9 Best & Worst Jaguar S-Type Years (With Facts & Stats)

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The Jaguar S-Type is a luxury large sedan that was offered from 2000 to 2008. 

It has an elegant interior, powerful engine options, and a timeless exterior design.

In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at all of the best and worst model years of the S-Type.

Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Jaguar S-Type Are:

The best Jaguar S-Type model years are 2008, 2007, 2006, 2004, and 2002. The worst model years of this model are 2000, 2001, 2003, and 2005. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Jaguar S-Type?

2008 Jaguar S-Type

The 2008 S-Type is the final model year ever produced and is our top pick. It offers a plush ride quality, strong acceleration, style, and a timeless design.

Compared to its predecessor, the 2008 model year introduces a variety of cosmetic tweaks, particularly larger standard wheels (18 to 19 inches, depending on trim level) and an updated front bumper design. 

There are 3 versions: the V6-powered 3.0, the V8-powered 4.2, and the supercharged R.

Notable safety features include its comprehensive alarm system and stability control (features that were not as common back in the day).

  • Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0

2008 Jaguar S-Type, Edmunds Review:

“I’ve now owned this car for several years and it’s my third Jag. This car is simply the best I’ve owned. The looks are still good and save for the easily scraped wheels, it still looks new. The reliability has always been a concern but its never broken down and never not started. The only trips to the shop have been for maintenance and to replace a NAV component (warranty)…”

2007 Jaguar S-Type

The 2007 S-Type was supposed to be the final model year but ended up being the penultimate model produced. It has lovely design details, several elegant interior appointments, and a high-torque V8 engine option.

New for this model year is an optional Luxury package for the top-spec S-Type R trim level, as well as a few interior revisions across the entire trim line.

Depending on the trim (and engine) you get, the EPA claims that you can expect anywhere between 17 to 20 MPG for combined city and highway driving, which is respectable for a large luxury sedan. 

  • Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0

2007 Jaguar S-Type, Edmunds Review:

“We have had this car for three years and it has been fabulous. We had two prior X-Types which were also excellent. It is a superb car around town and amazing – AMAZING – on the open road. The handling is superb, the 3 liter is remarkably robust, and it gets better mileage even than the X-Type. We have always liked the old S cars featured on the BBC ‘Inspector Morse’ series and this is an elegant modern rendition…”

2006 Jaguar S-Type

If you’re in search of the quintessential Jaguar, the 2006 model year embodies it perfectly. It boasts a finely furnished interior, robust driving capabilities, and a classic British design.

New for this model year is an upgraded braking system, a fashionable chrome-mesh grille insert, and an optional satellite radio and Bluetooth combo package.

Based on reviews online, these are the positive aspects of the model year:

  • Comfort
  • Appearance
  • Handling
  • Steering
  • Driving experience
  • Minimal road noise
  • Ride quality

It comes in 2 trim levels: 3.0 V6 and 4.2 V8.

To get the best out of your money, taking the better variant is what we would recommend as it allows for more custom options that could improve your vehicle’s interior, brake system, and upholstery. 

  • Edmunds: 4.9 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0

2006 Jaguar S-Type, Edmunds Review:

“Amazing power and handling for a car its size, the ability to get 29 mpg if you cruise on the highway. gorgeous good looks. Tight rear seat but that’s not why I bought it. Brakes and Tires go fairly fast but the driving experience is well worth it…”

2004 Jaguar S-Type

Despite showing its age, the venerable 2004 S-Type remains a timeless choice in the used car market.

It has loads of practical safety equipment, and introduces a 6-speed automatic transmission for the V6 version (but owners can still opt for the traditional 5-speed manual transmission).

An adaptive cruise control system is also added to optional features (which still holds up to this day).

Depending on the trim level you get, the EPA estimates around 18 to 20 MPG for combined city and highway driving. 

  • Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0

2004 Jaguar S-Type, Edmunds Review:

“At last, a car with truly unique style, excellent performance and a comparably reasonable price. After 12 years lounging in the top Lexus and Benz models (looking more generic every day) I couldn’t be more pleased…”

2002 Jaguar S-Type

The 2002 S-Type stands out for its reliability and long-lasting components.

It presents classic styling, a stable ride, and basic voice-activation technology.

New for this model year are 3 new color options: Aspen Green, Quartz, and Zircon. There is also a new shade, called Pacific Blue, available exclusively for the Sport trim. 

Enhancements have also been made to cupholders, seats, and compartments.

Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) also improves overall handling via the shock absorber settings that automatically adjust to cater to different road and highway conditions. 

  • Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0

2002 Jaguar S-Type, Edmunds Review:

“I got this car, did my homework on it and it was well worth the purchase. I had to put some bucks in it because I purchased used private, but overall the car is awesome – I love it. Fun to drive and having Caddy’s and BMW and Benz, I really think this car holds up to them and I feel better driving it because the look is nice, the style stands out.”

Consumer Scores For Best Jaguar S-Type Years

Model YearEdmunds
Consumer Rating		Kelley Blue Book
Consumer Rating
2008 Jaguar S-Type4.9 / 5.04.3 / 5.0
2007 Jaguar S-Type4.9 / 5.04.3 / 5.0
2006 Jaguar S-Type4.9 / 5.04.3 / 5.0
2004 Jaguar S-Type4.6 / 5.04.3 / 5.0
2002 Jaguar S-Type4.6 / 5.04.3 / 5.0

Related: How Long Do Jaguars Last? (12 Important Facts)

What Are The Worst Years For The Jaguar S-Type?

2000 Jaguar S-Type

The 2000 S-Type is the most problematic model year ever produced. We advise you to steer clear of this one.

Owners of this model experienced significant issues related to the transmission.

Primarily, the entire transmission would fail to operate effectively, preceded by a “gearshift box fault” warning indicator appearing. 

Symptoms of this issue include:

  • Stubborn shifting
  • Shifting delay
  • Vehicle stalling
  • Transmission lockup

Any of these symptoms can lead (and have led) to vehicular collisions or damage to property.

“While parked on a hill with the front of the vehicle facing upward, the transmission locked up completely when a shift from park to drive was attempted. The gear shift was fractured and the vehicle had to be towed to a service dealer who informed me that this was a common problem, and that it was a factory defect.” – CarProblemZoo.com

  • The 2000 Jaguar S-Type had a total of 5 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 182 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.

Common problems:

  • Fuel system failure
  • Gear shifting issues
  • Window regulator failure

2003 Jaguar S-Type

The 2003 S-Type logged the second-most complaints online, based on our research.

Unlike the previously discussed 2000 model year, this version had a lot of dangerous brake-related issues.

Owners reported issues with the electronic parking brake (EPB), dynamic stability control (DSC), and the brake pedal itself. 

“Vehicle parking brake randomly comes on without warning and causes the car to try lock wheels even when driving. Sometimes when first starting the parking brake is locked even if I don’t use it and will unlock when I start rolling. Vehicle has multiple misfire codes and restricted performance and loses power for no reason. Also dangerous when driving in traffic. Not sure what the issue is but has new plugs and coils and everything so believe electrical issue.” – CarProblemZoo.com

  • The 2003 Jaguar S-Type had a total of 1 complaint on CarComplaints.com and 147 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.

Common problems:

  • Sudden unintended acceleration
  • Brake issues

2005 Jaguar S-Type

The 2005 S-Type stood out as being notorious for issues with the various aspects of the fuel system.

The most frequently complained about issue is a defective fuel tank assembly, leading to various consequences and symptoms:

  • Gas odor inside cabin
  • Fuel leakage
  • Check engine warning light flashing

Unfortunately, despite the seemingly widespread reports regarding this matter, a lot were left to fend for themselves as certain dealers refused to cooperate (denial of warranty coverage).

“The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, a fuel odor emitted from the vehicle intermittently. The vehicle was taken to be inspected where it was diagnosed that the fuel tank was leaking and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure and stated that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA campaign…” – CarProblemZoo.com

  • The 2005 Jaguar S-Type had a total of 4 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 106 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.

Common problems:

  • Brakes locked up
  • Fuel tank leakage
  • Loss of power
  • Numerous warning indicators flashing

2001 Jaguar S-Type

While the 2001 S-Type was lucky enough to escape the various powertrain and transmission issues of its predecessor, a lot of owners reported issues with the suspension system.

Based on data available online, owners experienced recurring issues with the front suspension, specifically the lower ball joints.

This was discovered due to observing the following:

  • Loud abnormal noises
  • Alignment issues
  • Rough riding 

“The contact stated that the vehicle began making squeaking noises at various speeds while driving over a small bump or making a left or right turn. The steering wheel began shaking and the vehicle shifted from side to side. The mechanic stated that the lower ball joints were loose…” – CarProblemZoo.com

  • The 2001 Jaguar S-Type had a total of 102 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.

Common problems:

  • Suspension issues

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

Model YearComplaints
(CarComplaints.com)		Problems
(CarProblemZoo.com)		Recalls
(NHTSA.gov)
2008 Jaguar S-Type360
2007 Jaguar S-Type161
2006 Jaguar S-Type2252
2005 Jaguar S-Type41063
2004 Jaguar S-Type0394
2003 Jaguar S-Type11474
2002 Jaguar S-Type0302
2001 Jaguar S-Type01024
2000 Jaguar S-Type51824

What Problems Do Jaguar S-Type Have?

  • Fuel system failure
  • Gear shifting issues
  • Window regulator failure
  • Brakes locked up
  • Fuel tank leakage
  • Loss of power
  • Numerous warning indicators flashing
  • Sudden unintended acceleration
  • Suspension issues
  • Brake issues

What Are The Best Alternatives To The Jaguar S-Type?

Make & ModelScoreMSRPFuel Economy (MPG)
BMW 5-Series9.2$5,221 – $6,087City: 15 – 18 /Highway: 22 – 27
Infiniti M8.7$7,047 – $8,467City: 14 – 16 /Highway: 20 – 23
Jaguar S-Type7.0$6,213 – $18,808City: 15 – 17 /Highway: 22 – 26

Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com

Related: 9 Best & Worst Jaguar XJ Years (With Stats & Data)

References

Author:

  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...

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