2003 Jaguar S-Type Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.68/5 Average
92 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For the 2003 S-Type, Jaguar has redesigned the interior, upgraded its hardware and added models to the range. The model lineup includes the S-Type 3.0 SE and 3.0 Sport, 4.2 V8 and the supercharged R. The S-Type R is the most powerful Jaguar sedan ever created, making about 400 horsepower and moving from rest to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. A new five-speed manual transmission is attached to the 3.0-liter V6 this year, while a new six-speed automatic transmission puts V8 power to the rear wheels. The suspension is also new in front and heavily revised in the rear. New standard safety features include stability control, panic assist brakes, anti-whiplash front seats, dual-stage front airbags, side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants and power adjustable pedals with a memory feature. Jaguar has also stiffened the body structure, made slight revisions to the exterior styling and added xenon headlights as an option (standard on the R). Audiophiles can opt for the 320-watt Alpine sound system, and technology buffs will appreciate the new touchscreen telematics system with improved voice recognition.

Pros:
  • Powerful R sport sedan, beautiful styling, full load of standard safety equipment.
Cons:
  • A few cheap interior bits, high price, fussy J-gate shifter.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 92.00
  • My Fave - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    I purchased a 4.3 S Type used in B condition & it needed some non engine related issues fixed. I did that right away. Its a fantastic, comfortable car & it has spoiled me so I will need to spend the rest of life in Jaguars & nothing else. I need to redo the paint on the trunk lid because it faded while it stayed too sunny under the end of a carport. I have a full garage so its not getting anymore damage. I strongly encourage purchase & preservation of Jaguars to those who are reading reviews to decide to buy. You will seriously need to find a non liar mechanic. I use a relative & avoided a huge bill.

  • This cat purrs but doesnt roar - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    The best looking sedan on the road - by far. Nothing beats the style of this car, inside and out. This is my second Jag - my first a 95 XJ6 was also a dream. I wish Id opted for the 4.0 (dont like the R, I want the chrome)- the 3.0 6 cyl lacks response in lower gears. After having driven a BMW 5 series for the last 3 years, I was used to lightning quick excitement. Still, the beauty, grace and ride quality are more than worth the trade-off in acceleration. And did I say it was the best looking car on the road? This is a head-turner - no mistaking this car for anything but a Jag. I am so sold on Jags I got an X-type for my daughter.

  • Nothing compares with this beauty - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    I am in the process of purchasing my third S-Type. No car on the road today has the appeal of this modern classic. The reto look has given me the chance to drive a Jag from the E-Type era, with the curves of the XJ6 Series 2. The lines on this car make it stunning and down-right beautiful. For the many years I waited for a modern XKE, I find myself driving a S-Type and not the XK8 or XKR. This car is a gem.

  • Awesome! - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    A very fast cat! It has more than enough power and its there when its needed. Comfort is outstanding. Turns are effortless, does not driv like a 4-door. I just wish it would stay on the road and not in the shop. first a fron right suspension problem. Brakes (rotors and pads) needed replacement just after 25,000 mile and its in the shop again for an electrical "glitch."

  • Love the 5 speed Manual - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    Test drove the 6 cylinder manual and automatic, and fell in love with the manual. This cat really moves, and I love having the control of the manual, though I do not drive in traffic because I take the subway to work. This is a great fun car for the weekend. I read that 70% of the 2003 is new and that lots of the R technology dribbled down in the suspension and the frame....wow, even the low end S is a wonderful machine. I am in love.

  • Love the 5 speed Manual - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    Test drove the 6 cylinder manual and automatic, and fell in love with the manual. This cat really moves, and I love having the control of the manual, though I do not drive in traffic because I take the subway to work. This is a great fun car for the weekend. I read that 70% of the 2003 is new and that lots of the R technology dribbled down in the suspension and the frame....wow, even the low end S is a wonderful machine. I am in love.

  • Number 2 and counting - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    This is my second S-Type. Traded my 2000 V-8 for the new 2003 S-Type R. What a car!!! Calling the engine/transmission combination superb would be a huge understatement. I cant believe how much better this car is than my 2000, which is by far the best car that I have ever owned. Build quality is incredible, no problems at all with the 2000 and the quality of the 03 appears to be even better. Dont know how they did that. This is now the best car ever.

  • Jerrys Jag SR - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    First Jaguar after many Mercedes Benz. Fun to drive Fun to sit in distinctive Moderate gas consumption

  • Mid-Life Crisis Muscle Car - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    I have driven a Porsche 911 SC Targo foralmost 20 years. Decided it was time to grow up. Love the S Type R. Plan was to drive it for a couple of years, thengo back to a Porsche. Probably, wonthappen. Class, style, comfort and catquick. The muscle car you wanted in the60s with luxury. Fuel consumption on the open road is very good, considering the engine. In town, I only have my right foot to blame. Although, a heavy car, it handles like it is on a rail. I have not had the car long enough to discuss reliabilty. I completely enjoy the car; and, have a teenage son that is drooling about the chance to drive it (there is a chance - a fat one).

  • The Cats Meow - 2003 Jaguar S-Type
    By -

    This car has standard suspension and has excellent handling and braking. The interior layout is just fair. It lacks thoughtful displays a dedicated driver needs; eg, the information panels are tiny, LCD panels that cannot be read when wearing polarized lenses. The old J-gate transmission shifter needs updating. The auto on/off lights and wipers are terrific. The seats are extremely comfortable, even in back, where the seats can fold down. Unfortunately the trunk is so designed as to limit access of some larger boxes.

Jaguar S-Type Reviews By Year:
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