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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  LOVE IT! - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By trevorlee - January 18 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. I drive a lot. I use to worry about the snow. NOW, I love driving in the snow. The all wheel drive and comfortav=ble cabin makes this car my favorite so far. It does get bit tight in the rear seats though. But that is the only con so far.

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  lrjgjag - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By lrjg - January 13 - 10:00 am

  We have been totally pleased with our Jaguar X 3.0. We use to drive a loaded minivan and havent missed it for a second. It has a very comfortable ride with as much power as you will ever need off the race track.

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  Pleasant Driving - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Matshum - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I found the Jaguar X 3.0 to be comfortable, fast, and easy to drive. Exceptional power and I like the all wheel drive.

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  X-Type I would buy again - 2008 Jaguar X-Type
  By Roger - January 1 - 12:43 am

  For an AWD car, this cannot be beat. It is powerful, handles great and is comfortable. I can even get a 2" x 4" home inside. No other car in its class comes close. I live in S. Florida where it rains like hurricanes. One day, I notice power transferring to another wheel while flying down the highway in a downpour. The X-type tracked straight and true in a blinding rain. Moments later, I saw a car which had hyroplaned off into a canal. What car will I buy next? One that has luxury features, AWD, 225 hp and an unsurpassed service program; all for the low $30,000s. There is only one such car. The X-type. A fantastic, fabulous car that has no comparable.

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  Great Car - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Union Jack - December 30 - 2:00 am

  GREAT CAR GREAT PRICE BUT WOULD BE HESITANT TO PURCHASE AT END OF LEASE DUE TO UNKNOWN FUTURE RELIABILTIY

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  This Jag is Sassy - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By SJLEE - December 30 - 2:00 am

  I love this entry level Jaguar. It goes!! I cant believe that there are bad reviews about this vehicle. I would like to read them . I will say that very large people would fine it small for them inside. I like the sporty fit.

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  Jags got it RIGHT!! - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By William Shepherd - December 26 - 4:13 am

  I bought this car for my wife and she loves it. I had reservations due to the negative Jaguar mechanical image it had in the past but let me tell you that this Jag is awesome! The all wheel drive is incredible. The power in the V6 3.0 will put you in your seat. We now love it.

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  Life Long Buick Man - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Life long Buick Man - December 25 - 7:23 pm

  After toying for many years with the idea of "upgrading", I couldnt get excited about anything but a Jaguar. The interior is soothingly comfortable and the exterior is exciting. This car is the smoothest, quietest car Ive ever owned and the 2.5 motor will have me collecting speeding tickets if Im not careful. I get 26 mpg around town and still look for opportunities to just get out and drive. Im 6-2 but the interior fits me fine. I love the looks and comments I get and that it looks more expensive then it is. I cant imagine ever needing more then this - "Baby Jag" delivers!

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  Jag X Type-Move over BMW - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By TJ2003 - December 19 - 10:00 am

  If youre considering purchasing a MW series or an Audi A4 you owe to yourself to look into the Jaguar X Type. The sytle and smoooth ride of this baby is heads above the rest and all for a little over $30K. AWD is standatrd in this vehicle and cat be beat. It handles superbly and corners better than my Cobra.

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  AWOL Performance - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Dave in Texas - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Although the 2.5 X-Type doesnt jump off the starting line, it makes up for it in comfort, style and affordability. The X-Type is much more comfortable that my 99 Cadillac Catera and a lot more stylish but just not as zippy. The Sport mode helps some as does the J-Shift automatic transmission. All in all, this entry-level Jaguar is a great buy. Routine maintenance coverage is an unexpected bonus.