Jaguar S-Type Saloon 1999 - 2008

Move over Morse there’s a new Jag in town.  The Jaguar S-Type draws on the styling of the classic and brings it into the 1990s, just.  The same distinctive shape is there albeit a slimmed down version.  The styling retains the rounded almost phallic front end of the classic Mk II model, but offers a neater trimmed down version, less like Rumpole of the Bailey, more like Judge John Steed (no I don’t watch it either, but I’ve seen the trailers). 

The prestige British Car Marque has lost quite a bit of it’s edge in recent years.  There looks to have been too little change and innovation to necessarily compete with some of their rivals, especially the German brands; Audi, BMW and Mercedes, all of whom have consistently improved and update their offerings across the board over the last decade.  The similarity between the S-Type and the old Mk II is both an asset and a hindrance.  It draws on the traditional appeal and at the same time shows a distinct lack of ambition, which may put off more prospective buyers than are attracted to the traditional styling.  The problem with harking back to previous classics is that the sort of person that is attracted to the retro styling is the same sort of person that is less likely to change their car regularly, so you’re appealing to a less active market.  The lack of styling appeal is a real shame because once in the car your expectations are turned on their head.  The inside benefits from Jaguars pride in being the premium UK carmaker and there looks to have been no corner cut.  Seats are supportive and comfortable, with nice fabric and good poise.  The levels of leg and headroom are good in the front but pretty limited in the back.  If you want four adults to travel in comfort you’ll all have to work at it. 

The S-type was originally launched with either 3.0L V6 or 4.0L V8 (tough choice), both offer decent performance with vital stats of 7.3 seconds and 146 mph, and 6.6 and 150 mph.  Neither have proven themselves especially frugal with economy figures of 27 mpg and a punishing 23 mpg respectively.  Both models offer smooth easy miles and an effortless drive.  The range grew in 2002 to add the 2.5 unit which is a little more pedestrian and still the wrong side of 30 mpg fuel efficiency (29 mpg).  The real hidden gem in the range is the 2.7L diesel which returns 41 mpg and offers 8.1 seconds and 140mph as it’s credentials.  The twin turbos really give the oil burner a great spread of power across the rev range and make driving it an easy pleasure.

The S-Type is a rear wheel drive motor and is offers superb, natural handling.  The suspension is set up to offer an excellent blend of comfort and control and it does both with aplomb.  Sport and supercharged ‘R’ versions are stiffer and have better body control, although this is at the cost of comfort. CATS active suspension is optional across the range (standard on the R) and gives better composure in corners but the standard car is poised and controlled.

The S-Type is a real choice in the executive car market, it’s got a very English personality and gives a real luxury feel.  If you can get past the classic styling you’ll find a thoroughly modern and capable car, well priced too.

Leave a comment

Type into the box below