| COMFORT AND EQUIPMENT RATING: |
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As you'd expect, the X-Type is pretty relaxed, but it loses points for the inadequacy of the standard seats (the Sport's seats are better) and the intrusiveness of the engines at high revs. The X-Type rides very well, however, its suspension providing much of the quiet suppleness bigger Jags deliver so well, though it's still some way off the effortless gliding of an XJ. The Sport suspension option does little to upset the ride, but provides better body control during hard driving. And happily, the estate is just as smooth-riding and composed as the saloon. In recent years, roominess and Jaguars have not been synonymous, but despite being small, the X-Type is reasonably well-packaged. Room is fairly generous up front, despite the bulk of the dash, and although hardly a sprawling zone, rear room is more than adequate. And so is the boot - the biggest Jaguar has offered, though that's not saying much. Cabin storage for odds and ends is good for small items, but there are no cup-holders. The estate offers more versatility, with class-leading space with the rear seats folded down. Like its competitors, though, it's more about style than outright load capacity.
For the 2006 model-year, equipment levels range from standard models with CD player, air con, front and side airbags, traction control and four electric windows; S models add 17-inch alloys, cloth/leather sports seats, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and a rear centre armrest, and Sport versions have the tauter suspension, 18-inch alloys, colour-coded exterior, a rear spoiler, sports steering wheel, reverse parking sensors and piano black interior detailing. SE spec adds full leather, sat nav, climate control, heated/electrically adjustable front seats, floor mats and trip computer, and Sport Premium gives voice-activated controls, xenon headlights, Bluetooth kit, carbonfibre trim, leather/alcantara upholstery and DSC with Emergency Brake Assist. Sovereign models have SE spec plus full leather seats with contrasting piping, walnut/leather trim, power-folding mirrors, voice-activated controls, a rear centre headrest, Bluetooth kit, floor mats and a premium sound system.
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