The Jaguar X-Type is probably the most commonly sighted Jaguar cruising South African roads. This entry-level luxury Jag first made its appearance in 2001, and will soon receive a fresh facelift. The face lifted version will go on sale in South Africa in April 2Available in three derivatives, the new X-Type, according to Jaguar, “retains all the original car’s strengths, and adds some new ones of its own.” The most significant change Jaguar made is mating the 2,2-litre diesel unit to a six-speed automatic transmission and the one-touch control of Jaguar Sequential Shift. This four-cylinder 2,2-litre unit is also available with a six-speed manual transmission. The automatic version delivers 107 kW at 3 500 r/min, while the manual offers 114 kW. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h for the automatic and manual can be achieved in 9,9- and 8,9 seconds respectively. Top speeds for this variant reach 208 km/h for the automatic and 220 km/h for the manual.
Other engines in the X-Type line-up are the six-valve 2,0-litre and the 3,0-litre petrol variants. Maximum power for the 2,0-litre is 115 kW at 6 800 r/min, and torque stands at 196 N.m at 4 100 r/min. This model can complete the zero to 100 km/h sprint in 10,8 seconds and can go on to reach a top speed of 205 km/h. The 3,0-litre is the flagship model of the range and has a power output of 169 kW at 6 800 r/min and torque of 279 N.m at 3 000 r/min. This model requires 7,5 seconds to go from standstill to 100 km/h, and the top speed is 230 km/h. Both engines are mated with a five-speed automatic.
The new car’s exterior has undergone a couple of stylistic changes that freshen up the design of the outgoing model. The most noticeable tweaks are a single-piece radiator grill that takes a cue from the upcoming XF sedan, and revised front and rear bumpers.
There are a number of subtle interior changes to the X-Type. According to Jaguar, there is a wider range of trim and equipment to “further emphasise its luxury car credentials.” Luggage capacity for all models is 452 dm3.
It can be assumed that the extensive list of specifications available in the current model will be available in the newJaguar X-Type – plus much more. The specifications include climate control, sound system, fuel consumption readout, six airbags, 17-inch alloy wheels, adjustable centre armrest with dual storage compartments and dual drinks holder between the seats.
The X-Type will be available in an Estate and a saloon version. The pricing of the new Jaguar X-Type will be released closer to the vehicle’s local launch.
