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 my 05 X-type AWD - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By robert allen - November 3 - 2:03 am

  The only thing I dont like about my car is the mileage, but I knew that going in. The car drives like a sports car - quick off the line, responds easily and effortlessly, takes the corners like a champ! There is one annoyance - a sporadic rattle and bump from the steering column (I think) which the dealer cant figure out. Other than that, this car is a gem! And people ooh and ahh when then see it or I tell them I have a Jaguar.

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  X-Type 3.0 2003 Review - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By JDR - October 27 - 10:56 am

  Very pleased with this car. Purchased in 2006 in near immaculate condition. Ride, look, comfort are wonderful. The used price was amazing (with many extras from the dealership - shopping around and being prepared was very useful).

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  excellent car for the price - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By phamhuy - October 17 - 10:00 am

  for the price...you get all the lux and an awd...cant beat it. not to mention the name plate...if youre in to that sort of stuff.

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  I love my XTYPE Sport - 2005 Jaguar X-Type
  By Kechele27 - October 13 - 10:16 am

  It doesnt get better for the price. It is true that it is heavy and does not corner as well as a BMW or other sport car- but its not meant to. This car is for a comfortable ride, a luxurious ride, and it is the perfect size, has the perfect interior and is truly a headturner on the streets..plus...you dont see many on the road..always a plus- its not your regular civic or camry.

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  ALL-WHEEL DRIVE JAGUAR ! - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By 1STJAG - October 7 - 2:00 am

  ***** THIS IS THE PERFECT JAGUAR FOR SOMEONE LIVING IN THE NORTHEAST OR SNOW BELTS ***** All Wheel Drive is just awesome. Great control in first few snow storms. 2.5 6 cyl performs pretty much the way it should w/hp. This vehicle is equipped with all premium & sport packages. This loads the JAG right up. No squeeks or rattles. Fit & finish is great. Trunk is usable especially with folding rear seats. Leather heated seats are superb. Automatic transmission shifts smooth. Traction/stability control adds to vehicle alot. I would highly recommend. Great road feel. This JAG performs for the money.

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  You have to get one - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By Jaguar 2.5 - October 3 - 2:00 am

  The only thing that i will say that takes time to get use to is the brakes, the gas pedal, and the transmission. The brakes take time to get use to because in a way you kinda have to push harder than you think to get stoped where you want to. The gas pedal takes time to get use to because it is very light and touchy, and very responsive. The Transmission takes time to get use to because when you first start driveing when the engine is still cold it seams like the engine is doing alot of shifting, and it you can feel the shifting, but as soon as the engine is warmed up the Jag ride AWSOME!!!!

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  The Swayzee Review. - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By scott swayzee - September 27 - 10:00 am

  my wife and I have so far enjoyed the vehicle. There are some things we would like to bring up. Tires are not up to the jaguar standard (in my book) the continetal tires should be replaced with pirellis. Seems to have a lot more road noise than it should, tires might help. We also have had serveral rattles within the interior. It seems to be a little pricey for an entry level car. I have also drove the entry level acura. It seems to offer a little more for the money. It also is a lot more quite on the road than the jag. We do enjoy the level of service once the vehicle goes to the dealer for any type of service. Please look into these metioned items.

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  Less than a month - 2003 Jaguar X-Type
  By G Pharzd - September 27 - 10:00 am

  In less than a month (900 miles) the rear end and tranmission have developed leaks so bad the car is no longer drivable. Also the braking system isnt right. When at a light the pedal will go down by itself. The battery box cannot be openned without hitting a vaccum line clip. The cars design is poor at best, but the way it is assembled is worse. I have been buying new cars for over 35 years and this is probably the worst car I have bought. The dealer gives you roses, but after that it is a downhill experience. Ford bought Jaguar and that should say it all.

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  X-Type is "All that AND more" - 2002 Jaguar X-Type
  By TommyE - September 22 - 7:06 am

  Havent had mine too long but love it completely. It replaces a 18 year old Acura. Gets better mileage (avg. 21 city) is absolutely stunning to look at and turns heads everywhere I go. This isnt just an automobile, its rolling artwork. When I showed it to my friends the most heard thing they say is, "Oh my god, its so beautiful!" This thing feeds my ego quite nicely. I cant image any other car making me happier. I am very very satisfed.

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  Cute, reliable with own personality - 2004 Jaguar X-Type
  By Nicolase - September 9 - 2:00 am

  Appearance and All Wheel Drive makes it so different at a reasonable price. Definetely this car is a standout from the pack. With its looks, Jaguar pedigree and good performance I see the japanese and german competence in a weak position,unless they copy what they see at the X Type. My 2004, X Type 3.0 has shown all of the above during the first 500 miles; in Puerto Rico where the hilly terrain, traffic jams and narrow roads are not polite to large cars.