With V8 power, S-Types are impressively fast. A test 4.2 did 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds. An R sedan accelerated to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. Expect an 8.5-second 0-60 time for the 3.0 sedan, which is strong from a standstill with ample passing power. The smooth-shifting, fairly responsive six-speed automatic transmission always seems to be in the correct gear. Jaguar's manual transmission also shifts smoothly. Fuel economy is acceptable, except for the performance-oriented R edition. A 4.2 sedan averaged 19.6 mpg, versus 17.7 mpg for a manual-shift R sedan. An extended-use 3.0 sedan averaged a more appealing 19.4 mpg. An R sedan managed only 14.5 mpg, including gas-eating performance tests. All S-Types require premium fuel. Jaguar's base suspension allows mild float over large humps and dips, but the ride is low-impact comfortable. The firmer Sport Package suspension is actually a model of composure and absorbency. Even the R model is surprisingly civilized, though it has a tauter-still suspension and the stiff 18-inch performance tires do thump over bumps. Through turns, the base suspension furnishes good grip and modest lean. Sport Package and R versions yield quicker responses, with less body lean and greater road grip. Some testers have found the R's steering too heavy at low speeds. Its computer-controlled suspension has minimal effect on ride or handling. Braking has been short and stable in simulated panic stops, but pedal action feels overboosted and touchy in routine driving. Expect a muted, classy engine growl at full throttle. The R's supercharger adds a slight whine. Wind rush is modest. Road noise is well-suppressed, even with 17-inch tires, though 18s rumble on some surfaces. Gauges are clear and classy, but the button-filled dashboard can be daunting at first. Richly padded surfaces befit a Jag, as does the wood or aluminum cabin trim. Jaguar's navigation system is not intuitive, and transforms some radio and climate controls into multistage touch-screen operations. Turning the key in the driver's door opens/closes windows and the sunroof. Roomy enough up front, the S-Type has a cozy feel, due partly to a high dashboard and small footwells. The driver gets plenty of adjustments, including handy power tilt/telescopic steering and, if installed, power-adjustable pedals. The firmer Sport Package seats have more prominent side bolsters, and are slightly more confining than base seats. Some testers have declared the R's seats uncompromisingly hard. Although the backseat offers enough head room for six-footers, leg space is barely adequate if front seats are pushed more than halfway back. Toe space is tight, too, and three adults would be crowded. The sloped roofline means taller folks must guard their heads when exiting. The trunk is not expansive, but usefully shaped and easy to load. Available split-folding rear seatbacks add versatility, but small-items interior storage space is meager.

Value for the Money
All of these Jaguars are a pleasure to drive, with appointments and features that are worthy of the class. Prices were steep when new, but relatively low resale values compared to BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz make them wiser choices secondhand. Best value might be the base-suspension 4.2 sedan.