2005 Jaguar S-Type: Road Test
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2005 Jaguar S-Type ▼
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- MSRP: $44,230 -$59,330
- Invoice: $40,250 -$53,991
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Our road test for the 2005 Jaguar S-Type includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Jaguar S-Type from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Jaguar S-Type, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Jaguar S-Type help you decide if a 2005 Jaguar S-Type is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6.6 |
V6 models strong from a stop with ample passing power. V8 S-Types are plenty fast. Test 4.2 did 6.9 sec 0-60 mph, test R clocked 6.1. Smooth-shifting automatic transmission nearly always in the right gear.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.6 |
Extended-use 3.0 averaged 19.6 mpg during its 13,948-mile stay with Consumer Guide. Test 4.2 averaged 19.6 mpg. Test R averaged 14.5 mpg, including gas-eating performance tests. All models require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6.9 |
Base suspension allows mild float over large humps and dips, but ride is low-impact comfortable. Firmer R and Sport Package suspension a model of composure and absorbency, though stiff 18-inch performance tires thump over bumps.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.1 |
Base suspension takes turns with good grip, modest body lean. Sport Package and R versions have quicker responses, less lean, greater road hold. R has computer-controlled suspension that has minimal evident effect on ride or handling. Some testers find R's steering too heavy at low speeds. Braking short, stable in simulated panic stops, but pedal action feels touchy in routine driving. To prepare for snow, we put four Bridgestone Blizzak winter tires on our extended-use 3.0, and they performed admirably.
QUIETNESS
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.8 |
Muted, classy engine growl at full throttle; R's supercharger adds slight whine. Wind rush modest. Road noise well-suppressed with 17-inch tires, though 18s rumble on some surfaces.
CONTROLS
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.7 |
Clear, classy gauges, but button-filled dashboard can be daunting without familiarization. Navigation system not intuitive to all testers, transforms some radio and climate controls into multistage touch screen operations. Wood or aluminum cabin trim, richly padded surfaces befit a Jag.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 7.4 |
Cozy feel, due partly to high dashboard and small footwells, but roomy enough. Driver gets plenty of adjustments, including handy power tilt/telescope steering and available power pedals; all link to memory function in V8s. Firmer Sport Package seats have more-prominent side bolsters and are slightly more confining than base seats. Some testers find R's seats uncompromisingly hard.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.6 |
Enough head room for 6-footers. Leg room barely adequate if front seats pushed more than halfway back. Toe space tight. Three adults are crowded. Sloped roofline means taller folks must guard their heads on exit.
CARGO ROOM
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
Trunk not expansive, but usefully shaped, easy to load. Available split folding rear seatbacks add versatility. Small-items interior storage space meager.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 5.9 |
The best value here is a base-suspension 4.2 model, but all these Jaguars are a pleasure to drive, with appointments and features worthy of the class. On the downside, prices are steep, and resale values pale vs. BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz rivals.
Total Score
| 3.0 w/Sport Pkg. | 4.2 | 4.2 w/Sport Pkg. | R w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 56 | 59 | 57 | 54 | 61.6 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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