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:
Showing 41 through 50 of 650.00-
Great Entry Into Luxury Sport - 4Dr - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By DHarrod - May 18 - 10:00 amThe first year had a separate Sprt Model which added the needed wheels & trim - including sport seats. We love ours - Great Sytle with distinctive Jag look. We love the Sport Seats which fit my wife best (its her car and she loves it). Decent pickup and go with a nice Jag/sport growl to the motor. The car is set for moderate/strong play. Looked at BMW, Lexus, Audi, Saab, Infiniti G35 prior to buying - Carmax made us a good deal - much less than the others. We drive it hard in the Carolinas and have no issues.
-
My second Jag - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
By Muggsc - May 9 - 2:10 pmMy first JAG was an XJ8, I really wanted an S-Model, however I did not like the grill. I also think the interior of the X-type is just as nice as the S-type, except for the steering wheel, which I have ordered the wood grain finished one from the dealer. The only thing that I dont like is that the rear seating leg area is too short. Overall the car is as sweet as they get.
-
Jaaaaaag Wagon - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
By Lymeboy - May 7 - 11:30 pmI have driven mostly BMWs for the past 20 years. I purchased this 05 Jaguar Sportwagon in July 07 and I am delighted with the design, build quality, aesthetics, and driving dynamics. It can not be compared to BMW, MB, Audi, etc., as it is British, not German. The wagon is elegant inside and out, it is comfortable for a guy with back problems. I have only seen one other Jag Wagon in the state of Maine---I do not see myself coming and going.
-
Best Entry Lux around - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By RJP81101 - April 29 - 10:00 amJust traded in my 2.5 for the 3.0. The 2.5 was fine, but I wanted more power and speed. The 3.0 has plenty. Also, the X-Type in general is the best handling car on the road. During a very snowy winter this past year, I did not lose traction at all. It is also the best looking car on the road, in my biased opinion!
-
Made me buy an XJ8 also! - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
By cali34652 - April 29 - 10:00 amThe lines of this car make my heart palpitate, and the Phoenix red makes it one of the sexiest sedans on the road. Took a demo home for the weekend, went out to dinner that evening, as we waited to be seated everyone in the restaurant was talking about the bright red Jag in the parking lot. Two weeks later I picked up my "arrest me red" kitty. I have yet to have a problem with the X! Now for the bad, Jag service is abysmal. I own two Jags, have had problems with my 2000 XJ8, if you have a problem, expect to get to KNOW your service advisor.
-
We love our Jag - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By Al in NC - April 15 - 10:00 amNicest car we have ever owned. Dealer is great. Love the power and handling of the 3 liter, 5 speed. Seats very comfortable (I have lower back problems and can ride long periods in comfort). Ours is Phoenix red- get lots of looks and compliments. Test drove BMW 3 and 5 series, Volvo s60 and Jag was best. Exterior and interior are beatiful. Birds eye maple dash, sunroof and stereo controls on steering wheel are great. Love to see occasional poor reviews-keep this jewel a secret and not see a Jag at every light-like a BMW.
-
Love my X-Type. - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By X-Type Owner - April 15 - 10:00 amBeautiful paint job. Fantastic steering. Great gearbox. The all-wheel drive system is fabulous - goes like hell in the rain and snow.
-
GREAT - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
By best car ive driven - April 10 - 2:00 ami absolutely love my new jag. its got everything i want in a luxury car. I had a BMW 5 series but i bought it for over $45,000. This jag was only $35,000 and its got so much more.
-
Love the Leaper! - 2006 Jaguar X-Type
By Kevin Kiper - April 8 - 10:16 pmUnbelievable car. Found it new at the dealer. Its been even better than I expected. Makes even driving around the block fun. And, the car is a total head turner. Very distinctive when compared to all the BMWs, Mercedes and Lexi on the road. I get tons of compliments on the car.
-
Forget about everything you ever knew... - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
By KarlJohnson - March 31 - 10:00 amThis car is tremendous and leaves everything that Ive ever thought about Jaguar quality at the door. Ill keep everyone posted but the last 4,000 miles have been exiting and the car handles like a dream. This is AWD and you will not find that in any car in its class (for this price). The car has a terrific sound system and the Nav system is awesome. I actually look forward to driving in it as the same day it was purchased. You owe it to yourself to at least test drive one!
