Jaguar S-Type 2002 Review

Jaguar won't like us telling you this. Jaguar's Australian importer, Inchcape Motors, is understandably protective of the Jaguar brand, guarding the venerable British marque's reputation jealously. But what I'm about to tell you really happened. And it happened to us, on the launch of the new for 2002, facelifted Jaguar S-Type saloon.

See, our car's fuel tank ruptured. Fuel gushed from under our S-Type (yes, gushed), splashing onto the road, and onto the rear tyres of the 3.0-litre Jaguar S-Type saloon we were driving. Which explains why the S-Type's rear suddenly stepped out of line, snapping viciously sideways as we negotiated that last roundabout.

We caught the slide, settled the car down and proceeded through, thinking we'd simply hit an unseen wet/mud patch on an otherwise dry Queensland road, until the good Samaritan behind us in the late model Commodore honked and flashed at us to pull over. As soon as we opened the door, we smelt the petrol fumes...

Jaguar's PR machine swung into action, taking charge of the situation and dispersing those motoring journalists already on the scene - it was a new car launch after all. Jaguar staff later revealed that a fuel hose had received a hefty knock earlier in the day, right where it connected with the fuel tank. During the day's drive program it had worked loose, dislodging as we entered the roundabout.

Thankfully we didn't lose control, didn't crash, didn't catch fire, and no-one got hurt. But just twenty minutes earlier we'd been winding our way down a tree-lined, mountain road at around 100km/h...

So, does that mean you shouldn't buy a Jaguar? Are Jaguars unreliable, poorly built? Are they... dangerous? No, far from it. But it is a reminder that things can go wrong with even the world's best cars, whether by accident, or because of inadequate undercar protection, or a forgotten locking-nut, or whatever...

Originally launched three years ago, this is the first major facelift for Jaguar's S-Type saloon ahead of an all-new model in 2005/6. Three new engines, new six-speed automatic gearbox, major suspension changes, interior revamp - about the only thing that didn't change dramatically is the cat's skin.

So, while only the hard-core Jaguar fan will be able to pick the new model from the outside - chrome detailing on side windows and a relocated Jaguar 'growler' badge on the bonnet are the only changes - Jaguar's hoping its boosted lineup will attract plenty of new buyers.

First new S-Type off the rank is the 'entry-level' 2.5-litre V6, priced at $85,500 (when launched 06/02). Equipment levels are generous, and performance from the 150kiloWatt, 250Newton-metre V6 is adequate at best. The new S-Type may be 20-50kg lighter than the car it replaces, but 1620kg is still a lot of weight for a 2.5-litre engine to move.

All S-Types get the new ZF six-speed automatic transmission, first launched in Australia on the BMW 7 Series luxury sedan, and probably headed for the new 5 Series, due mid-2003 - and an S-Type competitor. Until then, however, it is a significant advantage for Jaguar over the other medium-luxury contenders.

The S-Type 3.0-litre models are expected to command the bulk of the sales attention, and are offered in two trim levels, Sport ($101,500) and SE ($97,500). As the name suggests, the 37kg lighter Sport forgoes a few luxury items in favour of a sports suspension and tyre package, and sports seats and steering wheel inside.

It's a similar story for the S-Type 4.2 V8 models, also available in Sport and SE trim, both priced at $112,000 at launch. This engine is essentially the old 4.0-litre block, which has been stroked out to 4.2 litres. Changes to the compression ratio, combustion system, intake manifold and the addition of Jaguar's latest Variable Cam Phasing have improved overall power and torque outputs by around 8 percent.

The scene stealer of the S-Type range has to be the $162,000 S-Type R, with a supercharged V8 beating proudly, and loudly, under its bonnet. Very much the subtle sledgehammer, the S-Type R is only evident from its mesh grille, tinted light covers, subdued rear spoiler and ultra-low profile 18in wheels and tyres.

Kick the S-Type R into life, however, and a massive 298kiloWatts of power and 553Newton-metres of torque will haul its 1800kg bulk from rest to 100km/h in just 5.6 seconds, topping out at a governed 250km/h.

It is in the 'R' model that the advantages of the extra cog in the new ZF six-speed automatic transmission is most evident, discernible to a lesser degree in the other S-Type models. The R accelerates strongly and effortlessly away from rest, never pausing for breath, and even gearchanges slide by with a minimum of fuss or interruption. High performance Brembo brakes are fitted to rein in the S-Type R when needed.

All models are well-equipped with climate control air-conditioning, electrically adjustable leather seats, cruise control, multi-function trip computer and six-stack CD player - along with the usual fare of electric windows/mirrors and remote central locking. Safety features include Jaguar's Dynamic Stability Control, anti-lock brakes with emergency brake assist, and driver/passenger/side airbags.

Significant revisions to the suspension across the entire range endow the S-Type with impressive levels of ride comfort, while still retaining that intrinsically Jaguar sportiness. Whether Sport or SE, all S-Types are capable of an enthralling jaunt along your favourite backroads, though you're likely to find more reward in a Sport model with its stiffer springs and dampers, and grippier low profile tyres.

The S-Type's steering inspires confidence with its immediacy and linear feel. Even with the R's whopping 400hp on tap, there's none of that nervousness usually felt from the rear end when you tilt the tiller at a corner. The S-Type tracks true through the corner and isolates the driver from bumps and irregularities while still keeping you informed about grip levels. On the limit the S-Type will push wide - the DSC coming into play and individually braking wheels to regain grip.

The R model is fitted with CATS (Computer Active Technology Suspension), a system that adjusts the spring and damper settings based on driver inputs. Put the boot in and the CATS stiffens the suspension, reducing bodyroll and enhancing handling at the expense of some ride comfort. Back off and the suspension returns to normal.

All S-Type models get the new electronic parking brake, which does away with the old 'lever-style' actuation in favour of a discreet metal tongue (switch) located behind the gear selector. The electronic park brake is applied whenever the key is removed from the ignition and releases when the gear selector is moved from park.

Another S-Type innovation is the electrically adjustable pedals. Connected to the driver's seat memory, the pedals are adjustable fore and aft to help the driver achieve a more comfortable driving position.

It is an impressive mid-life freshen-up for Jaguar's middle-man that addresses the areas that needed it most. More engines and more choices are bound to mean more sales, which could spell more trouble for BMW, Mercedes and Co.

A couple of technology trump cards - six-speed auto, adjustable pedals, electronic handbrake - will give the salesmen more ammunition while also being of tangible value to the buyer. And, fuel tank faux pas aside, the S-Type acquitted itself well on the launch, the overly intrusive engine noise from the V6 models perhaps the only real issue.

So, it's a conservative thumbs up for the new S-Type ahead of CarPoint's usual week-long road test (in July, 2002), when we'll put Jaguar's latest through our rigorous testing regimen. Freeway runs, peak hour processions, hauling shopping, comfortably cruising, one-up, five-up, fuel economy checks - just about everything a typical owner is likely to do... and then some.