Second Hand SenseTHE JAGUAR S-TYPE was only introduced 11 years ago, but looking at the statistics relating to the is like shining a light on a distant era. The 3-litre petrol V6 that produces 240hp, or the 4-litre V8 with a whopping 281hp, were impressive then but are unlikely to attract much of a following now. Fuel costs, road tax, running costs and environmental considerations have forced big changes in attitudes and even the diesel version – a 2.7 V6 – is a fairly unattractive option in this sense.
It’s a pity, because the S-Type is one of the few cars in the executive saloon segment with character. After a period of sometimes unimpressive styling, Jaguar went back to the original 1960s S-Type for inspiration. The result is a car that evokes the past while blending with the present, but it looks like it was designed for an older generation, while others in the range appeal to the younger driver.
The S-Type is a fine car to drive. It is spacious in front, but the sloping rear roofline makes the rear seem quite confined. There is, though, that very distinct feeling of being in a car of quality and character.
Of course, you can have a similar experience with a Mercedes or a BMW, but Jaguar has long traded on an image of heritage and much about the car is designed to maximise that impression.
In today’s environment, bigger petrol engines are almost a total write-off, so the most practical choice is diesel.
Although fuel consumption is not bad, a 2.7 engine still feels excessive. It is a good engine with lots of performance on tap. Ride and handling are good too.
It has not been tested in the EuroNCAP crash test programme (a lot of very expensive cars are not) but there is a good level of standard equipment, including multiple airbags.
There have been some major recalls involving problems with the automatic gearbox and the diesel particulate filter, so be warned. Also, with Jaguar, a full service history is invaluable.
A 2006 diesel car with 29,000km on the clock is at one garage for €25,253. A 2007 with 56,00km is €26,812. Of all the cars featured recently, the S-Type probably poses the greatest challenge in terms of valuation in these changing times.
STAR RATING: 5/10
