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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  Cup holders only problem - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Margi - January 20 - 10:00 am

  One cup holder is not enough for the driver and a passenger. Everything else is wonderful. I love the double takes when I drive it.

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  Jaguar X Type - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Hnoetzli - January 20 - 10:00 am

  Excellent drving behavior and lots of fun to drive

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  My Jag - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By stanny - January 19 - 6:33 am

  After driving a mercedes for 7 years and RX7s for 11 years I switched to the Jag. I could not be happier, it drives like a sports coupe, but still has a safe backseat for my 7 yr old daughter.

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  The rat has a cat - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Mr. Ratman - December 30 - 10:00 am

  After falling in love with this car at the auto show back in February I spent all year convincing myself I needed to buy one. With a 191,000 miles on my 10 yr old Park Ave, I figured its only a matter of time before it died. Taking advantage of year end close out sales I found myself a 2.5 sport package in British Racing Green. What a beautiful car! I bought the car thinking I would still drive the Buick until its death. I now have almost 6,000 miles on the Jag and spend no time in the Buick.

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  A good decision - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By Tom Moore - December 30 - 6:53 am

  Ive owned Mercedes & Lexus. The Jaguar is the best yet and they are not as common as the others. The AWD Jag performs on ice and snow just as good as the AWD Lexus. To date, Im very pleased and believe I made the right choice.

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  2002 Jaguar X-type sport - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By dunjo1 - December 23 - 9:46 pm

  Excellent auto! Reliable & great performance!

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  Convert - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By Geechee - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Went in to buy my 3rd Infiniti, my folks and brother also have Infinitis. Heart set on the new little rocket, G35. After almost a 10 year relationship with local dealer, I was told no deals and the car would have $1000 tacked on. Thought about the I35. On my way home I pulled into the Jag dealer looking for a pre-owned Jag. Drove out in a 03 X-Type. With the premium pkg, DSC, and Alpine, it was LESS than the offer on the G35. Though the X is not the fastest off the line, it passes without fail. Solid feel, quality feel, and looks that draw admirers. What a value!

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  Very Pleased With 2004 X-Type - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By lmdave - December 13 - 5:05 am

  I purchased the car new in August 2004 for my wife. She and I both love it. We also had a 1989 XJ6 at the time, and knew Jaguars spotty reputation for reliability was for real with the XJ6. Not so for the X-type...it has had less problems than any other automobile I have ever owned. Only mistake I made was buying an extended warranty; all other cars I have done this with, this has paid off, but not for the X-Type..which has been nearly trouble free for the entire extended warranty period. I highly recommend this car. We always use Shell premium gas; makes a difference in engine running smoothly.

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  great car - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Jim - December 7 - 7:20 pm

  We didnt find the color or equipment we wanted at the dealer so he found one for us and actually, gave us a better deal on the one we now have than the ones he had on the lot. We have every option except dynamic stability control. It has proven to be quite a vehicle. While I hear the BMWs and Acuras are better buys, the Jaguar has a "je ne sais quoi" that the others dont and, there is an exclusivity about owning one. We have had no problems after almost 12,000 miles and it still has that like new feeling. Fun to drive, a real head turner and overall we are quite happy with the car. The all wheel drive has proven itself both in the winter and on the windy mountain roads of SW PA.

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  A Great Feeling About Owning a Jag! - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
  By Donald Jaeger - December 7 - 5:23 am

  This is my 1st Jag and I must admit that this is a great driving auto and fun car to drive. I drove many other competetive autos prior to selecting the Jaguar, but this one really drove and handled the best. Ive owned many new cars, such as C230 Mercedes, Acura RL, numerous Honda Accords and a few Cadillacs, but this is, by far, the best car yet. I love to drive it and I also love the head turns I get from this vehicle. Keep up the good work Jaguar and you will have a customer for a long time.