2007 Jaguar X-Type [ 2008 ]
Jaguar X-Type
Overall Score - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Jaguar X-Type offers a status-conferring brand name, a comfortable ride and respectable handling. Although the styling is generally well liked, the interior is considered somewhat below Jaguar standards, and the rear-seats are cramped.
For every reviewer that liked the Jaguar X-Type, there were two that didn't. Engineered to be a competitive entry-level luxury sedan, the X-Type suffers from a split personality: Jaguar styling and refinement coupled with Ford underpinnings that simply can't compete in the luxury sport sedan segment. Edmunds summed up the majority opinion, saying, "if you really want a new Jaguar -- complete with "leaper" on the hood -- this is the cheapest way to get into one. And it feels it ... In a market segment that includes such brilliant performers as the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS and Infiniti G35, the 2007 Jaguar X-Type is an also-ran."
Exterior styling is widely seen as pleasant, and while dated it is still quite appealing. However, the interior gets mixed reviews, with some test drivers noting the use of fine wood and leather and others noting parts that appeared to come from Ford's parts bin (owner of Jaguar). The rear seat in particular was seen as both cramped and hard to get into and out of. Edmunds observed that "tight rear-seat entry" made rear "ingress and egress difficult."
Writers from Edmunds conclude that the 2007 Jaguar X-Type is "a pleasant everyday companion with all-wheel drive and all-weather ability," but "is generally outclassed now by newer competitors." Kelley Blue Book adds that although the X-Type "never quite lived up to Jaguar's expectations, at least not in the U.S.," it can still bring some "style and flair at a price most social climbers will find agreeable."
Introduced in 2001 and without a major overhaul since then, the X-Type comes with standard features that can make the base price seem like a deal, including all-wheel drive, anti-lock disc brakes, Dynamic Stability Control, leather seating, eight-way power driver's seat, a power moonroof and a plethora of air bags. Despite these standards, MSN summed up the view of many reviewers on the X-Type's value: "The car isn't as well-rounded as competitors from Audi and BMW, even though it's almost as expensive."
IntelliChoice agrees, and gives the X-Type a "poor" value rating, based on an estimated five-year cost of ownership compared to others in its class.
The 2007 Jaguar X-Type comes in two different trim levels, a four-door sedan or five-door Sportwagon.
X-Type Performance - 7.2 (Good)
Reviews of the 2007 Jaguar X-type's performance are generally good, with many test drivers noting its refined ride and competent handling. However, a vocal minority takes issue with the limits of the engine and handling when driven hard. Suffice it to say, the X-Type offers a driving experience that probably won't live up to the standards of most enthusiasts. "The X-type can be driven with some zeal. But not happily," complains Car and Driver. continue
X-Type Exterior - 8.3 (Very Good)
The 2007 Jaguar X-Type strives to emulate classic Jaguar styling, and many feel the car delivers on that goal. Kelley Blue Book says, "Jaguar wanted to make this car look like it costs twice as much as it does and, with continued improvements, it's getting closer to a more refined Jaguar appearance." continue
X-Type Interior - 6.3 (Mediocre)
For the majority of test drivers, it's clear that the X-Type's interior is nicer than the interior of the average car, but it falls short of meeting the expectations of the Jaguar name and the excellent interiors delivered by most of the cars in its class. "Standard leather and wood strive for an upscale cabin ambience, but some of the plastics disappoint" says Consumer Guide. continue
X-Type Safety - 7.4 (Good)
The X-Type Sedan earned 4 stars (out of 5) in federal government side-impact crash tests, but wasn't rated in front-impact tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 2007 Jaguar X-Type a rating of "Good" (its highest rating) in front-impact crash tests, however, the X-Type only earned a "Marginal" score in side-impact crash tests. continue
X-Type Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Jaguar X-Type reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Jaguar X-Type's limited warranty is for four years or 50,000 miles. continue
