2003 Jaguar S-Type SE review from UK and Ireland

4 distorted tyres.

Warped front discs.

The above issues were experienced straight off the forecourt.

The kit level of the car in relation to the price was outstanding. My car was the SE model with a few added extras. The car had, full leather and birds eye maple trim, sat nav, climate control, electric folding mirrors, auto head lamps, premium sound package (outstanding!) with multi-changer, electric dual memory seats, electric windows all round, cruise control and trip computer. I bought from a main dealer for £15,500 at a pop over 5 years old.

The first thing you notice when driving the S-Type (both 2.5 and 3.0) is the nicely tuned growl from the V6 up front. It's hushed just to the right level.

The 6 speed auto is smooth, never had any issues with the car 'dropping down' too early, or hunting for gears.

Fuel usage isn't too bad for a heavy 3.0 V6 (with auto). On long trips sat at around 75mph I managed a return of around 31mpg. Town driving between 22-28 and with a heavy foot 20.

General comfort was fantastic. Controls easy to use and reach. Even the "screen based" sat nav, stereo and heating controls were easy... and I'm not good with technology.

My experience of the dealer was poor. The issues with the car (highlighted above) were experienced from purchase. The car was returned to the dealer on the Monday after purchase on Friday due to 'distorted tyres'. These had apparently been checked as part of the pre-delivery inspection. After 3 months of battling I only managed to obtain 50% of the value of the tyres I had to get fitted, but I had to meet the dealer principal to obtain this.

Also had issues with brakes binding which started during the first day of motoring. I was first advised there was nothing wrong, but a full cleaning service was given to remove any dust/grease. Second visit I was advised they were clogged with carbon dust (figure). Third visit I was advised they were warped, but serviceable, and finally replaced FOC on the fourth visit as I dealt directly with the service manager. Final conclusion was they were "lipped" around the edge of the disc and catching on the pads.

In summary a lovely, lovely car. Reliability generally good (as I inherited my problems), running costs not too bad (even servicing wasn't too scary at £250). Sold the car after being felt let down by after sales team.