JAGUAR X TYPE ESTATE

It seems strange, an estate version of the Jaguar, but this is no mere bolt on to a much loved saloon, but a fine piece of engineering that doesn't diminish the performance or pleasure of driving such a beautiful vehicle. As you can see the lines flow smoothly and even enhance that curved roofline as it tapers above the hatch. I know that hatch is a strange word to say in a Jaguar review, but it does have a rear door and quite a nice one at that. Actually it is a split affair which gives extra versatility. The key fob can be set, so that you can open the rear window remotely.

Otherwise this has the sleek looks of the X class with a discreet grille and front light array and a strongly defined waistline. Naturally there are alloy wheels and body coordinated bumpers.

Since this is an estate we had better talk about luggage space. Not an exciting discussion point normally, but this has split fold rear seats allowing for one, to three rear passengers to be accommodated in comfort. When these are folded down flat you get 1415 litres of cubic capacity. The luggage bay is covered by a retractable tonneau and there are optional cargo nets as well. There is an underfloor secure area which has two deep storage sections with a 12v power supply system so that you can discreetly charge your mobile phone or laptop computer.

The interior of the X-TYPE shows off the pedigree and quality is a key word here. The fasciahas a long section of wood running the width of the dashboard with the modern touch of the dials housed in pod.Traditional elements such as wood veneers and chrome blend with the electronic gadgetry such as the multi-function LCD screens, airbags and multi-speaker audio systems.

Dependant on the engine variant and trim level the cost will range from £22,165 to £31,165. This gives your wallet great flexibility.

Many avoid estate cars, but this is remarkable, in that at their first attempt Jaguar have created such a stunner, and this will deal with the golf clubs or of course the luggage for the grand tour of Europe! Of course you can just take it to pick up the kids or do the supermarket run. It looks elegant anywhere after all.

Prices (from £21,165 to £30,140) look competitive against the mainstream German manufacturers. Whats more the standard equipment count is a good deal higher. Its hard to grumble about this sort of value. Some may point to the fact that the front-wheel drive 2.

0-litre diesel models run on a variant of the Ford Mondeo platform, but then an Aston Martin Vanquish uses a pair of Mondeo engines and you wouldnt turn your nose up at one of those, would you?

Ive never been much of an estate car sort of person but the X-TYPE Estate could have me converted. For a start it looks better than the saloon, youd never know you were driving an estate when behind the wheel and youll love the practicality when you need to do some DIY shopping or go on a driving holiday.