The X-Type was introduced for 2002 in an effort to raise the Jaguar brand's sales volume. It succeeded in that way, but accomplished little else. Its mini-Jaguar styling won strong initial sales, but demand has since slackened as the novelty of a $30,000 Jaguar wore off. And aside from that novelty, the X-Type doesn't stand out. It has a capable ride/handling compromise, but that trait is matched or exceeded by many competitors, leaving class-leading trunk volume and standard all-wheel-drive as the car's only unordinary strong points. And despite annual price reductions, the X-Type remains overpriced in this class.

         The X-Type has a smooth, reasonably comfortable ride that is neither too soft nor too firm. However, it lacks both the absorbency and control of some competitors. The car is agile, with well-controlled body roll and quick steering that provides good feedback, but it still lacks the poise and precision found in the best cars in this class. The formerly-optional 3.0-liter V6 replaces last year's 2.5-liter V6 as the standard engine, and, while it is much quicker, it is no longer exceptional by this class's standards. It is quiet enough, but wind and road noise are pronounced, especially at high speeds. Fuel economy is not impressive, thanks in part to the weight of the car's all-wheel-drive system.

     Inside, the X-Type features reasonably, but not exceptionally comfortable front seats. They are nicely-bolstered, though larger occupants may find them lacking in legroom and too confining. The cushions could be longer as well. The rear is nicely shaped, but too low and soft, and lacking in head, leg, and toe space. The dash is laid out in the traditional Jaguar style, and uses mostly high-quality materials and nicely-fitting trim pieces. Some plastics on the center stack feel a bit flimsy, however. The gauges are clear, but too many instruments are small, poorly labeled, and annoying to use. Drivers sit comfortably, and can see out well. The nicely-shaped roofline compensates somewhat for the rather narrow door openings and the small rear footwell. The trunk is very large by the standards of this class, though the opening is too small.

        The X-Type did reasonably well in crash testing. It earned a rating of Best Pick in the IIHS offset crash test, and the second-lowest rating of Marginal in the demanding IIHS side crash test. NHTSA has not evaluated the X-Type's frontal performance, but it earned four stars for the driver and four for the rear passenger in NHTSA's side crash test.

        The 2005 X-Type reviewed here was less expensive than it was in previous years, but still far from a value leader. A rare standard feature includes all-wheel-drive, giving the car additional all-weather security. But the car reviewed here lacked a sunroof, power seats with memory, a navigation system, or even an 6-disc CD changer. Adding such options would have further escalated the X-Type's already ambitious price.

         Overall, the X-Type is not an exceptional car at any price. It rides and handles well enough, but is not roomy, refined, or especially quick. Throw in the high price that the Jaguar name commands, and it does not deserve consideration from consumers in this class. Unless of course, your new premium sedan has to look like a Jaguar.

Pros:

-Ride Comfort

-Trunk Space

-Agility

-All-Wheel-Drive

Cons:

-Features for the Money

-Refinement

-Fuel Economy

Overall:

A good car, as long as all you want is an inexpensive Jaguar.

Version Reviewed:

NA

Price of Version Reviewed:

$33,181

Powertrain:

3.0-liter V6