2003 Jaguar X-Type 2.1 V6 petrol

Summary:

Excellent car

Faults:

There are a few electrical hiccups. I am still impressed by the total reliability of the Jaguar, and its seamless auto box that sounds delightful when revved hard, as the V6 surges forward effortlessly.

The build quality is good but not perfect. My irritation is the cheap plastic air vents on top of the dash, and the means of cheap plastic poppers to hold them in place.... Which they do not.

It is a poor man's Jaguar, and I guess this is reflected in the poorer build quality, but it is a beautiful car to own, looks super and is a joy to drive.

It's comfortable,and very, very cheap to insure. I am paying £136 yearly fully comp. My Fiat Cinquecento costs me £245!

People oddly believe the X-Type is a Mondeo; it is not. It shares the suspension arms, the diff, the ZF auto box and that's it. But that's Ford... They are like GM cars, they are totally reliable, but are so mundane.

The best thing for Jaguar is the take over by Tata. There is no engineering interference, nor management control, and Jaguar is a lot healthier for it.

The new XJ is a dream, and the F-Type looks stunning. I love my X-Type, and will only sell it for another Jaguar.

General Comments:

Handles very well.

Not as sharp as it could be.

The brake pads wear quite quickly, but it's because all Jags have soft pads instead of the harder German pads... They wear, but do not give that annoying jerkiness.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd January, 2013

3rd Mar 2024, 22:58

Fantastically underrated cars!

2003 Jaguar X-Type SE 3.0

Summary:

What a Jag should be - you just want to keep driving it

Faults:

A breather pipe on the trans axial split.

Replaced under warranty.

Car has never failed.

General Comments:

Performance and comfort of the car is excellent for its class.

One year into ownership and so far is above expectations.

Service cost seemed high for what was done. However quality of service and staff were very good.

Fuel consumption is better than anticipated averaging approx 34 MPG.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th November, 2004

2003 Jaguar X-Type SE 3.0

Summary:

Little sporty limousine

Faults:

Built-in telephone was cutting off. Replaced under warranty.

General Comments:

Good performance and handling, excellent grip and traction. Automatic gearbox need getting used to - not as good performer as the rest of the car. Too small tank resulting in very short range.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th June, 2004

2003 Jaguar X-Type 3.0 SE 3.0

Summary:

A great car to drive let down by it's build quality and fuel consumption

Faults:

Prop shaft bearing failed after 100 miles.

Climate control does not regulate.

Dash board creaks.

Door panel on drives side rattles.

General Comments:

This car has a severe drinking problem, even on a run I am lucky to achieve of 20mpg.

Build quality is second rate, with many rattles and creaks.

Great ride / handling / steering.

If you buy one make sure you get the xenons as the standard headlights are rubbish.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 29th May, 2004

21st Jul 2006, 15:05

I've owned my X-type 3.0SE since new and it's now two and a half years old. I have had none of the problems that you mention, and the car is still as tight and rattle free as the day that I drove it out the showroom. I'm also getting an easy 30mpg minimum each week, going to 35-36 on a run provided I'm driving gently. Would have another without hesitation. The only (slight) fly in the ointment has been the servicing costs... over £900 for the most recent one (although it did need new discs & pads).

2003 Jaguar X-Type SE 2.1

Summary:

The baby Jag is a good looker and affordable

Faults:

None.

General Comments:

The car is often slated as just being a Ford Mondeo underneath. As the Mondeo itself is actually a good car is this really a valid criticism?

The build quality is very good.

The paint quality is very good.

The brakes are a bit spongy, as is the handling.

V6 engine is very smooth and refined and at cruising speeds the car is very quiet.

Fuel economy is fair at around 30 mpg.

Servicing costs are high - the first routine service was £260 (2004). Having said that, the cost of oil was very nearly £100 (inc VAT), and they charged for screen-wash, when I had filled it at home the day before! So beware and make sure you haggle with the service adviser. Oh, and take your own oil in, they cannot refuse to use it. BUT - check with the dealer first to make sure you get the correct one, the manufacturer information in the handbook is not clear on the subject.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th May, 2004

2003 Jaguar X-Type SE 3.0

Summary:

Drives like a dream, a bit too thirsty though

Faults:

Only just taken delivery, too early to say.

General Comments:

I am absolutely over the moon with my Jaguar, it handles wonderfully well.

I particularly like the quietness of the engine and the way it planted onto the road.

Despite being an automatic, it accelerates amazingly well.

However there are some cheap plastic about, some evidence of costs cutting in order to keep the price affordable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th May, 2003

2003 Jaguar X-Type Sport 2.5 V6

Summary:

Refinement that's affordable

Faults:

None.

General Comments:

Excellent car with stylish looks and pedigree you'd expect from Jaguar. The four wheel drive system that's employed on the car is superb. Comfort levels wonderful and the smell of that leather wow; build quality so far appears to be up to their usual standard, yes good.

The acceleration on the 2.5lt V6 engine is smooth and refined with an absolutely gorgeous note to the engine.

This is very early days of owning the Jag, but so far money well spent.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd May, 2003