavy foot. AWD is nice -corners ok but does feel a little loose at higher speeds but hey this isnt a sports car. The local Jag service department seems very helpful. I am really enjoying this car and getting a lot of compliments on the interior and exterior styling!

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  JAGUAR...ITS VEGAS BABY!!! - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By OmiyaLove - April 9 - 10:00 am

  It was love at first sight! Then we test drove our Jaguar X-Type and what a pleasure it was! We choose the 5-speed and what a job it does, especially on tight curves, Jag hugs them tightly and smoothly. From the sleek lines of the Jag body, to the 7 layer Platinum paint job with the black leather interior this vehicle is lustrous and smooth, glide your fingers over the paint job...its like butter!

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  My Second X-Type - Amazing Car! - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By Lisa D - March 27 - 8:36 pm

  This vehicle is vastly underrated. I was determined to find a "different" luxury car this time around, but no other could compare in style and performance. If you remember the X-Type commercial where the snow plow follows in the Jaguars tracks, I can sincerely guarantee that this is the handling this car delivers. I am even more impressed with my new VDP Edition. The exterior styling turns heads and the interior is simply beautiful. A recent visit to the car wash reinforced the image of this car - even among the other top luxury cars, this car truly shines the brightest.