I've now driven both 3.0L (manual and auto) X-Types and I can say both are faster than my SVT. 0 to 60 speed is claimed 6.6s manual/7.1s auto. Speed is very deceptive in them however as the exhaust note, engine noise, wind noise, etc. are so quiet compared to the SVT. I had to catch myself several times when I glanced at the speedometer. The 2.5L is probably slightly slower than the SVT due to its slightly lower horsepower, and higher weight than the SVT due to the AWD system.
I'd say that they are priced correctly, however, they should have more standard features to compete with BMW or Audi. I can't understand how lumbar support is optional on a $40K car, nor can I understand why the automatic and manual 3L versions are the same price. HID lights should also be standard, as should a cd player.
I think Jaguar counted on selling a lot more of these, given their current lease and loan incentives. The price ends up being significantly lower than BMW's when that's taken into consideration.
A note on the wood - it may not look it but it's real. It's grey stained maple on the sport package machines. Not very nice however.
Given that I'd like AWD, and that I don't like the 330xi, it'll probably replace my SVT in a month or so.
Howell Cobb
99 SVT Contour, Toreador Red
