2003 Jaguar X-TYPE Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The Jaguar X-Type sedan with only minimal changes for its second year of production. The price of the entry-level 2.5L model comes down a...
The Jaguar X-Type sedan with only minimal changes for its second year of production. The price of the entry-level 2.5L model comes down a bit, to attract more potential buyers, and the the upper level 3.0L is further distinguished by exclusive standard features like 17-inch wheels and a CD sound system. Both models now come standard with electro-chromatic mirrors.
In 2003, the X-Type continued as Jaguar's only AWD car, and was also the only model offered with a manual transmission. Two trim levels are available, but each can be enhanced with costly options packages. Both the base 2.5L and the upper level 3.0L come standard with many of the luxury items one would expect from Jaguar, including wood trim, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, keyless entry and steering wheel audio controls. Safety features include ABS, traction control, side airbags and all-wheel drive.
The base engine is a 2.5 liter V-6, making 191 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. This sedan runs from 0 to 60 in 7.9 seconds, and earns an EPA rating of 19/28 mpg. The more potent power plant is a 3.0 liter V-6, good for 227 horsepower and 209 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy is estimated at 18/25 mpg, and 0 to 60 can be achieved in about seven seconds. A five-speed manual transmission comes standard with with the 2.5 liter engine, and the 3.0 liter V-6 is paired a five-speed automatic. The manual is a no-cost option with the larger engine.
The X-Type set apart from other Jags by exclusive features like AWD, a manual transmission, and the sub-$30,000 price. That number becomes a distant memory once options are added however. Jaguar has aimed for a younger audience with this new model, and the response has been quite positive. Unfortunately, the engineering cannot match the prestigious XJ-inspired styling, and the X-Type has received abundant criticism for the inclusion of various Ford components. The X-Type offers a safe and sporty ride, but reviewers concur that it cannot match the refinement of the more expensive Jaguar models.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers are quite pleased with the 2003 Jaguar X-TYPE, highlighting its stylish appearance, comfortable interior, and enjoyable driving experience. Many appreciated the smooth ride and performance, especially with the all-wheel-drive feature. However, some noted issues with engine power, maintenance costs, and difficulty in finding replacement parts, leading to mixed feelings about reliability."
This was a very nice looking car, the interior was very nice and leather all around. The interior and body styling definitely said Jaguar, even if it was a baby Jag. I got a lot of comments on it, as I kept it clean and well cared for. While I always thought it was a bit under-powered, with the 2.5L V6, I think the 3.0L would be fine. The AWD system worked quite well and definitely improved traction in the snowy Colorado winter road conditions. The price was surprisingly moderate relative to other European cars of similar size and features. The down side was maintenance costs. It was difficult to get parts for, the parts were much more expensive than the American car equivalents and I had to go to a specialty Jaguar repair shop for anything more complicated than an oil change, which was also more expensive. Mine had on-going issues with the throttle body and the engine electronic systems, particularly fuel delivery systems. Sadly, mine got totaled out as a result of an accident. The damage was not too terrible, but the repair cost exceeded the value of the car, so the insurance totaled it out. Seems the body shop had the same issue with parts availability and costs that I had, and it was just not worth fixing.
March 22, 2015The more I drive this car, the more I love it. It has a feel unlike any other car, and I've owned many makes. The AWD is what makes this little Jag shine. Corners flat, no body roll, very silky smooth ride, and you will catch yourself looking down at the speedo and saying "whoops...90" and won't feel like it. It is my daily driver and I am pleased with it. Do the maintenance. But that goes without saying for ANY car.
April 16, 2014I love this car, it does everything. Brilliant secure handling thanks to the 4WD, especially on icy/snowy/greasy/wet roads. Lusty 240BHP V6 and the manual gearbox is a pleasure to use. Extremely comfortable and great fun to drive. It's not really a great beauty to look at and it has been in the garage a few times, but all in all it's an excellent car and much under-rated.
October 20, 2011What owners say
This was a very nice looking car, the interior was very nice and leather all around. The interior and body styling definitely said Jaguar, even if it was a baby Jag. I got a lot of comments on it, as I kept it clean and well cared for. While I always thought it was a bit under-powered, with the 2.5L V6, I think the 3.0L would be fine. The AWD system worked quite well and definitely improved traction in the snowy Colorado winter road conditions. The price was surprisingly moderate relative to other European cars of similar size and features. The down side was maintenance costs. It was difficult to get parts for, the parts were much more expensive than the American car equivalents and I had to go to a specialty Jaguar repair shop for anything more complicated than an oil change, which was also more expensive. Mine had on-going issues with the throttle body and the engine electronic systems, particularly fuel delivery systems. Sadly, mine got totaled out as a result of an accident. The damage was not too terrible, but the repair cost exceeded the value of the car, so the insurance totaled it out. Seems the body shop had the same issue with parts availability and costs that I had, and it was just not worth fixing.
March 22, 2015The more I drive this car, the more I love it. It has a feel unlike any other car, and I've owned many makes. The AWD is what makes this little Jag shine. Corners flat, no body roll, very silky smooth ride, and you will catch yourself looking down at the speedo and saying "whoops...90" and won't feel like it. It is my daily driver and I am pleased with it. Do the maintenance. But that goes without saying for ANY car.
April 16, 2014I love this car, it does everything. Brilliant secure handling thanks to the 4WD, especially on icy/snowy/greasy/wet roads. Lusty 240BHP V6 and the manual gearbox is a pleasure to use. Extremely comfortable and great fun to drive. It's not really a great beauty to look at and it has been in the garage a few times, but all in all it's an excellent car and much under-rated.
October 20, 2011Comfort and performance in an affordable package. Love it. A mini XJ
March 2, 2008Smooth drive, engine purrs, really makes the commute to work a joy. Looks cool and has gorgeous leather interior. Good acceleration but can be really fuel hungry. Not too good for road tax costs either due to high emmissions as it's a petrol engine. Would upgrade for a diesel though as really like the model.
September 6, 2008While the Jaguar X-Type continues to get a bad rap, my experience with my vehicle has been very positive. The maintenance costs are not high and not often. The looks are great and I still get compliments even though it is 12 years old. It has a very good ride for a small vehicle, maybe due to the weight, but very enjoyable on the highway and turnpikes.
March 19, 2015Great overall car fast, reliable, efficient and fun to drive! We bought this car from New York and drove it over one thousand miles back to Saint Louis I have never had any major problems with this or my other Jag. This is my second X-type and when I sell it this summer I will be looking at either 2008 models or an XF.
July 21, 2012I always wanted a Jag - this is my second one and looking to get my 3rd one. No real troubles over the last 5 years. Last year at around 110K miles - I had to replaced all 4 wheel bearings - which is normal for AWD car. The rest was normal; brakes, oil, cooling......
November 19, 2013drives as good as it looks
January 17, 2008Fully equipped, AWD, nice to drive in Winter and Summer
March 8, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $36,970 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.0L 227 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 16.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $29,970 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 192 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 16.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain AWD |
