JAGUAR goes the extra mile with the new X-Type diesel.
The Big Cat could have rested on its laurels with the existing two-litre diesel model that, although a good performer, is perhaps a little short of oomph for those who like their acceleration to pin back ears.
Jaguar, sensing the need for a more powerful oil burner, introduced a 2.2-litre turbocharged version earlier this year.
It is a gem offering power and sophistication in equal measure.
The new engine – which takes the number of Jaguar X-Type diesel models to four – offers 152bhp and a 0-62mph time of under nine seconds via a smooth and precise six-speed gearshift.
The car has the ideal combination of effortless cruising power and rapid acceleration – particularly when travelling from 50-75mph.
This is accomplished in just 6.7 seconds putting it ahead of many bigger petrol-powered rivals.
Overtaking is a pleasure – while being passed by this beast is also one of life's highlights as the X-Type in full flow is a sight for sore eyes.
How do I know? Well someone overtook me in a brand new 2.2 litre diesel while I was out for a run.
The new engine offers good fuel economy with Jaguar claiming a range of 630 miles on a tank of fuel.
Personally I achieved slightly below the official 47mpg average fuel consumption figure as motorway and rush hour traffic took their toll.
But in the final analysis this is one Jag that's easy on the wallet.
There's also improved tax efficiency thanks to technology that ensures a clean-burning engine and low CO2 emissions.
The Jaguar doesn't put a foot wrong when it comes to ride and handling, benefiting from the fact that the chassis is based on the class-leading Ford Mondeo.
It absorbs bumps and humps like blotting paper and makes driving the car a relaxing pleasure helped by a tuned sports suspension gives the X-Type great balance.
The engine is so refined and quiet that the pressure is on the cabin to keep out wind and road noise, but the challenge is met with aplomb.
Wood and leather make their usual appearance in a Jaguar, but the X-Type interior is quite modern.
There's plenty of room for driver and passengers with a comfortable position behind the wheel easily achieved.
The rear seat easily accommodates three adults but headroom is a bit tight thanks to the sloping roofline. However this gives the car such a sleek look that personally I wouldn't count it as a negative.
The boot is large with a wide opening that makes loading it a cinch. There are also plenty of cubby holes around the cabin – useful for storing your odds and ends.
One quibble though is the lack of a foot rest next to the clutch pedal which is a puzzle as there is plenty of room for one.
This is one big cat that looks after its passengers with a host of safety features led by intelligent front airbags.
They consider not only the severity of a crash, but also the seat position and the weight of the passenger before inflating the airbag.
It's one of a number of clever ideas that give the baby of the range the right to carry the world famous Jaguar name.
FAST FACTS
Jaguar X-Type 2.2 Diesel Sport
Price: £22,995
Mechanical: 152bhp, 2,198cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 137mph
0-62mph: 8.9 secs
Combined mpg: 47.1
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 159g/km
BiK rating: 21%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 3yrs paint; 6yrs anti-rust