2007 Jaguar X-Type 3.0 gasoline
Summary:
Great car, but try to get a Jaguar certified warranty
Faults:
1. The transfer case was failing (detected by a rhythmic rubbing noise at low speeds, not any real drivability problem). It was just replaced yesterday under Jaguar dealer warranty for certified used cars. Actually, another Jaguar dealer certified the vehicle was A-OK when I purchased it just 3 weeks ago and included the certified warranty. Now the noise is gone, but the engine seems to be under greater load and to have some lag on acceleration and shifting, so I brought it back today. After driving it with me and checking it out on a lift, two Jaguar mechanics said it was fine, and might "loosen up" after a while. They also said I should try driving more aggressively, which can help the ECU to "learn" to respond faster to throttle input, something I have heard is actually true of modern cars such as my previous one, a Maxima. Since the difference is subtle, I have accepted this for the time being.
2. There is a buzzing noise from the electronic throttle-body valve audible from the driver's position when turning the key to ON and after starting. It's less noticeable at highway speeds, and seems to go away or fade after some minutes, perhaps when the engine reaches a warm temperature. The dealer service people checked into it, but said it was normal for this model. I did not insist it should be fixed or replaced, but wonder if mine is noisier than others.
3. The manual passenger seat is very difficult to move forward or backward, even sitting in it and exerting force with one's whole body (and of course, pulling up fully on the release lever).
4. The trunk latch does not engage fully unless the trunk is forcefully closed, almost slammed shut. The "door-open" warning light on the dash signals that it is not fully closed. The latch post inside has a plastic sleeve that has been damaged, possibly as a result of this. Dealer tried to adjust height of trunk lid by turning the adjustable rubber bumpers on both back corners, which may be related.
General Comments:
Despite the premature failure of the transfer case and the other minor concerns noted above, I like the car a lot for its ride, handling, power, all-wheel-drive (AWD) stability, and very good visibility. I recommend it provided you get the Jaguar certified warranty from a dealer for at least the first year past purchase date.
The all-wheel drive, fairly powerful (235-hp) 3.0 V-6 engine, controlled suspension, comfortable seats and strong brakes make the car a real pleasure to drive. It's also very beautiful, especially from the front angle or rear, although it has somewhat shortened profile for a car with the classic Jaguar lines.
The rear seat has limited knee-room for tall adults, but is adequate for children or adults of average height. The trunk is spacious for a car in this class. My model has rear parking sensors and heated seats, which work almost too well, but lacks garage-door openers or a CD changer.
A used, late-model (2005 or later) Jaguar X-Type could be a less-expensive alternative to a similar-year AWD Subaru Legacy, Volvo S60, Infiniti G35 or even M35 ("x" series) AWD model.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 11th January, 2012