Launched in 2001, the X-TYPE saloon was Jaguar’s first entry into the premium C/D segment. Codenamed X400, this all-wheel drive, V6 sports saloon maintained Jaguar core values of luxury with affordability, practicality and versatility, while broadening Jaguar’s appeal to an area below the larger saloons, and making Jaguar ownership accessible in the highly competitive premium compact saloon market.
The X-TYPE has been a key model in establishing other new directions for Jaguar. After the initial two V6 petrol engine choices, in 2.5 (not available for South Africa) and 3.0 litre capacities, and Traction-4 all-wheel drive as standard, the X-TYPE range expanded in 2003 to include a diesel-engined, front-wheel-drive model – both firsts for the Jaguar brand.
With its new 2.0 litre turbocharged diesel engine (not available for South Africa), this X-TYPE successfully opened up a new area of sales opportunity. In September 2005, the X-TYPE was improved again with a new 2.2 litre diesel with DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) technology, further reducing emissions while improving performance (DPF not fitted on South African derivatives).
The X-TYPE also became, in 2004, the first Jaguar model ever to offer a production Estate car variant. Doubling the number of X-TYPE derivatives available, the Estate offered practicality and style – and again attracted new customers, many of whom had previously not seen a Jaguar that met their particular needs.
By the time the 250,000th X-TYPE left the production line at Jaguar’s Halewood plant (a JD Power gold standard plant) in January 2005, the X-TYPE was beginning to make an impact in a number of new markets, including Turkey, Korea and Russia, while attracting a significant number of first-time Jaguar buyers.
The new X-TYPE makes its public debut in late 2007 and first customer deliveries will be made in March 2008. South African sales will commence in April 2008.