The X-Type comes in two trim levels, each designated by the engine displacement. The entry level 2.5, at a base

Under the hood of my test car was a powerful yet extremely civilized 227-hp 3.0-liter V6 engine. (Photo: Jaguar Canada)

price of $41,195, features a 2.5-liter V6 engine producing 192 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission. A 5-speed automatic is also available. Other standard features include anti-lock brakes, leather seating surfaces, 120-watt CD audio, automatic climate control, eight-way power driver's seat, 16-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels and new Sapele wood veneer. My tester was the 3.0 model, boasting a powerful yet extremely civilized 3.0-liter V6. The 227 horsepower engine is mated to a five-speed automatic tranny, and I found its performance to be ideally suited to the luxury sedan's size. Smooth is an understatement, yet when you need the power, a step on the accelerator throws you back in your seat. The standard 3.0 model adds a number of items to the

Seventeen-inch alloy wheels, a one-touch power moonroof and a wood and leather wrapped steering wheel are just some of the extra features that are included in the 3.0-liter package. (Photo: Jaguar Canada)

2.5 package, including 17-inch alloy wheels, a one-touch power moonroof and a wood and leather wrapped steering wheel. The optional Sport package (available only on the 3.0) adds more features, including a sport-tuned suspension, sport seats, a 320-watt CD stereo and Xenon headlights. The X1 Premium Package adds an eight-way power passenger seat, rain sensing wipers and reverse park control. A 5-speed manual transmission can be added to the 3.0-liter model at no extra charge, but you'll need to pay more for the optional navigation system, 18-inch alloy wheel and performance tire package, and cold weather package, which includes a heated windshield, headlight washers and heated front seats. Incidentally, most competitors offer that last item as standard equipment in Canada.