2003-2008 Jaguar S-Type: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.