The 2008 model year will be the last for the
Jaguar S-Type. Its replacement, the sharper-edged, more contemporary-looking
XF, has arrived. So if the rounded, retro lines of the S-Type have oozed into your heart, this is your last chance to bring one home brand-new. You could buy another mid-size luxury sedan with similar performance, but you won't find another that looks anything like this. And that, really, is the point of any Jaguar: If you are charmed by its looks, then there is no alternative.
But even from a more objective point of view, we like the Jaguar S-Type. It's a comfortable car, it handles well, and it makes a statement when it pulls up to a five-star hotel. The base 3.0-liter V6 delivers responsive performance, thanks partly to the superb six-speed automatic transmission. Opt for the 4.2 model and you get thrilling performance from its powerful V8 engine. If that isn't enough, you can spring for the high-performance S-Type R, which boasts a supercharged engine, adaptive sports suspension, and bigger front brakes.
Jaguar is marking the S-Type's departure with some final styling changes. All 2008 S-Types will wear the more conspicuously racy three-scoop front bumper that formerly belonged exclusively to the super-performance S-Type R. Eighteen-inch wheels have also been made standard; and 19's are now optional on base V6 and V8 models, and standard on the R. Additionally, the final 750 S-Types produced will be specially equipped Satin Editions, with distinctive interior trim and exterior colors.
We'll miss the S-Type which, in its ten year life span improved in some way almost every year. Even when it was launched in 1999 we praised its beautiful exterior and rich interior, and enthused over its sporty handling. Jaguar re-engineered the S-Type for 2003, and again revamped its styling for 2005, when the wonderful ZF six-speed automatic transmission became standard across the range. Additional refinements arrived with the 2006 models: The premium-level 4.2 liter V8 was re-tuned just slightly to deliver a nicely even 300 and 400 horsepower in its naturally aspirated and supercharged forms, respectively. At the same time, both the base 3.0-liter V6 and the atmospheric V8 achieved ULEV emissions status. And a new Conti-Teves braking system promised even more stopping power. Last year, 2007, saw significant upgrades in standard equipment.