Jaguar X-Type - Jaguar's Darkest Hour or A Forgotten Gem? (2008 2.0 Diesel Road Test)

[@Kenny_P_abz]

It was ridiculous how people sneered at the x type’s Mondeo origins when Audi cars VAG golf, Passat etc origins are ignored.

[@miroslavsynek6046]

Very good point, the A4 was much more closely related to the VW Passat than the X-type to the Mondeo.

[@aston-martin-internationalist]

I never understood the disdain for this car. I always found it to be well proportioned and actually quite pretty and the mildly facelifted car still looks really good now.

[@ClassicsWorldUK]

We'd agree, Simon! A proper bargain these days too...

[@GlossaME]

What's upgraded for the facelifted version? Thanks

[@craigsketo]

@@GlossaME there were apparently 500+ modifications to the car, however the obvious ones are different body kits, better interiors and nicer seats and some newer alloys for a start. I don;t believe any of the pre- 2007 ones had front parking sensors either, which were available on the later ones

[@simonjohnhinton1938]

Very underrated car. Ive had loads of mondeo's nothing wrong with them. I like the x type and how they retained the lines and looks of an older classic jag but made it less of a behemoth to lug around and park. You can pick up a sovereign for silly money with average miles. The diesel whilst not In keeping with a traditional big engined jag is refined enough with decent mpg. I'm thinking of getting one. A 2.5 auto would be nice.

[@DJWenlowe]

I don't understand the negativity around the X type. It's a really good looking car. The retro styling taking it's cues from the XJs is no bad thing, the XJ was and still is, an incredibly good looking car. I think X type's time will come. There's definitely going to be a time in around 7-10 years where we wake up to these and the values will rocket 👍

[@DavidDavid-kl4ru]

The main problem with this car was reliability. When a car costs a fortune to run due to constant and often expensive failures, people don't really care what it looks like.

[@alberteisenmann1023]

Isaac Maynard - Absolutly agree.

[@NewtonInDaHouseYo]

It looks like a clownesque miniature version of an X308/X350 XJ. And anything with a 4 cylinder engine or even a Diesel engine can not be considered a real Jag.

[@craigsketo]

@@DavidDavid-kl4ru I'd say the exact opposite, its actually very inexpensive to keep on the road, I've owned my facelift 2008 for over 2 years now and due to the fact that some of the main 'consumable or wearable' parts are ford based, replacing them has been relatively cheap, I've put two new drive shafts on it for less than £150, water pump for less than £50, I even fitted a new aircon compressor for under £100 which I got of ebay and was brand new. I threw out the standard radio and CD unit and fitted a nice DAB one which handles apple carplay from my iPhone and it's been a brilliant car. I owned an XJR sport in the 90's which was a decent car, but I honestly wouldn't swap my X-Type for it, no comparison reliability wise, the XJR truly was expensive to keep on the road and I sold it before I'd owned it a year.

[@DavidDavid-kl4ru]

@@craigsketo Fair enough squire. I'm glad you're having a good experience with your X type. Might I deduce that you're mechanically knowledgeable and do a lot of your own maintenance? Always fancied an XJR or any traditional XJ really. Love the cars just can't entertain the running costs. Have to stick with the Honda...sadly.

[@marcusnaish3410]

i had one for ten years 100 000 happy miles. sold it to a friend . he had a horrendous smash . strength of that car saved him. got an xf now but i loved my x type.

[@LoudModeOn]

I always thought the retro styling suited the X-Type better than the S-Type. Such a pretty little car.

[@vernongoodey5096]

Like all jags after they get to 20 years old everyone loves their looks. I had a XJS always got people complimenting it! Yet when it was introduced it was slated because it wasn’t an E type! Those buttresses were also hated but they certainly kept it straight and low when doing 134 mph on the A34 many years ago

[@Rapscallion2009]

I don't know if Jaguar would still be a thing if they hadn't done this. It was a relatively accessible, volume car. It did cheapen the brand a little, but at the time the typical Jag was a dated, shoddy absolute money pit getting by on the glory days of the 60s and selling on nostalgia. This car gave them to money to fix that, and a foothold in new, younger and moderately less wealthy markets. It was a stroke of genius.

[@alwolschleger7242]

I've had two different X-Types, one a 2.5 manual, the other a 3.0 manual, both 2003s with the full-time AWD. Fantastic cars, especially the 3.0! I think they wore that design language very well, and they still look good today. The 3.0 had plenty of power, and with a good set of tires it could run with a lot of sportier cars, especially on a curvy road. They both were absolutely unflappable in the snow with winter tires. They rode well on the road, had comfortable seats and attractive interiors, and even the 3.0 could manage 28 mpg (US) on a road trip. Frankly, these are the sorts of cars that should really be attractive to enthusiasts. They were available with manual transmissions and are great to drive. I'd still have the 3.0 if 17 years in the northern U.S. hadn't turned the undercarriage into proverbial Swiss cheese. I liked the first one well enough to get another, and I liked the second one well enough to buy an XE with the supercharged V6, so definitely count me as an X-Type fan!

[@clocktowerpreacher]

I think it’s a lovely car, brilliant in every way in my opinion … We have a 2.2 litre turbo diesel saloon with auto transmission. Lovely positive ride & a joy to drive in every way !!! Amazingly economical with 44 mpg, less than £300.00 to insure and about the same amount in road tax … Loaded with goodies and everything still working fine even though 1st registered 2008 … I’d highly recommend this car to anyone !!! God Bless

[@juliemartin934]

🙏

[@bobbylockes]

The x-type really stands out now as the curves and double headlights are timeless and rare these days. The estate version is truly fantastic. The red one in teh clip above looks brilliant too. x-type is an affordable and beautiful car due to ford parts (I see this as a huge advantage). I recently replaced the rear bearings and wishbones and it drives like new after 152 000 miles (2004 v6 2.5L). Only disadvantage is how difficult it is to replace the spark plugs.

[@garybrown4854]

I've got a 2004 Xtype 2.0D estate , had it for 11 years , done 107k miles , it does have issues but I can live with them , it's a bit tatty looking now , I call it patina LOL it's been a great car though and has only let me down once when the turbo pipe popped off because of a corroded jubilee clip , AA fixed it by the side of the road in half an hour . I don't care that its a bit fordy its also very much jagy as well . Your review was a pretty fair one .

[@smoothmicra]

Can't say I like the retro styling but spot on about the Mondeo underpinnings. A reliable and well screwed together car, parts affordable and plentiful, not a bad choice as an every day driver.

[@jasondonavich2758]

I've just got my self an 07 X type and honestly I love it, it's got all the comforts you would want, it's a really comfortable drive and honestly the style is really nice and the front always reminds me of the mk6 Celica which is always a bonus for me.

[@RS-vg5nz]

Looking at the current market seems like with time more and more people are becoming fans of the x-type. Price has gone up substantaly over here in British Columbia Canada

[@robtt997]

Nice measured review. My brother in law has had two of the estate versions . Both petrol automatics . Decent cars and reliable . Good over long distances

[@ClassicsWorldUK]

A great all rounder!

[@hermand]

I've just gone from a near-new XF to an X Type run-around. Didn't set out looking for one (Quite the opposite, in fact, I was shopping for Fiestas and Corsas!). Good lord, what a hidden gem of a car - I remember all the hate, the Forduar stuff, "Mondeo in Drag" etc etc. Well, for one like you say - oh, how awful, it drives like an incredibly successful and popular car! For two, it might have a shared heritage but I had a same year Mondeo and it's *really* not a Mondeo. This was meant to be a throw away car, but I think it deserves far more

[@victortucker8545]

Actually a very cool and dependable automobile. Quick and nimble with outstanding brakes. Got mine up to 130 mph , that’s plenty fast.

[@henryhartley9993]

I have the 2.2 diesel 6 speed in this colour, it's a great car that's cheap to insure and maintain, love it...

[@timbre7999]

Excellent review, well presented and an interesting description of how it compared to it's contemporary rivals and how the Mondeo origin was disguised, even though it didn't need to (Ford made some brilliant cars then).

[@ClassicsWorldUK]

We'd agree, the Mondeo connection is no bad thing! Thanks for your kind words :)

[@DaleSteel]

These cars have got better looking with age. The 2.2d with the rekiable 6 speed auto in estate form is an extremely reliable economical motorway muncher

[@herridge819]

I've got two X type diesel manual estates, a 2.0 and a 2.2, great cars and being a blue oval fan I think being based on a Mondeo is good news too!

[@soothingsoundsstudio.relax9009]

Well, the queen has one! And, until recently drove it herself!

[@ClassicsWorldUK]

If it's good enough for Liz...

[@simonhodgetts6530]

I like the looks of the X-type immensely- especially the wagon version. I have almost been tempted to buy one a couple of times…………

[@chasc301]

Estate 2.2 in BRG owned for 14 years now. Very reliable and pleasure to drive.

[@steveegginton535]

This is the 3rd review of the X Type that I have seen recently that presents the car in a far more objective and positive light. Think much of the original criticism was based on ill informed opinion! Had an X Type for nearly 12 years and did 200k on it and it was still going strong - my main complaint was that the clutch was heavy particularly in traffic,

[@virtu81]

the X Type is an excellent car with a design that is still current, especially compared to its rivals of the time which today appear obsolete, this applies even more to the S Type

[@B.a.S.t.A.r.D.]

Ive had my 08 plate X type for about 10 years 🤔 For me I’ve loved it because most hate it 😂 It’s been a very reliable car . Ive heard all of the Mondeo jokes but that doesn’t bug me I’m a massive Ford fan too 😂 I won’t be selling my X type any time soon . New cars really don’t do it for me 🤮

[@cartorque4202]

It's a shame you don't see to many on the roads anymore. I was gutted when I got t-boned in my 3.0 petrol x type

[@craigsketo]

100% agree with you, I've had my 2008 X-Type for just over 2 years and its a superb car, mines only a 2.0D but it does over 50mpg and tax is about £190 a year, whats not to like with todays fuel prices!

[@B.a.S.t.A.r.D.]

@@craigsketo Mines a 2LD as well Plenty of poke for me 🤔 It does remind me of the Rover 620 i had one years ago . A poor mans rolls lol I’ve still got my x type still my pride n joy 😀👍

[@chrwl007]

I cried when my 2007 X-Type 2.2D was written off about a month ago. I'm sure I'll miss that car. But on to an XF 3.0D now

[@thomasgray5406]

@@B.a.S.t.A.r.D. Oh you've got me quite emotional, I got rid of my 1999 Rover 600 (with leather interior, 55K on the clock) two years ago for a 55 plate 2.0d X Type (now 65K miles), I should've kept the 600 as well as buying the X Type as it was in very good nick but was reaching the stage of mechanical replacements. Ironically, the X Type is not being embraced as a Jaguar just like the 600 wasn't fully embraced as a Rover.

[@adrianharrison5208]

I love the styling of the X type and I think it was quite amazing how they managed to pull off the classic look... I have been thinking about a Jaguar estate and I may just buy a a 2.2 automatic.. You are right as when these first come I was the age group that Jaguar wanted to push these on but I decided to keep my E30 than buy one

[@mr_pastry]

Good video. One point though, it was based on the 2nd gen (Mk3) Mondeo underpinnings.

[@stigmoltu-jacobsen]

Thanks for an excellent review. I agree fully with your evaluation and views, even though I’ve never owned an X-Type, only driven some with great joy and satisfaction. I’ve owned all sorts of other Jags over the last 40 years.

[@liverpoolscottish6430]

The snobbery directed at the X-Type was risible and moronic. It was based on the underpinnings of the excellent Mondeo of that era. Top Gear raved about the Mondeo, and Clarkson went so far to say that it drove as well as the E46 3 Series. The DB7 used the XJS floor pan. The Saab 93 used the Vectra chassis Bentley use plenty of FIAT components. Little was said about that, but because the X-Type used a Ford as it's basis, all the bar room 'experts' and snobs gave it a hard time.

[@SauzeeGod]

best car i ever owned, miss my x type 😞

[@ClassicsWorldUK]

They're a great all-rounder!

[@hotmasked1]

I still have my 2002 X TYPE 3.0 British Racing Green fully loaded with cream seats...and I still love it I hope to have for a long time,

[@oliverbrookes27]

I had an estate version of the 2.2d auto x type, one of the last made 58 reg, same colour, same interior as the video. Without doubt the most comfortable cruiser I have ever had. 250 miles non stop was never an issue, you'd get out feeling fresh with no aches and pains and it simply wafted along. It was a short love affair of just 18 months. Door lock failures, rear window catch failure, the car had a DPF which reduced oil changes to 6,000 miles thanks to oil dilution, it was awful to drive when the DPF was regenerating, EGR valve problems and it ate front tyres. 10,000 was the best I managed, worst on Goodyears was 6,000. I'd had more powerful fwd Audis diesels which would do 30,000 on a pair of tyres so it wasn't driving, the Jaguar always felt very front heavy and once the tyres started to wear it tramlined badly. An MOT check shows the car is still running and now has over 80,000 miles, but it has had some serious work over the years to get it through the test. I did have a coutesy car while my Jag was in for repair and it was the same age Mondeo 2.2 auto. The Jaguar was a far better car. Better ride and much quieter in the cabin.

[@CathodeRayNipplez]

Based on a Mondeo is far better than being based on a Jaguar of the era.

[@bobfreestone1752]

- and it has a number of Ford delights: heated front screen, fuel cap 'side' indication.

[@AlanTPT]

This is a lovely looking car and reliable. I have a 2009 2.2d in British racing green and it turns heads especially in Europe. Classic looks and decent pace. The front seats are the only negative for me. Can’t find a comfy position - needs more base support.

[@ChrisPinCornwall]

I had a 2005 diesel estate. Nice car. Bit prone to rust.

[@willwelch5700]

Great video 👍🏻 It really was an interesting time at jaguar under the reign of ford. As the video highlights, it was really a catalogue of bad decisions that perhaps left this car by the wayside. The styling was definitely on point and from every angle you feel the heritage of past models. Always quite fancied one of these and prices seem to be decent to snap one up for relatively decent money, but, you are right.... scarcity will drive up the price and we will perhaps look back more fondly to the x-type rather than "that Jag that had a Mondeo chassis" Oh, well....I'm off for a look at the classifieds!

[@tiguanman1170]

I had a Mondeo Mk3 2.0 TDCI Ghia X auto which was an excellent car. My son has a 2.2 ST hatchback and I always fancied that engine with an auto 'box but Ford never built that though I found out that Jaguar did along with Aisin-Warner 6-speed 'auto so I purchased an X-Type estate 2.2 auto in Sovereign spec. The previous owner had to let it go because they live in the ULEZ zone. It's needed a bit of TLC and there's the odd thing to deal with when the weather is better but it drives really well, the improvement I hoped for over the Mondeo. The styling stands out in a car park and I really like it.

[@WolfiePeters]

I have a 2.2 diesel estate. I wasn't looking to buy an X type and I'd never particularly liked them, but they were so much better than everything else. Contrary to what most say, they are better handling than 3 series Beemers. In many ways, it's the best all round car that I've ever owned or driven and I've driven a lot.

[@nikolaidiqnov6801]

The car is absolutely fine, even better than its rivals back in the day. I guess the usual Jaguar bashing prevented most people to see that this car is nice looking and pretty reliable. Even now people are talking nonsense when it comes to the X type. Why the underpinnings of a Mondeo would be a problem? What do you want - Lucas wiring, that plagued Jaguar for decades? If you look at Mercedes C class from that era, you have serious rust issues, gearbox problems and engine problems.

[@kela6020]

One of the best car I've ever owned with its 2,5 liter V6. And still own it.

[@DM-it2ch]

Odd how people will dismiss the X-Type as "A Mondeo in a frock", and go and buy an Audi A3- a Golf in jackboots.

[@alextoft9199]

Really balanced review. I think they are very unfairly underrated. In the right spec they look great and are more than good enough a compact executive of that era. We have a 2006 C220 and while it's very cool, it shares a lot of the problems of this X - Type, like a noisy diesel and poor build quality in places. These cars aren't meant to be perfect. They are for Mr average like me, to have something a bit sporty on the drive in suburbia, with a premium badge that drives nicely. Are any of these cars perfect? No. Do they make you feel cool when you drive It? Yes. Job done. 🙂

[@athollmcnicoll256]

I loved my X-Types but sadly when fuel prices hiked to an all time high, I settled for a cheaper version BMW, then an Audi and so saw my spiral into German cars. Was my lack lustre for what I considered to be a great car.

[@paulnoonan1407]

I’ve had 3 x type,s in 2 years and spent a fortune! Everyone of them had problems and then you find out most of the parts are unavailable from jaguar. Even if you manage to find the part you require you have to pay premium prices. So if Jaguar gave up on the x type why the hell should the people that love everything about the x type (and I’m one of those people) that have had to give up on owning one. In a matter of years you’ll not be able to find or buy parts , if you do you’ll have to get a mortgage out to be able to afford them

[@Dieseljonnyboy]

I got a 2006 2.2 diesel estate with 90 k for £1900. Now coming up for 200k. Never let me down. I change oil, fuel and and air filter every 6 k. Got it cos it was cheap and I needed an estate. Great old workhorse.

[@leslieking3974]

Love to hate is very true as to how I feel about the 2003 x-type 3.0 that I bought in 2014, w 130k miles on it. The car came w worn steering wheel, no head lights, and a check engine light on. I managed to drive 60k miles in the past ten years, no reverse, broken vent under front windshield that stares at me the moment I am on road, the fading color on top, on the trunk and squeaking front wheels . The repair list is long that I performed other than one day son ran the car hitting the street curb and I had someone towed it home, and a few time replacing the tires. The list are in these categories: check engine light replaced all o2 sensors and finally fixed the cel by having an anti fouler spark plug $5，many time engine light came indicating malfunction w spark plugs, one of them had a torn screw hole that I managed to insert tiny wires from iPhone charging cable, replaced valve covers, booster connectors and a few items broken and lead to air leak. The list includes its cooling system. Had cracked coolant reservoir when bought, replaced that, not realizing the whole cooling system starts failing in the order of lower hose connector to radiator, leaking radiator, broken fan causing engine over heat. I still remember being on I 680 waiting for the tow truck. Changed the thermostat twice. Battery changed a few times and alternator failed twice, I had battery light on dash before going to airport to pick up son, it died right after I parked inside the airport. I had to rent a car port and mange to tow it home w my Ford F-250. That’s in December as I went to Christmas party that noon after I returned the rental. Windshield cracked from my own careless check of the wiper blade. I think the metal arm hit the windshield cracked the glass. Somehow I ventured to buy the glass and installed myself. It’s a hell job and once in a life thing that I won’t do it again. The door lock from rear passenger side never unlock rendering no opening from inside, can’t open from outside either. After years of owing this car, I managed to open that door and replaced the stuck actuator. Front door driver side was damaged by street parking. I finally got a door in same color and managed to replace the door. The fitting was never perfect, the window actuator crushed, and took quite some time to finally fix the actuator and guard so window close tight. I can still remember driving on freeway and hearing the high pitched noise from the tiny gap between glass and door frame. The panel has never been tight fit to the door due to broken plastic hinges. Lately the door open light is on dash while I know the door is closed. I can not lock the car anymore for the past several years due to erratic alarm sound. Now I can’t lock my car even for a short time when I park on for grocery shopping. I wish I had the space to retire this car and really takes the time to paint the body, tear apart the transmission and figure out if the broken reverse band is the culprit. Some oil leak around the engine oil pan. Forgot to mention I replaced the fuel filter twice. Second time being loose in mind and thought I’ve been there the gas from unplugging the fuel line got into my ear(s). It was so painful that I thought my head is going to explode. It went away after I rinsed myself. No fun. I changed the front struts twice and till this day driving w squeaking sound. The struts are not Jaguar oem. I think the metal to metal pressing creates the noise. What else do I miss? The limp mode happened a few times, when it happens, car would not run passing 20 mph. The one hideous fix was the learning process after I did something w the spark plug. It’s not well known nor documented, someone posted that sequence, it worked. I stitched the broken front driver leather seat. That worked out ok, though the stitching is no way comparable to the original. The fog light went away after I fixed them once and I never found out nor bother to fix it as there are more urgent fixes on the car. I wish to keep the car until I have the space and time to restore it. Or shall I sell it? Maybe $2k? I purchased $3k, the lady credited me $200 for the check engine light. Overall the car has issues that really call for knowledge and skill to fix, and mind to care to love. I can’t imagine how a person would pay a garage to keep it running to this day. Just the parts are probably over $3000 admitting that I usually buy used or new aftermarket parts that are built crappy to begin with. The car looks great. I never stop admiring it’s look from almost all angles. The car drives fine and is comfortable in handling. It drives well when in rain season on freeway. It speeds as my heart goes in.

[@xDivinitysCreaturex]

DCT clutch issues were the big thing to check

[@tomg4753]

Owned '68 XKE convertable, a car with a bad reliability reputation that could be picked up on the cheap. Now you can't buy a nice one for less than $100K. Also owned a Jag '62 Mark II that the X-Type resembles that now sell for $50K-125K. Jaguar resell does a big dip initally but as it ages, recovers nicely as the X Type is now doing and become a classic.

[@davidfuters7152]

I loved both of mine , if I could have afforded it I would have kept the 3lt sport but 25 mph was not enough for 20,000 miles a year , so I got a 2.2ltr diesel which did 50mph The only difference was the wheels as it was the sport spec diesel the same as the petrol

[@stephendavies6949]

My dad had a 09 version almost identical to the one tested, including the colour. Lovely car, and the Ford bits enhanced it. And which car marker doesn't share technology and bits with other models?

[@golders99]

Lovely looking car the Xtype.

[@nickmoore2301]

Great cars, I think the styling has aged very well, unfortunately the main problem with them now is dreaded rust making them uneconomical to repair 🥺

[@alberteisenmann1023]

These cars have nearly no rust. May be the first series. But since 2002 they have less rust than the C class Mercedes of these days. I have a Jaguar s-type from 2006. So the car is 15 years old. And there is absolutly no rust on it.

[@brendancasey866]

Had an 03 plate 2.1 V6 petrol manual, for 6/7 years changed the front discs and pads rear suspension arms to get rid of an annoying squeak not a test failure, and a couple of oil and filter changes in that time, never let me down, much maligned car due to the undeserved posh Mondeo tag.

[@willswheels283]

They are a nice car, but I think Ford shot themselves in the foot revealing the X type was based on a Mondeo Platform, people must have thought well I could probably buy a top of the range Mondeo in 2001 for less than a 2001 Jaguar X type. I can see why that Diesel engine as fitted to the Mondeo and the Transit was fitted to the X type but it’s a noisy engine and not what you expect to hear from a Jag, you expect silky smoothness. Great review as usual Phil, thanks.👍

[@ngaugefan696]

I have owned 5 Jaguars, two of which were x types. A 2.5 v6 then a 3.0 v6. One point half of new Jags sold were diesel. The s type diesel was not available at that time, so more than half of new Jags sold were x types. The s type was based on another Ford platform. As for the Ford connection this made replacement parts cheap. An example of that happened to me, a work mates car electric parking brake motor got replaced about a month before I had to do mine on a S type. The vat on the normal car was the same as the total price for Jag part. The oil filter from Jaguar for an XJ6 was cheaper than a well known brand make!

[@duncanwilson5170]

I have a diesel estate with over 200k on the clock, drives better than many cars with less than half that mileage.

[@johnkay3277]

I got a 05 2.5 v6 awd estate to replace my bmw 3 series touring and iam so happy with it and no oil leaks lol

[@Niro.C]

Jaguar followed Mercedes as the same era's C-Class looked like a downsized W220 S-Class, and the X-Type looked like a downsized X-350 XJ. I loved the X-Type and even more after the final facelift.

[@andrewmarsden1970]

I remember colleagues sneering at my mate who got one. The mondeo thing. Idiots. Nice car, just the wrong time perhaps.

[@kebabtank]

I always thought the Jag X-Type was a lovely looking car and would loved to have owned one. Unfortunately, at the time this car was launched the British motoring press was a good ten years into their love affair with BMW. All I can remember at the time was: BMW this and BMW that, if it wasn't a BMW the motoring press didn't want to know. I think the car speaks for itself and for many people I have known who owned one, they really liked it. But as I said, with all the free advertising for German marques and poison pen letters courtesy of the press, the Jag was always going to struggle sales wise.

[@ilterismutlu]

Well prepared video thank you. I prefer Jaguar X-type because engine is common with mondeo mk3. In this way I can find mechanical part and mechanic easily. 2.0d has some missing such as 6th gear, aux&bt, lighter&stronger Headlights.

[@garethshaw4634]

I had a 2.5 V6 2001 model, would have been around 2011 it was as rotten as a pear underneath, but I wouldn't rule one out again it drove really well

[@jamesblake3846]

Never fully understood the hate towards them. My Dad had two 2.0d Estates and took them up to 270,000 miles. Reliable, comfortable and cheap to run. One of them is still going after he sold it to a local garage for scrap money!

[@Paul58069]

I've always liked the X-type's styling and these days even more so. It is a truly superbly executed mini XJ and that is quite some achievement ! THe X-350 XJ for instance, did not manage to look like a proper XJ. So if you don't like old XJ styling, this is not the car for you. But that's not the cars fault. THe only thing you may critique is Jaguar's decision to go retro in this segment. An entirely understandable move, seeing the runaway succes of the X300 and X308, but not a wise move given the targeted demographic for the X-type.

[@nztv8589]

Agree totally. My dad's owned one for 8 years, he loves it, looks great and has been really reliable (the 2.1 2006 model). However, having had it for this length of time we can now see where the criticisms comes from. As a mass market seller it was never going to succeed, old fashioned styling, gas guzzling engines, incredibly dated infotainment system which makes a fisher price toy look hi-tech. Early models were very unreliable. However the handling is superb, and steering is excellent. The ride is a little firm and there is not much room in the rear. I've driven a 2002 3.0 xtype which is an awesome car, powerful and handling is still up with the best but the interior was awful. The boot is massive and the 2.1 isn't too bad on petrol. They got it right after the 2004 tweak and the subsequent facelift models. We've garaged it all the time there isn't a spot of rust on it and the paintwork looks like new.

[@martynharrison8099]

Based on mk1 mondeo? Where are you getting your information from? Underpinnings from mondeo mk3 estate with rear suspension reworked by jaguar's tech team.

[@paullemon6542]

I have a 2003 and it’s a great car

[@ClassicsWorldUK]

Absolutely!

[@lindagray2282]

Lovely looking car, mondeo wearing it’s Sunday Best. I may buy one now they’re affordable 😃. Far more reliable I bet than the AUDI 2.0 TDI I bought instead. Head gasket gone, turbo gone, all at under 70,000. Spent £1000’s on repairs 😫 Car was never hammered, I’m 76yrs old, enjoy 60 mph cruising on M-Ways on inside lanes. Never annoy speeding truckers nor boy racers 💁‍♀️

[@ishz3260]

Why people don't give this car much credit, I really don't know. It was actually better than bmw 3 series and merc c class . This was much better looking, and better to drive. As for the two German cars. Proper over rated.

[@alberteisenmann1023]

Absolutly agree. And I am German.

[@vaultdweller2287]

Personally, I think the s-type was the better looking one of the ford based twins. people hate the tooth brush grille but I think they designed the stype much better

[@philnewstead5388]

Forget the Mondeo underpinnings which is a bit of a red herring when you consider that some Lexus models have Camry underpinnings and Audis have VW underpinnings the problem with the X type in my opinion is that it completely missed its target market as you say the styling appealed more to the traditional Jaguar owner and indeed many owners I met were either retirees who had owned an XJ as a company car and wanted to have a Jaguar without the expense and size of the XJ and the younger buyers tended to be people who had always wanted a Jaguar because their parents or grandparents had owned one, the other reason I don't think they were able to compete with particularly Audi and BMW in this market is because the cars were not particularly performance/handling orientated and there was no performance model offered which of course appealed to the thrusting young executive. The x type was not a bad car by any means but neither was it a particularly good one Merrits lent me a 2.5 awd car for a week when they first came out and I remember being quite disappointed, it was quiet and comfortable but the entire experience was was marred by the unpredictable transmission when could spend and age between changes and under certain conditions could be quite clunky and unrefined.

[@BigMacOsaurusRex]

I’ve loved this car since I was a kid. If I want to buy one in 2024, which engine should I be interested in? I can’t afford to make the wrong choice. Which version was the most reliable?

[@NZotyoka81]

The v6 petrol engines are very reliable but their fuel consumption is not the best from my personal experiences. The diesel engines have better fuel consumptions but they could be more problematic considering their ages now. If that is your dream car from your childhood then i would choose the 3.0 v6 manual. Chances to find a low mileage example is more possible than a diesel one plus the petrol v6 sounds better and goes better and has all wheel drive system.

[@BigMacOsaurusRex]

@@NZotyoka81 Thank you for your response. Fuel consumption isn't a significant concern since it'll be a weekend car. However, I'd like an automatic. Is the AT V6 3.0 version reliable?

[@NZotyoka81]

@@BigMacOsaurusRex I had a 03 s type x202 with 3.0v6 and with the 6 spd ZF 6hp 26 automatic transmission which was solid and reliable, but the x type got only the 5 speed ford transmission what wasn’t the best in the s type. If could give you an advice then my advice would be is don’t rush with the purchase. Finding a good example is takes time. The clean traceable service records is a must especially if you looking for an automatic version. If the owner is kept changing the fluids in time there shouldn’t be big issues. Try to target thoes cars what is been used outside the cities so that way you can be sure the transmission not being worn down like thoes what is constantly dealing with heavy traffic jams. Also check the shifter in stand without engine on if the gear selector is coming out from “P” position without stepping onto the break pedal or not. If it’s moving that means the shifter modul is broken because there is a solenoid inside the modul what is disengaging a plastic latch what is releasing the handle from “P”. I had to change mine once because the stupid mechanic has broke it. Jaguars floorshifters don’t have the release button on the knob like other cars have. In a Jaguar is enough if you just simply pressing and depressing the break pedal to taking out the transmission from “p” position. The 3.0v6 engine will likely not giving you major headaches. It will start always for you. Just make sure have the right oil and coolant in it, and keep the service periods.

[@BigMacOsaurusRex]

@@NZotyoka81 Wow, thank you very much for your help. Unfortunately, I discovered that in my country, it's no longer possible to register and consequently buy gasoline cars manufactured before 2011. The situation is even worse for diesel cars. This is aimed at encouraging electric vehicles, and by 2035, driving any fossil fuel-powered cars will be completely prohibited. However, it's still possible to purchase cars that are more than 30 years old and obtain a specific registration allowing unrestricted driving. Since 2035 is in 9 years, I'm considering going for a maximum 30-year-old automatic gasoline Jaguar. Do you have any advice, reliable models to suggest, and things to check before buying, please?

[@NZotyoka81]

@@BigMacOsaurusRex You’re welcome, i’m glad you found my previous message informative and useful. I only had my s type for a little bit more than 3 years. During my ownership i had the opportunity to get to know my car well and at the same time other models too what was made at that time. (X-type,XJ.) Mostly the main parts are the same. Sadly I don’t know much about the new era models what was already made under the indian Tata company, but what i know certainly is that the first gen xf models are based on the s-type. They have a better suspension than the x type has but more complicated and obviously more expensive the service. You can find one with the good old 3.0v6 engine. The transmission is a 7 spd Zf which is a very reliable transmission just like the 6 spd what i had. Personally i don’t like the new generation models because i missing all the beauty, elegance, uniqueness and spirit what the older models have. They really stood out from the mass unlike the new ones. When i drove my stype i was literally unable to go anywhere without not getting good compliments. People smiled and waved at me especially the kids. Overall it was truly a pleasure except at the services where i left a lot of money because the maintenance is ain’t that cheap. I called my car “ the beautiful nightmare” 😀But i loved it and still thinking back onto the car with a smile on my face.No regrets here.That’s all i can tell you.

[@Fishy1764]

I had a 2.2 6speed and I loved it.Its one of the few cars that never let me down. I also owned a mondeo of the same era and that was a complete bag of s#$%.

[@rob5944]

I was quite young at the time and couldn't see anything wrong with the car, and still can't. People said it's a Mondeo, I said "So what?". Perhaps it was badge snobbery, a thing that still exists to this day. If it doesn't have the prestige of a German car maker then many just don't want to know.

[@matsujarvinen]

Identical case is MB W220(S-cass 1998-2005),great car.Also E-class W210,one of the best MBs,but considered ugly by some.Of course they were from the "rust-era"of Mercedes,but not all of them are rusty,and otherwise tecnically great vehicles.

[@Timico1000]

I think being based on a Mondeo was both its biggest up- as well as its biggest downside, at least for its reputation. (Btw, wasn't it the MK3 Mondeo it's based on?!) When it came out the X-Type was critizised for its relaively poor spec (at least here in Germany) with cloth seats, manual rear windows (!) and no alloys as standard while being quite expensive. And personally, i didn't like its looks as well. But: a while ago i saw a nice one (dark green with beige leather interior, 3.0 4x4, saloon) at a used car dealership and it was really attractive, i even considered buying it.

[@allenkoe1]

I got a 2002 with 158,000 miles and it’s only broke down on me twice everything else was regular maintenance awesome car

[@leeallen623]

I love my Jags , currently jagless but in a Freelander so still a JLR product. Iv'e had three X types a diesel with the basic spec level an ex jag 2.0v6 with all the toys and the one i regret selling a 2.5v6 Indianapolis, also had two Stypes a 2.5v6 sport another one i wish i hadn't of sold and a 2.5v6 sport with a manual box

[@bmwman1981]

The issue was that the lower engine size cars were brought by people who wanted a Jaguar but couldn’t afford one as a result many were poverty spec which really hurt the car .if they had only sold high spec cars it may of survived

[@rolandmiczki5037]

i have a 2.5 L V6 Petrol AT AWD Estate :) I love it... my best car :)

[@ClassicsWorldUK]

A perfect all-rounder!

[@deanstanley5799]

The x type comes into its own in the estate version far better looking than the saloon and way more versatile

[@masterkaiserterry]

Without FORD help on 03-07 for the mark Jaguar. They couldnt make the Serie XJ. So. They could say more proud words. For the "Mondeo Origins". An it is only like 30-40% of Appearance. The Mech. (Motor and Drivers). Are of a True Speed Runer. I acquire a 08 Jaguar Type X. And I am proud of it.

[@markbrennan4693]

I loved my 2004 2.0 D SE blue with cream leather. I hoped to keep it for some time, but the plastic sill covers hid terminal rot , I think later models had better rust protection/drain holes ?

[@justinlambert1324]

Seriously cool car now, would have one in a heart beat 👌

[@jamiesmith8313]

Mate could you please find an str to review , pretty please 😬😂

[@taylorbyrne570]

I’m looking at buying a Jaguar X-Type 2.0D SE Saloon 4dr Diesel Manual (149 g/km, 128 bhp) this would be my first ever car… it’s done 95K miles but not sure what to do ? Any advice?

[@Kiinell]

Nothing wrong with it being a Mondeo in drag, apart from the fact that if you bought one new you looked like a fool, because it wasn't a Jag. Would be way better off buying a high spec Mondeo or a 3 series.

[@gillb9222]

Awww people shouldn't be mean to the X type. I love my X type. It costs me a fortune as it's getting on a bit (08) but I am happy to pay it because it's so pretty and it's really easy to drive (female and petite so don't want anything heavy). Much prefer how it looks to modern cars.

[@garethhanna9173]

I had the the 2.5 V6 version, a good car let down my flimsy trim and rotting sills.

[@GordonMiltons]

The basic problem was reliability an chassis corrosion. I had the 2003 3 litre version and central locking, air conditioning controller, chassis sills rotting, gearbox failure at 87,000 miles, left me feeling it was the worst car I’d ever owned. I did buy an S-type a few years later and that was just as bad. Put me off Jaguar for life.

[@chiroquacker2580]

Methinks I'll stick with my 99 Lincoln Town Car. It's a Ford luxury car done right and the King of all American cars (while they were still making them anyway).

[@billwhite8479]

The S type is a better car because of it's RWD in line configuration, the 2.7 diesel being a very capable car and good value..

[@777jones]

I don’t like these. However he aluminum bodied XJ series? Total thoroughbred beauty.

[@ClassicsWorldUK]

We love an X350! Have you seen our review?

[@anthonyperkins7556]

Based on the Ford Mondeo Mk1 platform, slightly shortened, and using Mondeo bits from the Ford parts bin, people and reviewers laughed at it, ridiculing it for this, calling it a 'Ford Mondeo-In-Drag' which wasn't far from the truth in this respect. Didn't trouble Audis Mercedes and other luxury prestige marques for sales, and like the equally disastrous S-Type (which didn't even offer an estate version), was a financial liability that haemorrhaged money from Ford's coffers. Added to it, reliability was pretty brittle, especially on early ones, and the chassis's have a tendency to rust and rot over time. Not one of (Ford owned) Jaguar's best efforts. The only X-Type I liked was the estate as it was slightly more practical with rear seats folded, and very slightly better than the saloon.

[@John_Wood_]

Ran one of these for 10 years and over 100k miles. Absolute money pit

[@GlossaME]

What engine?

[@John_Wood_]

@@GlossaME 2.0d

[@Purlee100]

I have a 2009 X Type with a 2090 cc petrol engine. It is a far better car than the original X Type and while it might owe a bit (about 18%) to a Ford, there was nothing wrong with the Mondeo anyway! It is not as though no other cars owes its structure to another model, Audi, Seat and Skoda are badically VWs and none the worse for it. Sure, the looks of the Jaguar probably appeal to the traditionalist but it is recognisable as nothing else but a Jaguar, no other cars look like a traditional Jag. They did not hold their price, which means that today they are a great, well behaved luxury car at a "banger" price. What's not to like?

[@alberteisenmann1023]

These cars have nearly no rust. May be the first series. But since 2002 they have less rust than the C class Mercedes or BMW's of these days. I have a Jaguar s-type from 2006. So the car is 15 years old. And there is absolutly no rust on it.

[@petej2811]

Are Geoff Lawson and Ron Jeremy in any way related?