In terms of standard equipment on the 3.0-liter model you get 17 x 7-inch alloy wheels with 225/45 HR17 tires, one touch power tilt/slide moonroof, split/folding rear seat, and the upgraded wood and leather interior appointments. Jaguar also offers a sport model with tuned suspension, larger tires and rims, better stereo, spoiler, and xenon headlights. Make sure you drive this model because the ride is a lot sterner than the others and without a more powerful engine to maximize the handling ability of the sport model you might be disappointed. We certainly encourage Jaguar to place a more potent engine under the hood of the X-Type and make it a truly great ride.
On the road stopping is aided by ABS, ventilated discs in front and solid discs in back and the brake pedal has a helpful feel. The limited slip differential makes the all wheel drive more seamless. The independent suspension has stabilizers with coil springs in front and back. The .33 coefficient of drag rating makes the ride fairly quiet, although certainly not in the Lexus class, is only marred by tire noise.
You can get to 60 mph in under seven seconds and the engine noise makes you feel you are traveling even faster, but this is no featherweight vehicle so don't expect miracles. As all Jaguars, the X-Type needs premium gas and returns about 21 mph for every gallon in mixed, but frisky driving.
But, the best part of this vehicle is its agile handling and the all wheel drive capability that provides reassurance on wet roads. The steering is a superior combination of easy to park and quick reacting and has a quality feel at speed. Overall, this is a much better X-Type and certainly enjoyable to drive. Of course, more power would be appreciated.
Unemployed young male's view: Looking for work is more difficult than breaking up with your long time girl friend. Ask me, I just did both. Anyway, looking at the Jaguar perks me up. It is quiet to drive, has a muted interior that is understated but still elegant, and brought badly needed attention to this now unattached driver without having to resort to begging or online dating.
The audio controls are mounted low on the dash and should be higher for easy use. The GPS was difficult to master and it controls some climate and stereo functions making it a distraction. I liked the audio controls on the steering wheel much better. The stereo unit in our test car was just average and radio reception was only fair.
Driving the car is easy and comfortable. The rear view mirrors are a nice size; the seats easily adjustable, and the 3500-pound sedan was always friendly. I like the car, but it just doesn't seem like a Jaguar from the outside. Would I buy one for my new girlfriend, certainly, and I have put that in writing. But, I would rather have the Jaguar coupe, which speaks of my more sporting lifestyle.
Young businesswoman: Perfect car for me, the Jaguar X-Type with either engine, in silver or black, would be ideal. Respectable gas mileage, in the right price range, and has more than enough power to get me around the crowded city.