[JAWS]

I had the opportunity to test drive the new Jag X Type yesterday. I am looking to get out of my '01 IS300 (loaded, ECU & TRAC Upgraded) because I just feel that it is so small for me. Having had a BMW already, I decided to compare the IS, Jag, and Volvo S60 T5 Auto.

Jag X Type- Great interior room. 3.0 is very strong. Looks are great, as are feature content. Some very noticable cheap Ford plastic in the interior. Handles good, not quite as sharp as BMW or IS300. Growls under hard acceleration. Overpriced lease. Still, it's a Jag.

IS300- Best handling in the group. Least comfortable. Harshest ride, but also most sporty ride. Feels slower than the Jac and Volvo, but more refined. Still my choice for a quick spin around curvy roads.

Volvo T5- Snap your head back acceleration from Turbo without terribly noticeable lag. Mild tourque stear. By far the most comfortable seats in this class. Softest suspension, still sporty, but being FWD it does not have the feel of my Lexus. Great interior, and, for a Volvo, attractive exterior. Easiest to live with, Ithink.

I think I will get the Volvo because it offers more room, great power, and for daily driving, a great ride. And they have great lease deals for a car that has a $40,000 MSRP.

I will miss my IS300 on the weekend jaunts with the wife, but with the Volvo S60 I will be able to take the kids as well. In comfort I might add.

Any thoughts or advice before a make the change??

 

[cdm2]

Jaws:

I am currently an IS300 owner. Prior to buying the car, I was leaning towards a S60. However, the T5 with automatic, Dolby pro logic surround system,CD,leather,sunroof..everyting load is about 40K..5 K over the IS300 out the door...If the T5 and IS300 were the same price with same options, I will pick T5 over IS. However, IS has the better value.
just my 2 cents

 

[SilverLex]

I also liked the T5, but it was juat a bit more than we wanted to spend, otherwise, we might have bought it - but I now that I've driven rear wheel drive, I'm not sure I could go back.