In any trim level or motor combination the X-Type is a respectable competitor in terms of handling and ride. The car's commonplace roots have effectively been infused with a certain Jaguar-ness. Incorporating the wagon body style shouldn't detract from any of this either. Although the car still rides on the same suspension layout as the sedan, the revised spring and damper rates should mostly negate the additional weight that the wagon brings. Its ride quality and turn-in sharpness are expected to be the same. The stability control system on the X-Type has been reprogrammed specifically for the wagon as well. North-American bound Estates are all equipped with all-wheel drive, featuring tenacious grip in all weather conditions helped along by wide performance tires.
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| The X-Type's commonplace roots have effectively been infused with a certain Jaguar-ness. (Photo: Jaguar Canada) |
Both V6 motors share a similar origin that go well and beyond the range of Jaguar's own lineup. At the very center of it all is Ford's Cleveland V6, which can be found in a variety of products including the bread and butter Taurus. it's been brought up to Jaguar's standards, however, by means a of an advanced cylinder head that incorporates continuously variable valve timing, three-stage variable induction manifold, 32-bit microprocessor and electronic throttle control. It creates 80 percent of its torque at 1,500 rpm and 90 percent at just 2,500 rpm. The 3.0-liter six creates 231 horsepower and 209 lb-ft of torque, which is edged out only by BMW's 330i Touring in terms of horsepower. Its rivals offer slightly more torque however, all important for hauling loads.
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| The top-line Estate's 3.0-liter V6 creates 231-hp and 209 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Jaguar Canada) |
The smaller 2.5-liter V6 is essentially the same engine architecture, equipped with the same high-tech mechanics but featuring a smaller bore by one half liter. Output is still ample at 194 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. Jaguar caters to both sporty drivers and those who prefer more relaxed transportation, by offering either a five-speed manual with an accurate short throw or a five-speed automatic, actuated through the requisite J-Gate shifter. Performance loss should be minimal seeing as the additional metal and glass amounts to just 60 extra kg (132.3 lbs).