THE classic trademark of Jaguar is generally associated with uncompromising luxury that is often priced well out of our reach for the average car buyer.
But it boasts so much more... believe me.
You might think that the obvious vehicle of choice for wintry conditions would be a gas-guzzling off-roader with all the trimmings.
However, snow and ice are no match for the Jaguar X-Type diesel estate.
The top-of-the-range Sovereign model comes complete with an outrageous number of luxurious features such as a delicate display of wood and leather trimmings, 10x10 way electrically-adjustable seats with two-stage heating and driver memory, an excellent sound system that can be controlled from the steering wheel and a sat nav system that is possibly the best I have used to date - not once did I have a row with that automated voice barking instructions at me.
The estate model offers an incredible amount of storage space with a host of other useful little compartments throughout the cabin.
In fairness, the X-Type is no newcomer to the scene, but what is new is the diesel engine with an automatic gearbox - a most welcome addition with ample power both in and around town and on the open roads too, plus a fuel gauge that dropped so slowly it had me tapping on the glass display in disbelief.
Safety specification is excellent with anti-lock brakes, dual-stage front airbags that assess the front passenger positions, whether seatbelts are being worn and the passenger's weight to deploy the correct level of protection, automatic headlamps and wipers, plus side-impact protection and plenty more.
All in all, the X-Type is a real pleasure to drive and despite being able to cope admirably with any driving challenge put in its path, it maintained that air of elegance and grace - even if it did look like it had been driven through a hedge backwards by the end of the week.
FAST FACTS
Jaguar X-Type Estate 2.2 Diesel Sovereign auto
Price: £31,688
Mechanical: 152bhp, 2,198cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 125mph
0-62mph: 10.3 secs
Combined mpg: 41
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 184g/km
BiK rating: 26%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage, 3yrs paint, 6yrs anti-rust