Design

Commonly, station wagons look just like the sedans upon which they are based in front, receiving unique bodywork from the front doors back. The 2005 Jaguar X-Type 3.0 Sportwagon is no different in this regard.

Forward of the B-pillar, the X-Type 3.0 Sportwagon wears classic Jaguar looks that date to the 1968 XJ sedan. Quad headlights, a wide bifurcated grille, a fluted hood, a chrome "leaper" hood ornament, and side sculpting just below the beltline all make the X-Type 3.0 Sportwagon look more expensive than it is while simultaneously tying the car to the glory days of Jaguar design.

Every part past the B-pillar is new - about a third of the car. Here, large "afterburner effect" taillights and a wide tailgate blade finisher over the rear license plate are said to be examples of a new, emerging Jaguar design vocabulary. Wheels are a strong five-spoke "Cayman" design measuring 17 inches. Photos don't do the X-Type 3.0 Sportwagon justice - the car is much more appealing in person.

Inside, the cabin is decked out in standard X-Type fare. That means a wood-and-leather steering wheel, soft leather upholstery, Sapele wood veneers on the dash, and chrome detailing for extra sparkle.