2008 Jaguar X-Type: Road Test

Archived Review

2008 Jaguar X-Type 

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  • MSRP: $35,060 -$39,330
  • Invoice: $31,905 -$35,791

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Our road test for the 2008 Jaguar X-Type includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Jaguar X-Type from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Jaguar X-Type, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Jaguar X-Type help you decide if a 2008 Jaguar X-Type is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
6 6 6 6.5

Class competitive at best. A sedan did 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds in our test. The engine is not strong below 4000 rpm, while the transmission's tardy downshifts frustrate response in the 40-55-mph range.

FUEL ECONOMY

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
5 5 5 5.5

In Consumer Guide testing, sedans averaged 19.0 mpg in city/highway driving, 21.4 in mostly highway travel. No opportunity to measure with the wagon. Jaguar recommends premium-grade gas.

RIDE QUALITY

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
6 5 6 5.5

Takes bumps as a solid unit. X-Type is stable at speed, befitting its sports/luxury positioning. It comfortably absorbs bad pavement with 16-inch wheels. The wagon has 17-inch wheels. It suffers from wheel patter and some impact harshness. All ride firmer still with the 18-inch tires, but none are uncomfortable.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
7 8 7 7.3

Secure and agile for the most part. Fast turns induce some body lean, but AWD maintains outstanding grip, even when powering out of wet corners. Steering is communicative, accurate, and nicely weighted.

QUIETNESS

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
7 6 7 6.1

Wind rush is impressively low. Road noise intrudes with the 18-inch tires. Under full throttle, the V6 growls nicely.

CONTROLS

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
5 6 6 6.2

Unobstructed instrumentation. Low-mounted audio controls require driver to look away from the road. The navigation system is no picnic to program, and its incorporation of climate and audio functions monopolizes driver attention. The automatic transmission has Jaguar's J-shaped gate selector, which some testers fault for imprecise action and difficulty of use in manual mode.

DETAILS

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
6 6 6 7.2

Standard leather and wood strive for an upscale cabin ambience, but some of the plastics disappoint.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
6 6 6 6.8

Adequate six-footer headroom. X-Type's standard tilt and telescopic steering column helps set a comfortable driving position. The front seats are narrower and softer than the European norm but have good support. Smartly sized mirrors contribute to fine outward visibility, despite a tallish cowl.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
4 4 4 3.7

As much usable space as any direct rival. The seat cushion is too soft for best support, and narrow doorways compromise entry and exit.

CARGO ROOM

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
4 4 7 4.3

At 16 cu ft, the sedan's trunk is among the largest in this class. Folding rear seatbacks, low liftover, and nonintrusive strut hinges enhance versatility. Sportwagon increases cargo space, but overall space is less compared with other premium compact wagons.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
3 4 4 6.2

The X-Type is an acceptable blend of performance and luxury. It comes with the all-weather capability of all-wheel drive, and offers the versatility of a wagon body style. X-Type has Jaguar cachet, but top rivals are better all-around cars.

Total Score

Sedan w/navigation Sedan w/18-in wheels Sportwagon Class Average
59 60 64 65.3

Total Score: 61

Scores for all Premium Compact Cars

Low Score
59
Average Score
65
High Score
72

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