I was in a similar situation earlier this year, but decided against the
X-type.

I went for a slightly older XJ8 - which are stupendous value for money
when compared to new prices. You get an awful lot of car for your money,
and you can find good ones in your price range.

The X Type is very competent, but buying a Jag is a decision of the
heart, not the head. Is an X-Type really what you've always wanted as a
Jag, or is it just the badge you fancy? To me, Jag means luxury with
British quirkiness in both engineering and fittings, big engines, auto
box, effortless cruising or roaring performance. The X-type just doesn't
quite have the same emotional appeal; it is tamed and sensible, really
equivalent to the Mondeo it is based, another high end eurobox car
rather than something unique.

For the first time in probably 10 years or so I am really enjoying
driving again. Just to sit in the car after a stressful day in the
office is instant relaxation. I just don't think I'd have the same
feelings for an X-type, which is probably the more sensible option. But
as you should have gathered, this is purely an emotional reason, your
feelings may well differ from mine.

Matt

I drive an X type as well as an XJ6 Series III and they are both fun to
drive, but for very different reasons.

The X type is more like a sports car in the way it sets off and handles;
she's like a scalded cat from the lights!  The XJ6 is more of a typical Jag,
i.e. Space, Pace and Grace and I guess that the modern XJ6 and XJ8 will be
very similar.

Depends what floats your boat.

If you do decide to go for an X type watch the front drivers seat for poor
positioning and stitching, the gearbox for an unusual noises or difficulty
selecting gear and finally ask if there has been any trouble with the fuel
tank (early ones used to vaccum lock and either wouldn't entirely fill or
would not let fuel to the engine!)

Have fun!

Nev

Ian

I have had a 2.5 Sport for 6 months, a true Jag in is not, but, it is still
an excellent car, very smooth and although based on the Ford, a Ford it is
not.  Handling is excellent, 4 wheel drive has got me out of some holes
already, performance is excellent too.

Not all good, so far I have had dash rattles, new instrument cluster (noisy
original), sticking boot release, loose heat shield, and yep the gear box
takes some getting use to.  But saying that, after and Alfa 156, no worries
at all.

The Jaguar dealer network has been excellent !!

Les

Thanks for all your help with helping me choose my new car.  It sounds
like the X-Type isn't a conventional 'Jag'.  I like the S Type, but
think this looks too much like the Rover 75. I think I have enough
information to at least test drive one.

Thanks