They say that our cars are increasingly our second homes. With the world getting smaller every day, we are expected to cover longer distances more regularly than ever before, which inevitably means spending more time in transit. For this reason a luxury car is often an absolute necessity for the modern executive – but choosing the best model can prove a real chore.
A used Jaguar S type saloon could be the answer to your needs. Designed with long distance travel in mind, these cars offer the ultimate in motorway comfort. With powerful engines to offer a smooth drive at speed but nippy manoeuvring in traffic, the S type meets every expectation, making it a realistic alternative to the Mercedes E class.
Of course, every car has its own characteristics, and if the S type had a personality it would almost certainly be TV show Ashes to Ashes lead, Gene Hunt. Endearingly retro, power happy and strong willed, but with a heart of pure gold, this is a car so of it s own time it is practically vintage... which in itself makes it a uniquely desirable purchase!
The S type has always offered a smooth ride, even with its original engine choices, the 240bhp 3.0 litre V6 or the growling 281bhp 4.0 litre V8. However, in 2002 the engine choice was broadened, with the addition of a 201bhp 2.5 litre option and an increase in the V8 to a 300bhp 4.2 litre. 2002 also saw the arrival of the super charged R model. With 400bhp and hitting 62mph in 5.3 seconds, this would doubtless be D.I. Hunt s engine of choice... However, we personally recommend the 2004 twin turbo 2.7 litre V6 diesel, a unique combination of economy and class that shows off Jaguar s refined handling and exquisite performance. This engine still hits 62mph in a very respectable 8.1 seconds, but offers returns at 40mpg. And in the current climate, economy is not to be discounted.
(If you are considering the V8 engines, it is worth noting that all the engines feature Jaguar s automatic transmission, with a five speed manual on petrol and a six speed on diesel available.)
Performance wise, the S type exceeds expectations, riding smoothly and handling sharply, scoring well on customer satisfaction surveys across the board. The R models offer exceptional body control, while CATS suspension is available throughout the range to improve the car s handling on corners. Not that it needs it – the standard models handle just fine without!
It is on the road that this car is most at home, making lengthy motorway journeys a doddle with it s superb quality interiors, ultra comfortable and supportive seats and top notch suspension. With little engine or road noise to disturb, it creates the perfect office from home environment for those important business calls you just have to make in transit, smoothing out bumpy roads so that you won t even notice when they hit. Most importantly perhaps, the model offers well placed twin cup holders, making breakfast on the go that little bit easier...
Overall, the S type is a capable and reliable drive, offering the traditional high standard Jaguar performance in a competitive sports saloon. For the retro stylish commuting exec, it is the ultimate home from home.