Now available in sedan or estate forms, with a variety of engines running from the four cylinder turbo-diesel to a V6 3.0, the X-Type is a serious option to the 3-Series BMW.

Handling is nice; and excellent once the four wheel drive Sport V6 package is specified.

The inside from the handsomely-proportioned car is in line with Jaguar expectations; leather and wood, a classically-arranged fascia and one of the greatest satnav systems in the business.

The diesel variant feels just a little breathless at lower speeds, however , makes its once the car is cruising across the freeway.