WHEN Jaguar went about plugging two gaping holes in its line up few could have realised it was creating a wonderful combination.
First came the X-Type diesel and that was followed by the X-Type estate.
Both serve sectors of the market that are booming, with diesel now accounting for almost half of new cars sold and more and more families opting for the practicality of estate cars.
So put the diesel engine in the estate and you are on to a winner.
This is just the tonic Jaguar needed as it sets out to make the legendary "fast cat" qualities of luxury British cars available to a wider audience.
Not only does the Jaguar estate look sensational - long and sleek just like a Jaguar should - it is also one of the best estates to drive.
There is a superb, positive feel to this car and although the diesel may not be the most advanced by today's standards - it is a development of a two-litre Ford engine once used in the Mondeo - it is a very capable performer.
Top speed is a claimed 123mph and the 0 to 60 time 10.3 seconds and there is simply masses of mid-range power provided via a five speed manual gearbox .
Plenty of sound insulation makes this estate as quiet and refined as any Jaguar should be - but this is a Jaguar that is capable of averaging around 50 to the gallon. Not the 20mpg or lower that big Jags of old would return.
Neither have any of the traditional Jaguar qualities been lost on the estate.
This top range SE model at £25,365 comes complete with sumptuous leather upholstery and wooden veneer - the hallmark of any Jaguar.
Yet having said that, it is a working estate as well.
Fold the rear seats flat and there is a capacious 50 cubic feet of space available. Even with the seats up there is more than enough cargo room to make this a very usable piece of kit.
It is also a very user-friendly vehicle - ideal for the average sized family with an active lifestyle and a like of the luxurious. It is a pleasure to drive and a pleasure to use.
To be ultra-critical there could be a bit more leg room in the back - but that is something that can be said about any Jaguar that is not of limousine proportions.
In this price range there is little to match this car as a blend of luxury, prestige and practicality. A "purrfect"example of an estate with a touch of class.
FAST FACTS
Jaguar X-Type 2.0D SE Estate
Price: £25,365
Mechanical: 128bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via a 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 123mph
0-62mph: 10.2 secs
Combined mpg: 48.7
Insurance group: 13
CO2 emissions: 154g/km
BiK rating: 19%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 6yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint