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Jaguar X-Type D

D-day for jaguar

Should you happen to be walking through a Coventry graveyard in September, you're likely to spot a disturbance. That will be some Jaguar traditionalists turning in their graves at the sight of the manufacturer's first-ever diesel, the new X-Type D, cruising past.

By Owen Mildenhall

June 2003

  • Rating:
Should you happen to be walking through a Coventry graveyard in September, you're likely to spot a disturbance. That will be some Jaguar traditionalists turning in their graves at the sight of the manufacturer's first-ever diesel, the new X-Type D, cruising past.

The long-awaited oil-burner is critically important, with diesels making up a third of the UK small premium segment and 60 per cent in Europe. But the firm has set itself the task of offering all the benefits of diesel power without losing that essential Jaguar feeling.

It turned to parent company Ford for a hand, and borrowed the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder TDCi from the Mondeo. With 128bhp and 330Nm of torque, the X-Type's power figures are identical to the Ford, but the Jag has a bespoke intercooler and different engine mapping to increase refinement and give a smoother power delivery. Extra soundproofing has also been added.

As you turn the key, first impressions are fairly positive. Tickover is gentle and there's no vibration to be felt through the steering, clutch or gearstick. Once on the move, the engine is even quieter, and at cruising speeds it is impressively refined.

The X-Type does not feel super-quick in low gears and takes time to pick up under hard acceleration. But it hits 60mph in 9.5 seconds - nearly half a second quicker than the Mondeo - and goes on to 125mph, putting it in the same ball park as its German rivals.

When it comes to mid-range performance, the X-Type is strong, with power building from 2,500rpm and staying constant all the way up to 4,500rpm. Jaguar's engineers have been successful in their aim to make the power delivery smooth: it's linear through the gears with plenty of torque available for smooth overtaking.

Of more importance to buyers are the economy figures, and again the Jag impresses. An average of 50.3mpg isn't quite top of its class, being beaten by the Audi A4 TDI and BMW 320d, but it's more frugal than Mercedes' C200CDI. Businessmen have more reason to rejoice - low emissions of 149g/km mean the Jag falls in the 18 per cent company car tax band.

In common with the 2.0 petrol version, the X-Type D drives through the front wheels and has the same precise five-speed manual, albeit with different ratios. Weighing only 12kg more and with the help of reworked suspension, having an oil-burner under the bonnet has not spoiled the ride or handling.

Trim levels reflect the existing range too, with Classic, SE and Sport specs, although, disappointingly, there will be no automatic option. But it's not only the engine which is economical - with prices starting at ΂£19,995, the X-Type D looks good value, too.

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FIRST OPINION

    It may use an engine from a Mondeo, but with the Jaguar touch having been applied to the refinement and performance, the X-Type D makes a good case for itself. With its competitive price, low emissions and good economy, the X-type D is a fine first attempt at an oil-burner.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Jaguar's first-ever diesel goes on sale in September
    Expected to account for half of all X-Type sales in UK
     
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