2005 Jaguar S-Type 3.0 Road Test

The V6 provides strong passing power at highway speeds and is struggle-free on hills. It may not pack the athleticism of the

The S-Type remains composed over rough roads, allowing only a minimum of shock and disruption to permeate the quiet cabin. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

available 4.2-litre (256 cu in) V8 or its supercharged brother, but it propels the S-Type with suitable authority nonetheless. In doing so, it exhibits demure typical of the English, remaining a wallflower until challenged. Once awakened by a tap on the throttle, the V6 emits a well-bred growl while calmly hustling the saloon car forward. Jaguar has done a commendable job of tuning-in just enough engine sound to raise an eyebrow or two and prevent occupants from being lulled into a Lexus-like state of isolation.

The smooth, unflappable ride delivered by the S-Type's fully independent front and rear wishbone suspension is very pleasing and more inline with Lexus products. The S-Type remains composed over rough roads, allowing only a minimum of shock and disruption to permeate the quiet cabin. Perhaps it comes with age or

Aggressive cornering is accompanied by only a slight degree of body lean, detracting little from the feline's steady footing. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

wisdom - I'm pulling for wisdom - but I appreciate a high level of ride comfort over blistering road-holding capability. In the parlance of Agent 007, occupants of the S-Type are stirred, not shaken, when rough road is encountered.

Yet in spite of the ride quality, Jaguar engineers managed to imbue considerable life into the S-Type's chassis, giving the mid-size cat commendable road-holding ability. Aggressive cornering is accompanied by only a slight degree of body lean, detracting little from the feline's steady footing. The speed-sensitive, variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering setup delivers quick, precise turn-in but is heavily boosted, which tends to dull feedback and road feel.