Jaguar X-type

   The Jaguar X-type is produced since 2002. It is available as a sedan or a station wagon.

   The X-type comes with three petrol engines and one turbo diesel. The 2.1-liter unit is quick enough to please while being the most cost effective than other models. However all of them are sweet and swift. The 2.0-liter turbo diesel is superbly refined. It is much better ownership proposition if you will consider the fuel bills.

   The Jaguar X-type is based on the Ford Mondeo's chassis. The 2.5- and 3.0-liter models are four-wheel drive. All of them have superb handling and ride comfortable, especially the all-wheel drive models. The gearshift is smooth and precise, but the clutch on the petrol cars feel rather wooden.

   Inside the car wind and road noises are more pronounced, than the engines, that are extremely quiet even at motorway speed.

   The new Jaguar X-type is a great value for money. On the other side are servicing costs, that might be pricey in countries, where Jaguar is unpopular. The petrol engines are also comparatively thirsty. However this car should keep it's value well. Despite being a new car the X-type shares many of it's mechanical elements with the older models. Furthermore Jaguar is trying to build a reputation as a manufacturer of reliable cars.

   Unfortunately interior quality is not up to the highest standards. It is still made in the best traditions from wood and leather, but a more modern feel has been introduced. All switches are logically arranged and easy to use. There is plenty of oddments space inside the car too.

   There are a number of adjustment for the driver's seat and steering wheel.

   The X-type has a spacious interior. Three passengers can get themselves comfortable on the rear seats. It has less headroom than some of it's rivals, because of the swooping roofline. The boot is large and has a wide opening, but it is shallow and rather poorly shaped. This is why it's load-carrying ability is limited.

   The new Jaguar comes with a superb safety kit. The front airbags are intelligent and consider the severity of a crash, seat position and weight of the person sitting in it. The X-type also comes loaded with security measures.

   It also comes with a long equipment list, but there are some strange omissions. One of them is an air conditioner rather than climate control is fitted on some models. An automatic gearbox is offered for the petrol models, but not the diesel.

   Production of the Jaguar X-type still continues.

   Advantages: Captures everything a Jaguar should be in a compact package. Superb ride comfort and slick feel of controls.

   Disadvantages: Not as sharp to drive as a BMW 3-series even with Jaguar's standard four-wheel drive. V6 engines are thirsty.

   Verdict: A proper Jaguar in a compact package. 

   Also consider: BMW 3-series, Mercedes-Benz C-class.

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