Jaguars have always had a unique smell -- something to do with the leather no doubt. If you've enjoyed this aroma you'll be disappointed, as the S-Type doesn't smell different from any other new luxury car. Nonetheless, it does have a unique character inside that largely separates it from its closest competitors. It starts with the dashboard that stretches across the width of the car rather than wrapping the driver in a cockpit-type environment. The lower center of the dash is arranged in a distinctive semi-circular panel; it is a bold design element that draws mixed reactions -- some love it, others don't.
This panel, which is finished in a smooth glossy metallic-looking finish, contains the automatic climate controls, sound system and optional navigational system display. The instrument pod contains just a fuel gauge and water temperature gauge besides the speedometer and tachometer. All told it is a pleasant design, but not as exotic as Jaguars of the past.
Jaguar interiors are known for their exquisite wood and leather and the S-Type delivers in this area. However, instead of using walnut, the veneers are crafted from maple that produces a much smoother look. Unfortunately, Jaguar did such a good job with it that, in some ways, it looks less like real wood than plastic imitation wood. Rest assured, it's real. Connolly leather is used on the surfaces of all seats and door panels. The steering wheel is made in a combination of matching wood and leather.
There is a decent amount of space for rear-seat passengers. Legroom is on par with other similar sized cars and is actually better than in the standard wheelbase XJ sedan. Trunk space is only average due to the curvy rear end. What's more Jaguar engineers have reverted to swan-neck hinges that intrude in the cargo space so that the trunk lid will pop up when opened. Apparently, owners of the XJ8 with the less intrusive four-link hinges complained about the lack of this pop-up feature. For greater trunk storage, the rear seats can be folded down in a 60/40 split.
We had the opportunity to try out both 3.0 and a 4.0 S-Type Jaguars. The 3.0-liter V6 engine was smooth and delivered adequate power, but it doesn't really qualify as a performance sedan. (Jaguar sells this version in Europe with a manual transmission, but the company does not plan to offer this in the US due to lack of demand: BMW offers a manual version of the 5-series in the US but only one in eight buyers opt for it.)
The 4.0-liter V8 engine offered far more spirited performance. The V8 engine has enough low-end torque to deliver brisk acceleration. Jaguar says the car will accelerate form 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, which is quite quick, though not quite as rapid as the BMW 540i.
The unique-to-Jaguar J-gate shifter has been retained in an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission. This lets the driver move the shift lever into a second gate where it can be shifted manually from gear to gear. It's not quite the same as a manual transmission, but it does give a sporting driver more control when driving briskly.
A drive along a twisty mountain road was delightful. The steering proved to be very precise. The steering provided good feel at speed, yet it remained light to the touch around town and in parking lots.
Handling is firm without being too harsh. Jaguar's S-Type is not as stiff as the BMW 540i. It is the type of car that inspires confidence for those who enjoy driving without being a chore for those who do not.