2006 Jaguar S-Type R Overview

2006 Jaguar S-Type R Overview

Overall User Score

4.5⁄5

Based on 2 reviews

Sculpted from the classic 1959-67 Jaguar Mk 2, the S-Type's retro exterior exudes elegance. However, there are those who define elegance as markedly modern Lexus or BMW styling. In 2005, S-Type sales sagged to the lowest since the car's 1999 debut.

As the S-Type's performance model, the "R" represents an appeal to Jaguar's glorious racing tradition. Sporting a 4.2-liter, supercharged and intercooled V8 that spins out 400-hp, the R makes the 0-60 dash in 5.3 seconds. Shifting through a very refined ZF six-speed transmission the "dash" comes off in a very civilized manner, as one might expect from a proper English sedan.

Handling, finessed through the exclusive Jaguar Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) system, equally befits English unflappability in tight situations. The R suspension electronically modulates to adapt to road conditions. In addition, an automatic leveling feature adjusts for heavy loads. Some reviewers, however, point out that even so, cars like the BMW M5 would be more attractive to an "all-out" performance enthusiast.

The interior lavishes the occupants with soft leather, real wood, or real aluminum, trim, and tight spaces. While aesthetically pleasing, the ergonomics sacrifice front passenger comfort for the backbenchers. Moving the front seats more than halfway back, tightens rear-seat passenger legroom. Furthermore, the standard 18-inch high performance tires fill the interior with more road noise than should be expected at this level of luxury. More aggravating to most reviewers was the shoddy quality and placement of the optional Sirius satellite radio unit.

NHTSA crash tests rated the 2006 S-Type four out of five stars for front-passenger protection in a side crash, with rear-seat passenger protection achieving a five star rating. Yet, every model year has been the subject of safety recalls.

The 2006 Jaguar S-Type R represents classic Jaguar elegance and performance that needs Ford's immediate attention to stay current.