2006 Jaguar S-Type in Chattanooga, TN - $6,995

Jaguar is getting a head start on the 2005 model year with the introduction of the 2005 S-Type sedan. In another example of continuous improvement at the British nameplate, the rear-drive S-Type receives a number of styling enhancements, equipment additions and a pricing realignment for the new model year.

Originally introduced in the United States during the 1999 model year, the S-Type sedan underwent a major redesign in 2003. Over 70 percent of the S-Type sedan was new as a result. For 2005, the Jaguar S-Type sedan is available in three models -- S-Type 3.0 V6, S-Type 4.2 V8 and S-Type R 4.2 V8 Supercharged. While the ZF six-speed automatic gearbox is standard for all three engines, the five-speed manual transmission, previously available as a no cost option with the 3.0L V6 engine, is no longer offered.

The midsize Jaguar sedan received a subtle, yet comprehensive exterior sheetmetal redesign from nose to tail. A new, crisper front-end design is combined with a bolder, more athletic rear to give the Jaguar a cleaner, leaner and more muscular look. To improve weight distribution and handling, the steel hood was replaced by a lightweight aluminum hood. An added benefit of the re-engineered body is that now panel fits are tighter and closer -- emphasizing the sedan's high build quality.

The automaker is introducing a special VDP Edition package -- designed to take S-Type to a new level of luxury. Available on the 4.2 V8, the VDP Edition features premium leather upholstery with contrast piping, deep-pile footwell rugs, heated 16-way driver's seat, heated, 12-way front passenger seat, rich California burl walnut veneers for the trim and an electric rear sunblind. In addition, the VDP will include unique 17-inch multi-spoke "Aurora" alloy wheels, chrome door mirror caps and Xenon headlamps with auto-leveling.

For those consumers that desire a Jaguar without the wood veneer, the automaker offers a high-tech aluminum facia option in place of the traditional wood. This option will be part of the Sport package for all models. The standard S-Type interior also benefits from the 2005 model upgrades with the addition of a new Bronze Madrona veneer, new instrument panel and clearer displays.

On the road the S-Type always keeps its composure -- regardless of road surface, traffic demands, or driver inexperience. All S-Type models benefit from all-new front and revised rear suspensions plus a 10 percent stiffer body structure introduced in 2003 designed to deliver enhanced chassis dynamics. Retuned springs, dampers, bushings and anti-roll bars improve ride comfort and handling.

Inside the enhanced cabin, tasteful elegance in Jaguar tradition is evident. A greater emphasis on comfort and luxury was built-in. Stained bird's eye maple veneers are found on the full-width instrument panel, the gearshift surround and the door casings. Finely crafted leather surfaces yield comfortable seating throughout the cabin. A redesigned center console houses a seven inch wide screen LCD touch-screen display as an option.

The full-width dashboard design promotes a more intimate personality while arranging for a more contemporary, information-intense atmosphere. New instruments with "racing green" dials and slender pointers reinforce the car's sporting feel, craftsmanship and quality. Entry/exit to the rear seat are good and the split fold-down seat back maximizes the utility of the S-Type's wide, but shallow trunk.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 114.5; overall length: 193.0; width: 71.6; height: 56.0 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.0L V-6 -- 235 hp at 6,800 rpm and 216 lbs/ft of torque at 4,100 rpm; 4.2L V-8 -- 294 hp at 6,000 rpm and 303 lbs/ft of torque at 4,100 rpm; 4.2L V8 Supercharged -- 390 hp at 6,100 rpm and 399 lbs/ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.

Transmission: ZF6HP26 six-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 3.0L -- 18 city/26 highway; 4.2L -- 18 city/28 highway; 4.2L Supercharged -- 17 city/24 highway. All three engines require the use of premium unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 14.1 cubic feet.

Safety features

Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, emergency brake assist, dynamic stability control, reverse park control, traction control, dual front airbags, front-seat mounted side-impact airbags, side curtain front and rear airbags, alarm system with engine immobilizer, security system, remote keyless entry, fog lamps and power automatic door locks. 4.2L adds rain-sensing windshield wipers and HomeLink garage door opener. S-Type R adds Xenon high intensity headlamps.

Optional security/safety equipment includes DVD-based navigation system and front park distance control.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile (includes free scheduled maintenance for the warranty period.)

Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Jaguar S-Type sedan is $44,895 for the 3.0, $51,995 for the 4.2 and $58,995 for the S-Type R. Pricing includes the destination charge.

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