Jaguar X-Type

Impressions: Although it's Jaguar's least-expensive model, the X-Type carries one standard item no other cat (or its many competitors) has: all-wheel drive (Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz make AWD available as an extra-cost option). This confidence-inspiring feature splits the torque 40/60 front/rear under normal driving conditions, but shifts the power to the appropriate wheels when needed. The entry-level X-Type continues in sedan and Sport Wagon formats and with a 3.0-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic transmission. Despite its more diminutive size and lower price tag, the X-Type's standard-feature list is long and includes Connolly leather hides covering the seats, wood-trimmed interior pieces, power driver's seat and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. The wagon's base price is higher, but it includes a correspondingly higher level of equipment such as 17-inch wheels (16s for the sedan), backup sensor, premium sound system, rain-activated wipers and 10-way power adjustable front seats. You can add most of the features to the sedan by opting for the Luxury package that replaces last year's VDP (Vanden Plas), Premium and Sport packages. This year, stability control, which keeps the X-Type travelling where the driver intends, is standard equipment as is a moonroof for the sedan. Base price: $35,000 (including destination). Type: Four-door sedan; wagon Base engine (hp): 3.0-liter DOHC V6 (227) Optional engine: None Layout: Front-engine, all-wheel drive Transmission: Five-speed automatic Mileage (city/hwy): 18/28 Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; stability control Weight (lb.): 3,800 Basic warranty: 4/50,000 Roadside assistance: Yes Web: jaguarcars.com