2008 Jaguar S-Type
Based on analysis of 32 S-Type reviews and test drives.
Jaguar S-Type Ranks #12 in Luxury Large Cars
Overall Score - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Based on U.S. News editors' analysis of 32 leading automotive reviews and test drives, the 2008 Jaguar S-Type ranks #12 of 12 in Luxury Large Cars.
The S-Type is a classic statement-making large luxury car, but suffers from questionable value in a competitive class. If you're in the market for a large luxury car, you should also consider the BMW 5-Series, Infiniti M and Mercedes Benz E Class.
The 2008 Jaguar S-Type is praised for classy (if traditional) exterior styling, as well as sporty performance of the S-Type R supercharged version. 2008 will be the S-Type's last production year. Rather than overhaul the car, Jaguar has announced that the new Jaguar XF will replace the S-Type sedan, and is set to be available in Spring 2008. While the S-Type has been updated in recent years, it is still less popular than most of its competitors. The Chicago Sun Times says that "Jaguars still have plenty of style, but it seems as if a sparkling heritage means little, if anything."
The S-Type has "been around too long in its present form, and sales are caught in a downward spiral," reports Forbes. Jaguars are generally considered overpriced, especially in comparison to increasingly strong competitors. IntelliChoice gave the 2008 Jaguar S-Type 4.2 an overall value rating of "Average," for its predicted five-year cost of ownership compared to other vehicles in its class.
The S-type does achieve relatively strong fuel-efficiency, with an MPG rating in the top half of its class. As new XFs begin to arrive at dealerships, it may be possible to obtain a relatively fuel-efficient, stylish and powerful S-Type for a surprising discount.
Any discussion of Jaguar cars should also note that the company has recently changed ownership, having been sold to India's Tata Motors in the Spring of 2008. It is not yet clear what kind of support Jaguar owners can expect from the company under new management.
The S-Type is available in three trims: the base S-Type 3.0, the S-Type 4.2 and the premium S-Type R.
S-Type Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
Auto reviewers say the 2008 Jaguar S-Type 3.0, 4.2 and R are all capable performers, handling with confidence and driving with refinement. continue
S-Type Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)
Auto writers find that the S-Type has a throwback style to the sedan of the ‘60s. Keeping with the classic feel, Jaguar has freshened up the S-Type exterior with contemporary appeal. continue
S-Type Interior - 7.9 (Good)
Reviews show that the S-Type's interior is upscale and tasteful. The S-Type can seat four adults comfortably. Forbes says the S-Type is both plush and "conservatively British." continue
S-Type Safety - NA
The 2008 model hasn't yet been crash tested. But in government tests, the 2007 S-Type earned 4 out of 5 stars for front seat protection and 5 out of 5 stars for back seat protection in side impact crashes. Front-impact tests have not been performed. continue
S-Type Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Jaguar S-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). Jaguar cover the S-type with a four-year/50,000-mile warranty. continue
