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By Autotropolis Editors
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Strengths: |
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Standard all-wheel drive traction; supple ride and handling; luxurious interior appointments. |
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Changes: |
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For 2008, Jaguar's entry-level luxury car gets a subtle facelift, including a revised mesh grille. On the sedan, rain-sensing windshield wipers become standard, while inside, upgrades include improved standard features like ten-way power seats for both driver and passenger, with driver memory, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The X-type is slated to be discontinued at the end of the 2008 model year. |
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Value: |
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The 2008 Jaguar X-Type, the smallest and most affordable Jaguar new model currently available, has standard all-wheel drive and sporty handling, with a nice ride and luxurious interior. The Sportwagon stands out as distinctively different when compared to German-brand competitors. |
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Overview: |
The compact 2008 Jaguar X-Type is available in two very well-equipped models: the 3.0 sedan and the Sportwagon. Both models are powered by a 227-horsepower 3.0L V6, which is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.
The engine is tuned for strong mid-range torque, which sees it dash to 60 mph in only 7.1 seconds while also returning 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway.
Both models come standard with Jaguar's Traction 4 all-wheel drive system, which provides 60% power to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions, but automatically compensates when the system detects slip in any wheel. Power is put to the ground through a performance-tuned, four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes oversee the entire process.
Both cars employ power-assisted variable-ratio power steering for high-speed stability without sacrificing maneuverability.
Like its larger Jaguar stablemates, the X-Type gets a full array of air bags, including front seat-mounted side air bags, side-impact curtain bags for all outboard occupants, and a driver's knee-bolster air bag. The Sportwagon includes a vertical cargo net aimed at retaining cargo in an accident.
Both models feature a 70/30 split-fold rear seat, though the Sportwagon is geared for more active customers, with rear seatbacks that easily fold forward to create more cargo space as needed-up to 50 cubic feet.
The tailgate features a separately opening rear window for convenience, and the entire tailgate has one of the lowest lift heights available for easy loading. Standard on the Sportwagon is a reverse parking sensor and a 320-watt, ten-speaker Alpine stereo, while the sedan gets a six-speaker system.
Both X-Type models have some interior appearance features that are rare on a vehicle of this size, such as striking Bronze Sapele wood trim, along with plenty of luxury conveniences such as a power moonroof, leather upholstery, ten-way power front seats with driver side memory, and automatic climate control. |
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