I often hear that the s-type had a facelift in 2004 but I have only noticed a change to the boot. The front got a slight change in the radiator grille a year or so earlier but otherwise ,thankfully , did not seem to change.
Is there some subtle change that I cannot see?

 

The changes are subtle but they are noticeable. The grill is a bit more vertical on the 2005-and-up models, and the entire rear end is more prominent. Jaguar says the rear end was raised only an inch, but I can spot the newer rear ends from 200 yards away. The newer taillight assemblies look sleeker and more seamless. I think the 2005-and-up models look a bit more elegant and refined. But that's just me....

 

It was 2004 (part way through) here but I think 2005 over there.

Don't get Jeff started LOL

 

Yes... Much Changed.

OK, I won't go all out.... LOL

Yes, 2004.5 in Europe and 2005 in the US was the "body" refresh.

The following panels are different..

Hood (Bonnet)
Grill
Bumper; front
Rear Quarter Panel
Trunk Lid (Boot)
Rear Tail Lamps
Rear Bumper

The following panels did not change..

Front and Rear Doors
Front Fenders (Wings)
Lower Sill Panel
Roof
All Glass

See... I was short....

 

Wings - correct.

 

LOL.. I know Fenders are called Wings over in the UK... I'm not sure if they changed during the refresh.

EDIT: Looks like they didn't

 

I do not see why they would go to the trouble to make changes to the front which are barely noticable. But I am no fashion guru as I really prefer the 1960s mk2

 

Yea, I agree. To take a bit further... They redid the bumper, grill, and bonnet to freshen it yet had to make sure that they all lined up to the front wings and headlamp assemblies since those didn't change... It's like, why spend the money?

 

I am wondering now if the 'facelift' was really to make a bit more room for the diesel engine.

 

What an interesting thought. Facelift 2004.5MY, diesel 2004.75MY.