And control it has. The S-Type's taut handling defies its initial luxury car persona. Let it loose on a canyon highway and the Jaguar takes on a life of its own, eager to pounce on the next curve with the confidence that comes from knowing that cats always land on there feet. The new 16-inch wheels and ZF steering system deserve some of the credit, but most goes to a sophisticated fully independent double wishbone rear suspension, and a great deal of fine tuning. The result is a compliant ride at city speeds, and delectably crisp cornering when things heat up.
At the S-Type's heart is one of two engine choices. The entry model arrives with a 3.0-litre, 60-degree V6, good for 240 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This is a silky smooth performance oriented motor, delivering 90 percent of its torque between 2,500 and 6,000 rpm. True driving enthusiasts should opt for the magnificent 4.0-litre, 32-valve, DOHC V8. With an output of 281 horsepower and 287 lb-ft of torque, the V8 really packs a punch. That said it's more like an effortless acceleration that pulls you snug into your seat, rather than kicking you in the back. Part of what makes it seem effortless is the S-Type's 5-speed electronic automatic transmission with Normal and Sport modes. The shifts are subtle to say the least, unless you're fidgeting with the awkward J-gate shifter. Although traditionalists might tar and feather me for saying so (which might be getting off easy), a more modern "manumatic" would make the driving experience that much better.
At the S-Type's heart is one of two engine choices. The entry model arrives with a 3.0-litre, 60-degree V6, good for 240 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This is a silky smooth performance oriented motor, delivering 90 percent of its torque between 2,500 and 6,000 rpm. True driving enthusiasts should opt for the magnificent 4.0-litre, 32-valve, DOHC V8. With an output of 281 horsepower and 287 lb-ft of torque, the V8 really packs a punch. That said it's more like an effortless acceleration that pulls you snug into your seat, rather than kicking you in the back. Part of what makes it seem effortless is the S-Type's 5-speed electronic automatic transmission with Normal and Sport modes. The shifts are subtle to say the least, unless you're fidgeting with the awkward J-gate shifter. Although traditionalists might tar and feather me for saying so (which might be getting off easy), a more modern "manumatic" would make the driving experience that much better.