Jaguar S-Type (99-07) - Review

Review by David Ross on 03 February 2009

It may not have a German badge on the bonnet, but the S-Type has plenty of strong qualities that make it a realistic alternative to models like the Mercedes E-Class. The rather dated image isn't one of them unfortunately and while it draws upon classic Jag styling cues to help set it apart, the S-Type is unlikely to appeal to younger drivers. There is a thunderous R version, powered by a supercharged V8 engine, but the Jaguar's real strength is long distance comfort. It's superbly refined and the ride quality is excellent, while it also handles sharply. The styling received a reworking in 2004 and the excellent V6 diesel engine was introduced.

3.5 out of 5

Other Jaguar reviews

3.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£25,563 - £51,113

Used price range:

£871 - £13,678

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Luxurious feel, cosseting ride, excellent diesel engine, storming R version

Dated image, cramped rear seats, interior lacks sophisticated feel, shallow boot

Driving & Performance

Performance

4 out of 5
"The S-Type was originally available with either a 240bhp 3.0-litre V6 or a rumbling 4.0-litre V8..."
Handling

4 out of 5
"The rear-wheel-drive S-Type lives up to traditional Jaguar standards for ride and handling – it’s a..."

Comfort

Comfort

4 out of 5
"Thanks to that wonderful ride, the S-Type is a perfect car for covering length motorway miles -..."
Practicality

2.5 out of 5
"The S-Type is only available as a four-door saloon, there's no estate version so practicality is..."
Equipment

3.5 out of 5
"Standard specification is impressive and includes alloy wheels, climate control, electric driver's..."
Behind the wheel

3.5 out of 5
"The S-Type's driving position is excellent, with a low slung seat and plenty of adjustment in the..."

Costs

Running costs

2 out of 5
"The S-Type isn't the cheapest executive saloon to run. There's only one diesel engine in the line-up..."
Green credentials

2 out of 5
"With a range of V6 and V8 petrol engines, it is little surprise that the S-Type is fairly polluting..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

4 out of 5
"Although the S-Type hasn’t been tested by Euro NCAP, it features plenty of the essential safety..."
Reliability

3.5 out of 5
"Early model suffered plenty of problems - these appear to have been largely remedied and a higher..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

3.5 out of 5
"Newly revised model has evolved into something very desirable indeed. You won't get much of a..."
Buying used

4 out of 5
"Very early models can be problematic so tread with caution and check the paperwork for signs of..."
Selling

3 out of 5
"The dodgy reputation of early cars won't do any favours when it comes to selling, but a full service..."