In order to keep up with the competition (and, maybe even surpass it), Jaguar has given its mid-sized sport sedan a facelift for the 2005 model year. The engine offerings will be the same as for 2004: a 235-bhp 3.0L V6, a 294-bhp 4.2L V8 and 390-bhp 4.2L supercharged V8. All three engines are mated to a ZF six-speed automatic gearbox.
The new S-Type will have an aluminum hood (steel on the 2004 models) with a more pronounced vee shape, a revised grille that is slightly lower and broader, a smoother, less bulky shaped front bumper, and twin headlights that are now slightly recessed.
The sedan's signature sideline has been lengthened and lowered, making it appear sleeker than its predecessor. In addition, the exterior panels were tightened up for an improved fit and finish.
The rear bumper has also been retouched--gone is the droopy rear end. The S-Type now sits on raised haunches, giving it a ready-to-pounce look.
Five new alloy wheel designs, in sizes up to 18 in., will be offered. The Sport option package features 18-in. rims, and the 3.0-liter model comes standard with 17s. The 2005 model's interior has also been updated. The new instrument layout features four aluminum ringed gauges (tach, speedo, water temp and fuel). The two large center rings--tach and speed) also house individual message centers, enabling the time, odometer, trip and warning info to be displayed concurrently. And, for the first time in a production Jaguar sedan, a new aluminum trim finish will be offered as a sport package option. There will also be new interior colors, including three new two-tone combinations, and trim levels: classic leather, perforated leather and R leather, and three wood veneers.
Revised and extended options will include Front Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Alert.
The sedan's underpinnings remain the same as for the 2004 models, with Jaguar's Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) being standard on the 4.2-liter V8 (both naturally aspirated and supercharged) models.
The new S-Types were revealed at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, held in Detroit at the beginning of the year, and will go on sale in the U.S. in May.