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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Cats, Bimmers and Subies 70K Update - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By KKear - July 1 - 6:23 amI bought it out of the lease only because it was the cheapest way to go. The tire wear was somewhat solved by using Fuzion HRi tires, good for about 30K miles. The headlights bulbs by going to GE silverstars, and the dash vents, superglue. Now the shocks all need replacement, and its a good thing this car is mostly Ford because most anyone can work on it. The dealer wants an arm, leg and one or two other appendages to replace them. I will be wary of buying another Jaguar.
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Good buy - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By iacole - June 25 - 10:00 amExcellent handling and looks. Like the engine and tires. Would have liked larger speakers. Dealer attention is excellent.
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WINNING FORMULA - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By MrBlonde - June 21 - 2:00 amAmazing handling, very satisfying accelaration, high quality interior and gorgeous design. Definitely get a hell of a lot of attention driving this car. I was instantly sold.
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ALOT OF WOW FOR A LITTLE CASH! - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By mrrealestate2000 - June 21 - 2:00 amI have now owned my Jag for over a year and am satisfied with my decision. Ive owned Acura, BMW and Mercedes. This is my first Jag and Im a convert. Ive had no problems with the exception of a seal on the washer fluid jet that would allow fluid to seep out when I exceeded 65 mph. Dealer fixed it with no problems. I had my last Benz in the shop all the time. Turns more heads that a Benz or Bimmer. I wish the gas milage was better but considering it is AWD its better than any SUV and it will take me any where I need to go. 2003 models lowered the base price. It a bargin for its class. I definitely recommend this car.
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My 2nd X type - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
By sharon - June 14 - 8:50 pmThis is my 2nd x-type. My other one is a 2002 Platinum sport... love it! Only a few simple problems such a a malfunctioning trunk lock and some recall service... all covered under warranty plus the dealer provided a free Jaguar rental car. My new car is just a beautiful and I am leasing for a similar price to my 2002 model! Glad I did not have to downsize! The best feature is the AWD! I live in WI and we get bad snow and ice... this cars wheels NEVER spin! Grips the road! Love it!
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Amazing - get a 2005 or newer! - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
By Jag - June 6 - 6:53 pmLove the car, I researched the car before purchase, saw that 2001-03 had some problems, Jaguars Quality Initiative 04 put over 1000 new components in this car. My 2005 is awesome. Great driving experience, curves and hills are my favorite, AWD will be a blessing this winter. Luxury interior leaves you feeling like and people thinking that you paid a fortune for this car.
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OK but Reliability Issues a Concern - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By Peter C. - June 4 - 8:50 pmI did tons of research when I purchased this car. Bought for ridiculously cheap price. All and all drives nice, on par with other entry level luxury vehicles. Many issues have popped up including replacement of propshaft, faulty seat heater, grinding noise when braking, faulty sunroof (had to be fixed twice). For price I paid, and magnitude of repairs (small but annoying) I am not unhappy but if I had to do it again, I would probably have purchased the Volvo S-60 instead.
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Consumer Rating - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
By Rich - June 3 - 7:16 pmExcellent quality, workmanship and reliability. A real quality vehicle.
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love that jag 3.0 - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By joneejag - May 24 - 2:00 amwe were trying to decide between the lexus 330 acura tl and the jag x all have there own best qualities.. but when it came down to it the best deal for the money it was the jag. it has the look and feel of a sports car with plush of the big $ cars it is really fun to drive with the growl and that leaper its a blast.
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Fast cat - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By jkd - May 18 - 10:00 amWhat a fun ride! The cars suspension is so smooth, it almost feels as if I am riding on air! It corners tight, not much play in the wheel, and has great acceleration. The interior is luxurious yet sporty and the sound system is excellent. Ive driven this car long distances, back and forth from Ohio to Florida several times, and found it to be super on gas - between 29 and 32 mph, of course I use nothing but premium, but its worth it. Did I mention the design? Its lines are gorgeous... Im in love with my car! Oooh......
