2003 Jaguar S-Type Review

Jaguar always has done a masterful job of blending luxury, sleek styling and high performance. None of the Ford-owned British automaker's new models better illustrates that than the 2003 S-Type 3.0 with a slick manual gearbox.

The $41,850 3.0 is the lowest- cost version of the three revamped, early 2003 mid-size S-Type sedans and is the top-selling S-Type model.

The new 3.0 has a 3-liter, 240-horsepower V-6 with the same horsepower of the 2002 model's engine. But the V-6 has been reworked to provide better response for U.S. low- to mid-range driving speeds--thanks to items such as an improved induction system. The engine even pulls smoothly from 30 mph in fifth gear to highway speeds if a driver isn't in the mood to do much shifting.

The 3.0 is the only S-Type offered with a manual transmission, although a six-speed automatic transmission that's standard on other S-Type models is a $1,380 option. Still, rival BMW offers mid-size models with a manual gearbox, so Jaguar figures it best follow suit.

Most Americans regard Jaguars more as luxury autos than sporty cars, so nearly all 3.0 models are ordered with the ultraefficient automatic transmission. But Jaguars always have been fun to drive, and the slick Getrag manual gearbox standard in the 3.0 provides more driving kicks and allows the 130-mph 3.0 to sprint to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The transmission has a direct fifth gear and 3.07:1 final drive ratio to enhance fuel economy, which is an estimated 18 mpg in the city and 26 on highways.

The hefty gearshift knob is easy to grab, but the transmission works with a rather long-throw clutch.

A downshift is needed from top to fourth gear for good 65-75 mph passing times. The quickest moves in fast, rather heavy expressway traffic call for third gear, although the engine registers a relaxed 2,500 rpm in fifth gear during 65-mph cruising.

The sharp-looking S-Type also comes as a mid-range $49,330 4.2 model with a 300-horsepower V-8--up from 281 in the previous model. The top-line S-Type is the sizzling new $61,755 R (March 18 AutoTimes), which has a supercharged V-8 that generates 400 horsepower. I tested the R in rural Spain, where all that horsepower can be more easily used than in the congested Chicago area.

All 2003 S-Type models have stronger construction and more luxury, refinement, performance and safety. An enhanced occupant protection system includes a front energy-absorbent seating system and new front and rear side-curtain air bags for head protection in side collisions.

The rear-drive S-Type has been one of Jaguar's most popular models since it was introduced in 1999. Fully 70 percent of the car has new content, although it keeps its fairly new predecessor's alluring styling. A revised grille and new outside mirrors are among the few visual changes.

The S-Type's redone, leather-trimmed interior has a new dashboard with a bird's eye maple veneer panel and a more integrated look. New instruments have "racing green'' dials and slender pointers. There also are new door panels and a new center console up front with a sliding front center armrest containing dual cupholders. The ignition key is on the dashboard, where it's easy to quickly reach.

However, the large front console makes the front-seat area seem rather tight, although two persons easily fit. The driver's seat needs to slide back a bit more for tall motorists, but the rear seat area is roomy.

The trunk is long and fairly deep. Split rear seatbacks fold forward to significantly enlarge the cargo area. But the trunk lid has manual hinges instead of more desirable hydraulic struts.

Mostly, Jaguar concentrated on making the 2003 S-Type more mechanically sophisticated with items such as the six-speed automatic, which is tailored to work seamlessly with the engine. Cars with even a five-speed automatic still are fairly unusual, because most cars have a four-speed automatic.

There also is a new front suspension and extensively revised rear suspension. The new anti-lock braking system has a panic assist feature for surer emergency stops. And electronic traction control and Dynamic Stability Control systems enhance roadability.

An unusual new feature is an electronic parking brake that replaces a conventional handbrake lever. The brake is applied automatically when the ignition key is removed and is released when the automatic transmission's gear selector is moved from the park position. With the manual gearbox, the brake is deactivated with a small switch.

An electronically adjusted pedal system is in a $1,500 Premium package for the 3.0 manual transmission model I recently tested. The pedals are used in conjunction with that package's owner pre-set "memory'' seat, steering wheel and exterior mirror adjustments to provide the optimum driving position.

My quiet test car also had the $2,000 Sport package, which contains such things as unusually supportive sport bucket seats, computer-controlled shock absorbers and larger wheels and tires. The car also had a $2,250 Communication option, with emergency messaging system and voice-activated telephone, audio system and climate controls.

The test model had fast, precise steering and agile moves. The rather soft brake pedal allowed progressive pedal action and short stopping distances. Jaguar always has prided itself on providing a smooth ride, and the 3.0 has a supple ride even with the Sport package's firmer "sport'' suspension.

The pavement-burning R is the sexiest new S-Type ride, but the 3.0 manual-transmission model is more affordable. In some ways, it's even more fun.


2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE 3.0

Price

$41,850

Likes

Lowest-cost S-Type. Manual gearbox enhances driving fun. Smooth styling. Superb roadability. Nice ride.

Dislikes

Oversized front console. Long-throw clutch. Manual trunk hinges.