He says, the X-Type Wagon's maximum usable load volume with rear seats folded flat is greater than that of the BMW 3-Series Touring and the Mercedes C-Class Wagon, and an astonishing 20 per cent bigger than the Audi A4 Avant -- an impressive achievement.''More important still, in Bernardini's view, ''is that this level of practicality is offered in a car with all the style and dynamic agility of an X-TYPE sedan, and body stiffness that ranks with the best in class is the starting point for excellent chassis dynamics.''
A number of improvements and additional specification choices have been introduced for the 2004 X-Type model year. Drivers who prefer a sportier look, for example, can order the $5,000 Sport package with 18-inch wheels, monochromatic exterior trim, sport seats and more.
Other key features of the X-Type wagon include:
-an independently opening rear window as well as a conventional full tailgate opening.
-a new headliner incorporates additional rear lighting, while the rear luggage area includes two interior lights and window vents
-beneath the load floor is a storage space incorporating a power supply socket in the spare wheel area, which makes it possible to charge a laptop while it is discreetly concealed
-four spring-loaded, chrome-finished D-rings in the rear load compartment provide a secure luggage tie-down facility.
All X-TYPEs offer a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmissions.
The Sport Package includes 18-inch Aruba Alloy Wheels with performance tires, a monochromatic exterior, sport seats, a sport-tuned suspension, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), 320 watt Alpine sound system, Xenon (HID) headlamps, and more.
There's also a $1,700 X1 premium package with memory driver's seat and exterior mirrors, power passenger seat, a universal garage door opener, rain sensing wipers, message centre and trip computer, reverse park control, and pre-wire for voice activation.
Other accessories include a luggage partition and divider, roof cross bars, a boot utility protector and a detachable tow bar - will be offered to enhance the X-TYPE Wagon's inherent versatility.
Both engines are V6s, with the 2.5-litre delivering 194 hp at 6,800 rpm and 178 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm and the 3-litre putting out 231 hp at 6,800 rpm and 209 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm.
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