2004 Jaguar X-Type

The X-type was Jaguar's first entry into the premium compact segment and was a sales success, outpacing company projections by 19 percent--with 87 percent of those buyers being new to the brand. We had a 2002 in our one-year-test fleet; it was a nice enough driver, but left us with concerns centering on the quality of some of the materials and the high initial price (ours was a hefty $44,120, sans nav). Somebody must have been listening, as more than 1000 component upgrades have been made since the car's 2002 introduction.

For 2004, Jaguar reshuffles the X-Type's price and equipment, dropping the cost of the 3.0-liter model and making some previously optional equipment standard. Base 2.5-liter models add a single-disc CD and 16-inch wheels. The 3.0-liter versions include a standard sunroof, split/folding rear seat, wood and leather trimmed steering wheel, and auto headlamps. Three trim levels--premium, sport, and luxury--reduce the number of order combinations and price through packaging.

V-6 engine choices remain the same, but include improvements such as a new variable-geometry intake manifold for broader torque delivery. Either engine can be mated to an automatic or manual transmission. All-wheel drive is standard, something competitors charge extra for.

Jaguar is confident these equipment and price-point moves will allow it to offer buyers the larger-engined variant for the same or less money than what competitors charge for their base models.

While the premium compact segment is tough, the midsize arena is even tougher, with a new E-Class out last year, the 5 Series being completely redone this year, and a fresh and fabulous A6 coming this fall. So, for the second time in five years, Jag has given the S-Type a substantive overhaul. The front end of the 2005 model is mildly revised and gets an aluminum hood. Rear-end styling is more thoroughly massaged and looks better to our eyes.

There are interior trim upgrades--especially for the S-Type R, which lend a sportier air--18-inch wheels can now be had on non-supercharged models. Adaptive Cruise and Forward Alert warning systems are among the new options. Jaguar also claims that quality has improved, with better panel fit and other overall improvements in the areas of finish and assembly. No bad thing, against a raft of German machines that do this stuff pretty well.