BETTER late than never that Jaguar has embraced the fastest growing type of engines in the executuve sector today.
The S-Type should have had a diesel from launch in the late-90s, but Jaguar completely misjudged the market and sales have suffered until now.
The deal to jointly develop a range of diesel engines with the acknowledged experts, PSA, has meant that at last a really powerful diesel has become available for the sporting Jaguar marque.
Drivers who expect Jaguar to deliver class leading refinement and performance have a new reason to buy the fast cats - for now they have the cream of economy motoring as well.
The V6 engines are highly sophisticated with bags of punch inmid-range and strong refinement at the top end as well.
The power comes immediately and quickly but also silently and strongly, so you can enjoy in-town and cross country journeys in equal measure.
Match the engine's refinement with the six-speed manual or automatic transmission and you have a very sophisticated package capable of delivering rapid acceleration and remarkable economy hand in glove.
The powertrain is complemented by steering and braking systems which impart tremendous feel, precision and power so the driver is always in control and knows how the car is responding. Grip and handling are excellent and what you would expect of a Jaguar.
It is all fitted into a chassis which somehow manages to combine sportiness with suppleness, composure with comfort and never seems to be wrong-footed by a pothole.
Large and comfortable seats help. There is a lot of room in the front and even if legroom is a little short behind, the seats are comfortable and very supporting.
The bootspace is not class leading but it's useful and easy to load even if the opening is on the small side for some larger items.
Drivers will appreciate the way the car seems to wrap itself around you with the major and minor controls immediately to hand, well marked and with very clear instruments ahead. Heating and ventilation is also straightforward and effective, backed by powered windows.
Noise levels are low, the most noticeable being the road rumbles, with engine, transmission and wind noise being moderate, even when the S-Type is given its head.
Visibility is good in most situations, although the small back window is a little restricting, but the bright headlights and good wipers give excellent sight to the front in bad conditions.
It is no surprise that the smaller petrol engine has bitten the dust because this diesel is extremely good, giving nothing away in terms of performance but bringing a lot of economy at a time when motoring costs are soaring.
Jaguar has a diesel in the smaller X-Type and will soon be fitting one to the XJ, but I think it is in this S-Type where diesel power will really show that the marque has come of age.
FAST FACTS
Jaguar S-Type 2.7 V6 D S
Price: £30,395
Mechanical: 206bhp, 2,720cc, 6cyl diesel engine driving rear wheeels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 143mph
0-62mph: 8.5 secs
Combined mpg: 40
Insurance group: 14
CO2 emissions: 189g/km
BiK rating: 27%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 6yrs anti-rust, 3yrs paint