2000 Jaguar S-Type 4.0 V8 - The Mark II's Spiritual Successor
It's not often that Jaguar releases an updated model, yet a new platform. The S-Type enters the market to compete against the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6 etal. The advertisements would have us believe the S-Type is the reincarnation of the classic Mark II, a car that virtually invented the luxury sport sedan class. One thing for sure, just looking at the new Jaguar certainly stirs up fond memories.
The classic oval grille surrounded by four round headlamps, resembles the classic Mark II. Its elegant waistline tapers down as it approaches the rear of the car, causing palpitations of the heart. The designers didn't hold back, incorporating many classic Jaguar design elements into the new S-Type. The result is simply beautiful.
Jaguar is all about heritage. The bloodlines run long and deep, and the Jaguar faithful are very serious about their cars. With that in mind, the very thought of creating a brand new Jaguar would be an intimidating task to say the least.
Slipping behind the wheel of any Jaguar is like entering the smoking parlor of a wealthy Englishman's country estate. Sensuous leather abounds, polished chrome accents adorn and high gloss burred walnut covers the dash, door trim and console. The S-Type is replete with these definitive Jaguar cues, yet unfortunately includes more plastic than in previous models. As well, this plastic is lower in grade than is expected in this class of automobile.
These small shortcomings soon disappear when the engine is brought to life. The 4.0-liter V8 is silent and smooth at idle, not even hinting at the ferocious 281 horsepower that is eagerly waiting to be unleashed.