Jaguar S-TYPE Review
Published: 10th April 2005
Jaguar S-TYPE
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control (TC) are standard across the S-TYPE range enhancing safety at the limits of grip and roadholding. It recognises the onset of instability either understeer or oversteer and takes measures to counteract it by reducing engine torque or selectively applying gentle braking to one or more wheels or a combination of both. This system also intervenes to prevent wheel spin in low grip conditions.
The variable-ratio power-assisted steering is very well weighted and is dependent on engine speed. At lower urban speeds; the assistance level is high for quick and easy manoeuvres. At motorway speeds the level of assistance is reduced
Powerful all-disc brakes with ABS (anti-lock brakes) and Emergency Brake Assist are standard across the new S-TYPE range.
Ease of Use
The Jaguar S-TYPE is a very intuitive car to drive. The cabin is
uncluttered, ergonomically laid out and the controls are easy to
use.
The S-TYPE is fitted with an electronic handbrake (parkbrake) which
is operated via a switch mounted on the centre console to the rear
of the gear selector. To engage it you pull the switch upwards and
release and to disengage with the engine running apply the foot
brake (automatic models) and press the parkbrake switch down. This
system also features 'drive away release' which allows the parkbrake
to release automatically as you drive away. We found this system
effortless to use.
We liked the fact that the Jaguar S-TYPE features drive away locking, which ensures that the vehicle is locked automatically when the car reaches speeds of 3 mph and above.
At night the S-TYPE sport model features automatic headlights with power wash which come on at dusk or when entering a tunnel or underground car park. We were surprised that Sport models did not feature Xenon headlights as standard although they are available as an option.
The front doors feature puddle lights which illuminate the ground at night when entering or exiting the car, we would like to have seen them in the rear doors as well. At night the interior of the cabin is illuminated by cleverly concealed LED's.
We were pleased to see front and rear parking sensors fitted to our test car - the Jaguar system works by giving you an audible indication, increasing in frequency of tone, the closer you get to unseen obstacles at parking speeds. The Jaguar park assist front and rear system was part of a convenience pack (£700 option) which also includes rain sensitive windscreen wipers.
Cruise control with multi-function steering wheel is is standard across the S-TYPE model range with Adaptive Cruise Control available as a £1,300 option.
The boot is long but fairly shallow, although the rear seats can be folded down on a 60:40 split, increasing the load carrying capacity from 400 to 810 litres. You will find that when Satellite Navigation has been specified the navigation DVD unit and the CD autochanger will be positioned in the boot. Under the boot floor you will find the optional full size spare wheel or standard space saver wheel. The boot can be remotely opened from the key fob. A ski hatch with bag is available as a £300 option (only available with leather seats).
On a practical level the Jaguar S-TYPE 2.7 V6 Diesel Sport model incorporates: 4 door bins, front map reading lights, rear cabin lights, trip computer, 2 seat back pockets, twin front cup holders. A lit glove compartment which annoyingly when open rested on the front passengers legs even with the seat fully back. A centre console box with armrest which incorporates a 12v power socket which enables you to charge your mobile telephone or laptop.
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