Exteriors, interiors revised

The big news for both cars are the subtle updates to their exteriors, though it is likely casual observers won't really notice them because the overall styling remains unchanged. Jaguar said it reworked the S-Type sheet metal for a cleaner and more "contemporary" look, but I had to park the car next to an earlier model to see the minor difference.

Officials also tightened up the small gaps between the body panels for a higher quality appearance, which is something I appreciate but find is absorbed by shoppers on a somewhat subliminal level. In the back, the '05 S-Type has a higher trunk lid, new bumper and tail lamps. Trunk space is 14.1 cubic feet.

The XK models have revised front bumpers with lower air intake, deeper rear bumper and tailpipe finishers, new side sills, and, on the XKRs, a new, larger rear spoiler. Additionally, the top XKR coupe and convertible get a new mesh grille. The material surrounding the windows is black now, rather than the previous gray.

Again, it takes some real car-to-car comparison to note these changes, but consumers might notice that the new black surround makes the rear window look larger, even though it's not.

Inside, the S-Type has a new instrument panel that provides easier-to-understand displays. And for the first time, the S-Type will be offered with an aluminum interior trim, rather than wood. This trend toward putting a metal inside isn't just in keeping with today's car trends. In 1963, Jaguar's XKE featured real aluminum trim inside.

In 2005, for the first time, the S-Type is available with a new, VDP package. VDP stands for Vanden Plas, and the package includes softer-grain leather than in other S-Types, with contrast seat piping for a surefire British look. VDP also includes walnut veneer trim, and heated, power front seats.

Fine ride

I don't quibble with the ride of these two good-looking autos.
The mid-size S-Type can feel cushioned, yet responsive, on the road. Jaguar officials refer to it as "sporty but luxurious." The test car with the "comfort" suspension seemed to roll easily over road bumps and kept them from riders while still conveying something of the road texture to the driver. This resulted in a confident feel at the steering wheel, even when directing the car through busy curves on two-lane roads.

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