2003-2007 Jaguar S-Type Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our in-depth review covers everything you need to know about this generation Jaguar S-Type. Get the latest news, find a local dealer, and get a free price quote for this generation Jaguar S-Type.

2003-2007 Jaguar S-Type Review

Jaguar's midsize rear-wheel-drive luxury sedans earned a number of updates for 2003, along with a new high-performance version. Dimensions did not change, but all S-Types featured revised grilles, new wheels, and a freshened interior with curtain side airbags. The base V6 3.0 model returned with a manual transmission newly available. Replacing the 4.0-liter V8 version was a new S-Type 4.2 with a 294-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8. Topping the line, a new S-Type R sedan held a 400-horsepower, supercharged 4.2-liter. All V8s came with a new six-speed automatic transmission that was optional on the 3.0 model. All S-Types got a retuned suspension and added an antiskid system to the standard traction control, as well as four-wheel disc brakes. Available as a package on 3.0 and 4.2 models were a body-colored grille and an automatically-adjusting sport suspension. A similar suspension was standard on the R sedan, which featured a mesh grille, exclusive seats and interior trim, and the xenon headlamps that were optional on other S-Types. The R sedan rode on 18-inch wheels, versus 17s for 4.2 models and 16s for the 3.0. Curtain side airbags joined standard front side airbags and a newly standard power tilt/telescopic steering column. Power-adjustable foot pedals were a new option for the 3.0 and standard on V8 models. The optional navigation system had a new touch-screen display. Voice activation for some audio, phone, and climate functions was again available. Built in Britain, the S-Type shared its basic underskin design with the Lincoln LS from Jaguar's parent company, Ford. It was the less expensive of Jaguar's two luxury sedans. Rivals included the Acura RL, BMW 5-Series, Lexus GS 300/430, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Year to Year Changes

2004 Jaguar S-Type: Except for slight changes in engine output ratings, little was new for 2004. The base 3.0 model held a 235-horsepower V6, while the 4.2 sedan used a 294-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8 and the R sedan's supercharged V8 produced 390 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission remained standard on all. The 3.0 could be equipped with a five-speed manual as a no-charge option. The R sedan had an automatically-adjusting sport suspension, which was included in a Sport Package option for 3.0 and 4.2 models. Optional Adaptive Cruise Control was designed to maintain a set following distance from traffic ahead.

2005 Jaguar S-Type: A new luxury VDP edition joined the 2005 lineup as an option group for the 4.2 sedan, including upgrades to the standard leather/wood interior decor. Jaguar also noted revisions to S-Type styling led by a freshened front end, modified primary instrumentation, and altered cabin trim. The 3.0 V6 model no longer came with a manual transmission. That model exchanged its 16-inch wheels for the 17s used by the 4.2 sedan. Both models were available with a tauter-suspension Sport Package. For 2005, that option replaced its 17-inch wheels with 18s, which were also a standalone choice. Newly available with the Sport Package, and on the R sedan, was aluminum interior trim instead of the usual wood.

2006 Jaguar S-Type: No changes for the S-Type in 2006.

2007 Jaguar S-Type: Several popular options are standard for 2007 on the S-Type. Previously optional features now standard include heated front seats for the 3.0 and a navigation system and front obstacle detection for the 4.0. All models also have driver-seat memory and power pedals for '07. Aluminum interior trim is no longer offered.

2003-2007 Jaguar S-Type Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (V8s)	Control layout (navigation system)

Handling/roadholding	Fuel economy (R model)

Quietness

Ride (base models)

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

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.

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

S-Type 4.2	Rating

Performance	7

Fuel Economy	5

Ride Quality	8

Steering/Handling/Braking	6

Quietness	7

Controls/Materials	7

Interior Room	6

Room/Comfort (rear)	4

Cargo Capacity	3

Value within Class	5

Total:	58

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

2003-2007 Jaguar S-Type Reliability

Trouble Spots

Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Automatic transmission: A clunking or knocking noise may be heard from the transmission when downshifting and is fixed by putting thread locking compound on the transmission output spines. (2003-05)

Electrical problem: The outside (ambient) temperature display reads high because the sensor is located too close to the oil cooler and must be moved. (2003)

Electrical problem: The center high-mounted stop light (CHMSL) comes loose and must be reattached with better tape. (2000-05)

Fuel door: The gas cap seal eventually fails which triggers the check engine light due to vapor emissions leak. (2005)

Keyless entry: The remote keyless entry may not unlock the doors after the vehicle sits overnight for which there is an improved door module that must be installed in the driver's door. (2003)

Steering noise: Noise from the power steering requires flushing and refilling after replacing the O-rings in the rack-and-pinion unit's fittings. (2003-05)

Transmission problems: Downshifts from 3-2 and 2-1 or upshifts from 1-2 may become harsh as the adaptive strategy drifts over time requiring reprogramming the engine control module and transmission control module. (2003-04)

Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.


Item Name	Repair Cost

A/C Compressor	$555

Alternator	$440

Automatic Transmission or Transaxle	$3,720

Brakes	$675

Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing	$0

Constant Velocity Joints	$2,500

Exhaust System	$450

Radiator	$601

Shocks and/or Struts	$2,995

Timing Chain or Belt	$1,610

NHTSA Recall History

2003-04: Electronic parking brake module may unintentionally apply the parking brake, with no indication or warning to the driver; could cause rear-wheel lockup at any road speed.

2003-05: Brake fluid warning statement embossed on top of reservoir body may not be visible by direct view.

2005: Some vehicles may have fuel tanks with faulty seals, resulting in illumination of the malfunction indicator lamp, a fuel odor, and/or a fuel leak. Dealers will replace the fuel tanks free of charge.

2006 S-Type: Incorrect automatic transmission parking pawl guide plate, causing the car to not always be in "park," even though the lever may be engaged. Dealer will inspect and replace the pawl guide plate.

2003-2007 Jaguar S-Type Prices

Prices	Good	Average	Poor

2003
S-Type 3.0	$17,000-18,500	$15,600-17,000	$10,900-11,800
S-Type 4.2	$18,300-19,500	$16,800-17,900	$11,700-12,500
S-Type R	$22,500-23,800	$20,700-21,900	$14,600-15,500

2004
S-Type 3.0	$20,000-21,500	$18,400-19,800	$13,000-14,000
S-Type 4.2	$21,400-22,800	$19,700-21,000	$13,900-14,800
S-Type R	$27,000-29,000	$25,100-27,000	$18,100-19,400

2005
S-Type 3.0	$23,500-25,000	$21,600-23,000	$15,300-16,300
S-Type 4.2	$25,000-27,000	$23,300-25,100	$16,500-17,800
S-Type R	$32,500-34,500	$30,200-32,100	$22,800-24,200

2006
S-Type 3.0	$29,000-31,000	$27,000-28,800	$20,000-21,400
S-Type 4.2	$31,000-33,500	$28,800-31,200	$21,700-23,500
S-Type R	$40,000-42,500	$37,200-39,500	$28,800-30,600

2007
S-Type 3.0	$35,000-37,000	$32,600-34,400	$24,900-26,300
S-Type 4.2	$37,500-40,000	$34,900-37,200	$26,600-28,400
S-Type R	$50,000-53,000	$47,000-49,800	$37,500-39,800

This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:

Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.

Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings; engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.

Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo, etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from region to region.

2003-2007 Jaguar S-Type Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	4-door sedan

Wheelbase, in.	114.5

Overall Length, in.	192.0

Overall Width, in.	71.6

Overall Height, in.	56.0

Curb Weight, lbs.	3777

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	14.1

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	18.4

Seating Capacity	5

Front Head Room, in.	40.5

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	43.1

Rear Head Room, in.	36.9

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	37.0

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Powertrain Options and Availability

In standard form, the S-Type may have either a 3.0-liter V6 engine, or a 4.2-liter V8 that generates 294 horsepower. Under S-Type R hoods sit a supercharged V8 that churns out 390 horsepower. Only the V6 version came with a standard five-speed manual transmission. Other models have a six-speed automatic, which has been optional for the V6 sedan.

Engines	Size liters / cu. in	Horse- power	Torque	Transmission: EPA city/hgwy	Consumer Guide Observed

dohc V6	3.0 / 181	235	216	5-speed manual: 18/26 6-speed automatic: 18/26	5-speed manual: 17.7 6-speed automatic: --

dohc V8	4.2 / 256	294	303	6-speed automatic: 17/26	6-speed automatic: 19.6

Supercharged dohc V8	4.2 / 256	390	399	6-speed automatic: 16/24	6-speed automatic: --

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Built In: England

Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive

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Also in the 2003-2007 Jaguar S-Type Review:

Jaguar S-Type

Jaguar S-Type Road Test

Jaguar S-Type Reliability

Jaguar S-Type Prices

Jaguar S-Type Specs & Safety

Jaguar S-Type Photos

Jaguar S-Type Full Review