2006 Jaguar S-Type Model Update

Split Personality

Jaguar's midsize S-Type sedan continues to offer either quiet elegance or hair-raising performance, depending on which model you choose. But an overhaul is overdue.

Debuting in 1999 with curvaceous retro-inspired styling that harkened back to classic Mark II and S-Type "saloons" (as the British call four-door cars) from the 1950s and '60s, the Jaguar S-Type was the first all-new model added to the line after Ford Motors purchased the British automaker in 1989. The midsize S-Type is smaller and less expensive than Jaguar's XJ sedan and shares chassis and components with the Lincoln LS (and later, with the now-discontinued Ford Thunderbird).

While the car received favorable reviews and was popular upon debut, especially for its eye-catching design and interior comfort, it's been around in present form for six years now, and sales are caught in a downward spiral. As of July, S-Type sales had slipped 25 percent for the 2005 model year, though this remains ahead of the automaker's overall sales, which have fallen by over 30 percent during the same period. A complete redesign is anticipated, perhaps as soon as next year, and will no doubt bring attention back to the line. It's rumored that the coming version will be based on the larger XJ sedan's architecture.

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Meanwhile, the current S-Type received a number of upgrades last year, including slightly revised interior and exterior styling. For 2006, a reinforced frame improves ride and handling. Other updates include a new chrome grille insert, a revised braking system and redesigned standard 17-inch alloy wheels. Bluetooth wireless phone technology is offered this year for the first time, as is Sirius satellite radio and new, 17-inch alloy wheels. Indigo replaces Pacific Blue and Winter Gold replaces Topaz on the exterior-color palette.

The model range runs from soft-riding luxury car to fast and furious sports sedan. The well-equipped base 3.0 version is powered by a 235-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine that provides ample acceleration and is mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. A 300-hp 4.2-liter V8 powers the S-Type 4.2 and VDP models, which offer extra amenities along with the added muscle. All models have a four-wheel independent suspension that ensures a comfortable ride and secure handling.

The sporty R version gets a blazing 400-hp supercharged version of the 4.2-liter power plant, along with performance upgrades, such as more powerful Brembo four-wheel disc brakes, 18-inch wheels wrapped in performance tires and a performance-tuned suspension. The latter includes Jaguar's self-adjusting Computer Active Technology (CAT) that keeps the ride pliant and the handling precise. The R model also adds supportive sport seats, a leather-covered sport steering wheel, navigation system and bird's-eye maple wood interior trim, among other features.

A fuel-efficient 2.7-liter diesel-powered S-Type is available in Europe and gets as much as 41.5 miles per gallon, with low tailpipe emissions relative to previous diesels. While it's not likely to reach the U.S. anytime soon, with current gasoline prices, it's not out of the question, either.