Managing Director for Jaguar Australia Danny Rezek said the X-TYPE represents a significant milestone in the history of Jaguar.

"The X-TYPE provides Jaguar with a four model line-up and is set to attract new customers to the Jaguar brand, particularly younger buyers who have previously thought that Jaguar is beyond their reach or not suitable for their modern lifestyles" Mr Rezek said.

"Style, performance and state-of-the-art technology have combined to produce a new entry into the premium car market and one that is set to make an impact in this competitive sector."

A new generation of Jaguar customers

The majority of X-TYPE buyers are expected to be new to the Jaguar marque, with notably different needs from traditional Jaguar customers. Many will be younger than previous Jaguar owners, typically +é-í+é-Ñthirty something+é-í+é-ª professionals, including some with young families, whose cars must fulfil a multitude of roles. At the same time, Jaguar is also expecting the X-TYPE to have strong appeal for a slightly older group; still leading active lives and now enjoying greater freedom as their children have left home. With its unique blend of style, practicality and affordability, X-TYPE satisfies all these requirements.

X-TYPE - Challenging perceptions of Jaguar

As Jaguar's first entrant in the fast-growing compact saloon segment, X-TYPE is pitched directly against such established competitors as the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C Class. Positioned below Jaguar's S-TYPE saloon range in both size and price, X-TYPE challenges existing perceptions of Jaguar. Appealing to a new generation of customers, X-TYPE exemplifies Jaguar's new performance spirit, offering a fresh contemporary expression of Jaguar values in a compact, stylish sports saloon.

Effortless, refined performance comes from V6 engines in either 2.5 litre or 3.0 litre form, both derived from the AJ-V6 power train already successfully proven in the larger S-TYPE saloon. X-TYPE also features Jaguar's Traction-4 all-wheel-drive system as standard for nimble and sporting driving dynamics, making it a car for driving enthusiasts.

Inside X-TYPE, traditional craftsmanship is complemented by technological innovation strengthening Jaguar's growing reputation at the forefront of the industry. X-TYPE's optional multimedia system is an industry-first and comprises a 7-inch(178mm) LCD touch-screen, providing finger-tip control of climate, audio and navigation system (where fitted) television tuner and telephone. This exceptionally high level of system integration is facilitated by fibre optics to provide fast, high quality data transfer.

Voice activation, a world-first for Jaguar when launched on S-TYPE earlier this year, can also be specified to provide voice control of audio, climate control and phone, as well as for the first time, the navigation system and TV tuner.

X-TYPE's practical strengths include generous space for occupants, an array of handy stowage areas and a spacious 452-litre boot. Luggage capacity can be increased by folding down the rear seat's optional 70/30 split backrest.

Class leading chassis dynamics, including all-wheel-drive as standard, provide a high degree of active safety. X-TYPE also has one of the most advanced and comprehensive passive safety packages on the market including, as standard, occupancy sensing systems, adaptive dual-stage frontal airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain bags, benefiting both front and rear occupants.

Comprehensive feature specification and value for money

All X-TYPE models maintain Jaguar's philosophy of combining performance, innovation, craftsmanship and luxury with outstanding value for money. At launch, four X-TYPE models are available; the 2.5 and 3.0 V6 Sport, and the 2.5 and 3.0 V6 Special Equipment (S.E.). The Sport model has a five-speed manual transmission as standard, with a fully electronic five-speed automatic transmission optional. While the SE models feature the automatic transmission only.

X-TYPE ownership begins with the 2.5 V6 Sport model, with a five-speed manual transmission and a comprehensive feature specification as standard, including:

Jaguar Traction-4 all-wheel-drive system
Anti-lock braking with electronic brake distribution
Speed sensitive, variable ratio power assisted steering
7" x 17" X-Sport alloy wheels
Eight-way electrically adjustable front seats
Automatic climate control
Comprehensive security system
Colour coded exterior
Sport interior with cloth/leather seats and grey stained maple veneer.
Sports suspension

The V6 SE is fitted as standard with a variety of luxury features including:
Leather seats
Cruise control
Trip computer with message centre
Multi-function steering wheel with audio controls
Traditional Jaguar chrome exterior trim and bird+é-í+é-ªs eye maple veneers.
The 2.5 S.E. features 6.5" x 16" X-10 alloy wheels while the 3.0 model features X-5 style wheels.

The V6 Sport is priced at $68,150 for the 2.5 litre engine and $77,950 for the 3.0 litre variant. The V6 SE. models start at $70,350 for the 2.5 litre engine, while the 3.0 litre engine variant is $84,450 +é-íV both models feature automatic transmission as standard.

Agile handling and refined ride

"The X-TYPE's nimble driving dynamics reward the enthusiast, as well as reassuring the everyday driver. The car+é-í+é-ªs outstanding combination of agility and refinement stems from a blend of advanced engineering and intuitive know-how, with each individual component having an influence on the ride and handling. Set to achieve the perfect balance we carried out a great deal of testing and fine-tuning. You could say it+é-í+é-ªs a little bit like making a fine wine - part science, part art."
MIKE CROSS, CHIEF ENGINEER, VEHICLE INTEGRITY

The X-TYPE features Jaguar's Traction-4 full-time all-wheel drive system for positive and sure-footed road holding in all conditions. Sixty percent of torque is directed to the rear wheels, reinforcing the sporting character of the new Jaguar saloon. A viscous coupling senses differences in speed between the front and rear wheels. If wheels slip is detected, torque is transferred via the viscous coupling to the front or rear wheels, providing optimum traction and stability.

Agile handling and superior ride are further enhanced by the X-TYPE's ultra-stiff body. The body structure's class-leading torsional stiffness - approximately 30 percent higher than the previous class leader delivers major benefits in terms of strength, durability, robustness and refinement. The body provides an exceptionally rigid basis for the precisely tuned suspension, including the new, fully independent torsion control link system at the rear, which confers a high degree of inherent stability. Even tauter and more responsive handling is available on the 2.5 and 3.0 V6 Sport, with its unique spring, damper and anti-roll bar settings. The car's advanced, four-channel anti-lock braking system includes electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) for improved control and stability in adverse conditions, while optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) enhances vehicle stability and control still further.

Choice of V6 engines

The X-TYPE's 24-valve, four-cam 2.5 litre and 3.0 litre AJ-V6 engines are derived from the S-TYPE's proven AJ-V6 powertrain. With advanced features such as continuously variable cam phasing and a state-of-the-art, 32-bit engine management system, both engines deliver spirited, effortless performance, competitive fuel economy and low emissions. The 145kW (194 bhp) 2.5 litre and 172kW (231 bhp) 3.0 litre engines are highly efficient, delivering best-in-class specific power outputs. The engines also deliver excellent mid-range torque for effortless power delivery. On both 2.5 and 3.0 litre engines, over 90 per cent of peak torque is available between 2500 and 6000 rev/min.

The five-speed manual transmission is optimised to enhance the car's performance feel, while the electronic five-speed automatic option is switchable between normal and sport driving modes. Cruise control is standard on SE models and optional on Sport models.

Sculpted, purposeful exterior

The X-TYPE's stylish, contemporary design reflects the car's performance spirit, while sensuously sculpted forms combine with crisp detailing to give the car a sporty, purposeful stance and a strong Jaguar identity. Styling details include the characteristically sleek grille, elliptical, reflector technology headlamps with high-performance xenon gas discharge (optional) and twin tail pipes. Alloy wheels are standard across the range, including 17-inch wheels on the 2.5 and 3.0 V6 Sport derivatives.

Spacious, stylish interior

Like the exterior, the X-TYPE's cabin represents a contemporary expression of Jaguar values, blending quality and craftsmanship with leading-edge technology and the latest innovations in safety engineering.

Bird's-eye maple wood veneers and soft, luxurious trim materials convey a feeling of sporting luxury. Full leather trim is standard on the top-of-the-range 2.5 and 3.0 V6 SE models with leather and cloth standard on the Sport models. Across the range, attention to detail is reflected in the harmonious feel of controls and switches, as well as the overall quality of fit and finish.

There are two distinct interior trim themes, with the V6 Sport clearly distinguished by its grey-stained wood veneer, as well as part-leather sports seats and sports steering wheel with perforated leather trim.

Interior refinement further benefits from a comprehensive programme to minimise noise intrusion, aided by the car's inherently stiff body structure, and the slim pillars and commanding driving position give an excellent view of the road ahead.

Leading-edge multimedia system

The X-TYPE strengthens Jaguar's growing reputation at the forefront of in-car telematics and communications technologies. State-of-the-art systems available on the X-TYPE include a notable industry first for cars in this class - a 7-inch (178 mm) widescreen LCD touch-screen display, employing thin film transistor technology (TFT), providing finger-tip control of climate, audio and navigation systems, and (where fitted) television tuner and telephone. This exceptionally high level of integration is facilitated by fibre optics to provide fast, high-quality data transfer.

Voice activation, a world-first for Jaguar when launched on S-TYPE earlier this year, can also be specified, to provide voice control of primary functions of the audio, telephone and climate control systems, as well as for the first time - the satellite navigation system and TV tuner, where fitted. Maintaining Jaguar's leadership in this field, voice activation is available in German, Italian as well as English, including the Australian accent.

Roomy, practical, versatile

In addition to its roomy, ergonomically designed cabin, the X-TYPE boasts the largest boot ever on a Jaguar, with a capacity of 452 litres. Luggage capacity can be increased even further by folding down the rear seat's optional 70/30 split backrest and there is an optional ski hatch.

The cabin interior also provides an array of useful stowage facilities. For example, the doors have a handy tray up near the door handle, as well as a large main pocket. To tailor the car+é-í+é-ªs carrying capabilities to specific needs, customers can choose from a wide range of exterior and interior stowage accessories. This strong emphasis on practicality and flexibility reflects the fact that the X-TYPE is designed to suit the lifestyles of a wide variety of customers.

Standard features across the range include air conditioning, anti-trap electric windows, fully automatic climate control and a 120 Watt audio system. The extensive options list includes automatic headlamp activation, rain-sensing wipers, DVD-based satellite navigation, electrochromatic rear-view mirror, ultrasonic reversing aid, touch-screen multimedia system, dual-band and a fixed GSM phone.

Safe and secure

The X-TYPE's comprehensive safety package comprises a host of sophisticated systems, fitted as standard on all models. These include driver and front passenger occupancy sensing systems, twin dual-stage frontal airbags, side airbags for driver and front passenger, side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants, load-limiting and pre-tensioning front seat belts, three-point seat belts throughout and a collapsible brake pedal mechanism.

The rational choice

Achieving competitive ownership costs throughout the life of X-TYPE was a key consideration during the vehicle's development. The philosophy starts with the car's keen prices and high specifications, and continues to be reflected throughout the life of the vehicle in terms of maintenance costs and fuel economy.

The X-TYPE's comprehensive securing system includes engine immobiliser, perimeter alarm, deadlocking, two-stage unlocking and automatic drive-away locking.

In common with the rest of the Jaguar range, routine service intervals are at 16,000 km or 12 monthly intervals. Jaguar's commitment to after sales customer care ensures that the X-TYPE, like every new Jaguar, is backed by one of the most comprehensive warranties and service support packages in the industry, comprising:

3 year/100,000 km mechanical and electrical warranty
3 year/100,000km 24 hour Jaguar Roadside Assistance
3 year, unlimited kilometres paint surface warranty
6 year, unlimited kilometres corrosion (perforation) warranty

X-TYPE's comprehensive safety systems can also help to reduce ownership costs. An added benefit of the advanced occupancy sensing system is the avoidance of repair costs associated with unnecessary airbag deployments, particularly when the passenger seat is unoccupied and in low-impact collisions when the occupants are belted.

All these factors combine to make the X-TYPE not only a highly desirable and exciting car, but a rational choice for private and corporate customers alike.

For further information contact
Amanda Wheeler
Jaguar Australia
Phone: (02) 9828 9113