Jaguar S-Type Review

2008 Jaguar S-Type 4.2 Sedan Shown

The Jaguar S-Type is a bit of a throwback. Stately and posh, the S-Type's exterior design shows shades of the '60s Jaguar saloons, from which its designers cribbed generously. The distinct styling also distinguishes the S-Type from other luxury sport sedans on the market, which more typically feature sharp edges and angled surfaces.

At its debut for 2000, the Jaguar S-Type signified the first real fruit of the Ford-Jaguar partnership. Born as the classier-looking twin of the Lincoln LS, the S-Type was the brand's first true competing model in the modern midsize luxury segment.

Given the car's distinctive style and balanced approach to comfort and performance, the S-Type should prove to be a respectable purchase as a midsize luxury sedan. But new-car shoppers should be aware that Jaguar plans to discontinue the S-Type after the 2008 model year. As such, one of the car's more up-to-date competitors might be a better choice. Used-car shoppers will want to play close attention to the model's history, as Jaguar has been making continual improvements to rectify some early mistakes.

Current Jaguar S-Type

The Jaguar S-Type comes in one body style: a four-door sport sedan. Most people will instantly recognize the S-Type as a Jaguar, inside and out. The cabin is graced with burl walnut wood accents and lovely leather upholstery.

There are three trim levels available: base 3.0, V8-powered 4.2 and performance-themed R. The 3.0 trim comes equipped with a 235-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 while the 4.2 trim features a 300-hp 4.2-liter V8. The R performance trim has a supercharged version of the V8 that cranks out 400 hp. A six-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels on all trims.

Although each Jaguar S-Type is heavily equipped with premium features, the 4.2 trim is especially attractive. Not only does it come with the features found on the 3.0 trim (including dual-zone climate control and full power accessories), the 4.2 trim adds a 320-watt audio system with 10 speakers, a six-CD changer and a navigation system.

The supercharged S-Type R should appeal to performance-minded buyers. While it is capable of doing the 0-60 drill in just 5.3 seconds, there's more to the R than mere muscle. It is an all-around performer, equipped with larger disc brakes, an adjustable sport-tuned suspension system and 19-inch wheels. Adaptive radar-based cruise control is also available on the R.

In road and comparison tests, we found the Jaguar S-Type to be a refined drive. While the V6 feels smooth, its performance leans toward the sluggish side. The V8 engine, however, does the job. Despite the light steering and a soft suspension -- two deliberate traits of the brand -- the sedan nevertheless feels stable and confident through all manner of turns. For the S-Type R, its ultimate performance is no match for the best sport sedans from Germany. However, the car remains well-mannered and comfortable in all conditions.

Past Jaguar S-Type models

Although the S-Type has been around since 2000, it is still in its first generation. There have been some incremental changes over the years, mainly on the inside. Early S-Types suffered from a cheap-looking interior that borrowed too heavily from the Ford parts bin. But over the years, Jaguar has improved the cabin to the point where it looks and feels like a proper Jaguar.

Originally, Jaguar rated the S-Type's V6 at 240 hp and the V8 at 281 hp. A five-speed automatic was standard for both. The most important changes to the S-Type came in 2003, when the R trim was released. Jaguar also stiffened the body structure, upgraded the suspension and replaced the five-speed automatic with a new six-speed transmission. Jaguar also released a new five-speed manual transmission with the 3.0 trim that year. It was never popular with consumers, however, and Jaguar dropped it two years later.

Only minor equipment and styling changes have occurred since. In reviews of the S-Type, consumers typically praise the car's styling and features. They've commented unfavorably about its small trunk and the poor shift quality in earlier cars. The Jaguar's overall reputation for reliability is also not as good as those associated with other midsize luxury sedans from Japanese automakers.