I drove an X-Type prototype today. (m) (archive)

I live in Southern California and had the opportunity to drive a new Jaguar X-Type 3.0 Sport today back-to-back against a 2001 BMW 330Xi during a focus group.

I was called in to do one of those survey/drives for future cars.

The Jag had the 3.0 engine, sport suspension, and Pirelli tires (225/45-17). It was black on black with no chrome and nearly every option. 5-speed manual transmission.

The BMW had the 3.0 also and was red on tan and stripped for a BMW (not even the sunroof) - (The Continental tires were 205/60-17's). It also had the 5-speed manual tranny.

Overall, the Jag is nothing to write home about. It drove like a luxury Ford.

One major thing the Jag did better was handle. It could really turn a corner with minimal body roll (it had the sports suspension that really made a difference). The clutch on the Jag was also better (not as long and late to engage). On the other hand, the engine was raspy (almost overworked), and the brakes were soft. There was a ton of road noise too!

The BMW had a nicer interior, better engine, and better brakes.

The steering feel was nearly identical on both cars.

I don't think the Jag will steal sales from anyone who is looking for a 5-speed BMW.

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