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the second we set our gaze upon the exquisitely beautiful new Jaguar X-Type, we
beckoned it to us for a long session of heavy petting, or at least to take a closer
look. After all, with it looking for all the world like a tauter, leaner XJ8,
what's not to like about it? Our
closer look yielded favorable opinions of this, the cheapest kitten in Jaguar's
litter (base prices start just under $30K). In addition to its luscious styling,
the X-Type impressed us with its smooth powertrains and slick all-wheel drive
system (which is standard, by the way). A 2.5-liter V-6 (194-hp) is the base engine,
but stepping up to the 3.0-liter V-6 (231 hp) is a decision we wholeheartedly
endorse. Either engine is available with a manual transmission; this is sport
sedan, after all. The
interior couples the intimacy of a sport sedan with the features of a luxury sedan,
at least if you spend liberally on options. In other words, it's a very snug interior;
drivers of generous dimensions might find the X-Type to be too snug for long-term
comfort. But average folks will likely find the fit to be tight, but not claustrophobic.
Besides, when you see that broad expanse of beautifully stained wood on the dashboard,
and smell the scent of fine British leather, a lot can be forgiven. If you currently
own a Jaguar but are considering this more prudently sized offering, you'll feel
right at home, as nearly all the features that are available on Jaguar's more
expensive sedans are available on the X-Type as well, with controls arranged in
traditional Jaguar fashion. Perhaps
most telling of the X-Type's excellence is that it won RTM's
2002 Most Likely to Succeed Award. In other words, it does so much so well,
all while wrapped in that seductive sheetmetal, that our diverse assembly of judges
felt obligated to give it our most prestigious award. 'Nuf said.
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