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2002-2008 Jaguar X-Type Pre-Owned

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Justin Pritchard
Used X-Type appears a sensible luxury buy
It seems that the X-Type was a car that Jaguar had plenty of trouble convincing a lot of people to buy. It had the premium-car requisites in place: engine selection, all wheel drive availability, and posh, up-scale styling and interior appointments. You might say it was somewhat innovative too- as Jaguar's first front-drive vehicle. There was even a station-wagon model available.


Thing is, BMW, Audi and Mercedes continued to lead this market- selling several, or even many times more of their entry level products than Jaguar did in the same period. Apparently, the Ford-based sedan wearing the leaping simply came from the wrong country.

Those who own an example of the X-Type seem to love the car's performance, style and comfortable interior. Owners also rave about the car's all wheel drive system and how it adds to all-season confidence- though most complain about rear-seat space and fuel mileage.

Engine choices included a selection of V6 powerplants. These displaced 2.5 or 3.0 litres and generated 194 or 230 horsepower, respectively. Transmission options were a five-speed manual of five-speed automatic, and most owners and reviewers called the manual a great way to get the most performance and fun out of the car.

Interior style is somewhat traditional, but great looking nonetheless. To most, the X-Type's cabin will prove a great place to take in the luxury offerings the brand is known for. Leather, wood trim and Jaguar's famous "J-Gate" shifter help set things apart.

If this cat has your attention, you'll be relieved to know that reliability looks fairly good. Common problems to be on the lookout for include a potential coolant leak, caused by a broken coolant tube leading to the expansion tank. If this tube leaks, it could cause overheating in the engine which can lead to expensive damage- so mind the coolant gauge on a test drive and check for green puddles under the car.

A popping sound from the stereo during braking could indicate the need for a capacitor to be installed in the brake-light circuit, and another wiring problem may leave the passenger side front seat without a functioning heater.

Justin Pritchard
Justin Pritchard
Automotive expert