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"Used Jaguar X-Type Overview And How To Buy At The Best Price!"
The Jaguar X-Type is a compact sedan or wagon with the classic "Jaguar" look ... but without the classic Jaguar price. This is an entry-level luxury Jag that's still relatively affordable, was produced for the 2002 - 2008 model years and came with all-wheel-drive, setting it apart from other competitors.
On the downside, it's more affordable for a reason. Originally based on Ford's European Mondeo model, the X-Type fell short of the competition in this crowded segment when it came to driving dynamics and interior refinement. It's not a bad car though ... "decent but not noteworthy" perhaps describes it better. It was aimed at a younger and more mainstream market that had previously been largely excluded from the Jaguar brand pizzaz.
Offered as a sedan only until the introduction of the Sportwagon for the 2005 model year, the X-Type was designed to bring to mind the classic looks and elegance of the Jaguar XJ sedan with its rectangular grille, distinctive lines, arched roof and hooded oval headlights.
The Jaguar X-Type was initially powered by either a 2.5-liter V6 engine that produced 194 horsepower or a 3.0-liter V6 good for 231 horsepower (later rated at 227-hp). The standard transmission was a 5-speed automatic, however, a 5-speed manual was an available option. Used Jaguar X-type shoppers should note that the 2.5 model was discontined after the 2005 model year. And all-wheel drive was standard throughout the entire production run for better traction in areas subject to inclement weather conditions.
Typical standard features on both the Sedan and Sportwagon include leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, full power accessories, 16-inch alloy wheels, a power driver seat, automatic climate control, cruise control, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags and a 6-speaker audio system.
In its last year of production, the standard feature list for the the sedan was expanded to include a 10-way power front seat, driver memory settings, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers and a rear center headrest. The Sportwagon only added the rear headrest as the other features already came standard, as did a 10-speaker stereo system, a moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and reverse parking assist.
There's also an X-Type VDP Edition that adds unique wheels, chrome mirror caps, an Alpine stereo system with a CD changer, 10-way power seats with contrasting piping, heated front seats, seat and mirror memory functions, burl walnut trim and rain-sensing wipers. Used X-Types can also be found with the optional Luxury package on the sedan which included the contrasting leather piping and walnut trim, as well as with other stand-alone options such as navigation, the premium Alpine sound system, satellite radio, 18-inch wheels and stability control.
The X-Type's interior room comfortably accommodates four adult passengers. The seating is comfortable and supportive all around, however, the sloping roof line tightens up rear headroom for taller passengers. Trunk capacity for the sedan is a strongpoint, coming in at a generous 16 cubic feet. Cargo capacity for the Sportwagon is a very useful 50 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded.
Overall, the Jaguar X-Type is a decent entry-level luxury sedan. While it may be a bit outclassed by its European competitors, it's cheaper, has a smooth highway ride, has all-wheel drive, a large trunk and, most importantly, classic Jaguar styling.
How To Get The Best Price On A Pre-Owned Jaguar X-Type:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used X-Type at the lowest price, even at wholesale.
ONE - Car Auctions:
To save the most, you can go to wholesale Open-To-The-Public Auto Auctions in your own geographic area. While this will take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed outstanding opportunities (often even below wholesale) for those who shop these events.
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. See the details in this Used Car Buying Guide. It's just amazing what happens to prices when you force dealers to fight among each other for your sale.
Also ...
If you're interested in a "Brand New" Jaguar, there are truly some outstanding deals to be had right now if you know how.
