2003 Jaguar S-Type R Ratings & Review Summary

Each S-Type R is fitted with standard ABS with emergency-brake assist and dynamic-stability control (DSC) to counteract under and oversteer. There is not, however, the option of a limited-slip differential, so switching the DSC off unleashes the car's hidden hooligan nature lurking beneath its polished portrait. Indeed, it'll easily ruin a set of ContiSport Contact rear tires and the accompanying tarmac.

We came away from our Spanish first drive -- a well-calculated blend of 100-mph-plus autopista blasts mixed with second-gear tail-out rally roads -- thoroughly enthused by the S-Type R's impeccable manners, as well as its newfound power and precision. Jaguar has handily dispensed with the previous S-Type's merely amusing and customary competence and replaced it with serious thrills and world-class status that'll have the competition paying attention. Further, Jaguar has removed any hint of parent company Ford's influence, positive or negative as it may be.

While the R model will never quite be the BMW M5's nemesis, it does assert itself between the M5 and the Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG with authority -- and a measure of elegance the other two machines lack. Besides, at a price $7000 less than the current M5 and almost $9000 below that of the E55, value might outweigh fractions of a second in this race. The only question left unasked is: What happens when the 450-hp Audi RS6 arrives next year? Super-sedan critical mass? Underdog upset? Status quo? We'll be only too happy to let you know.