Which AWD ?
 

I'm shopping for an X-type, stick shift, 2003 to 2005, likely 2.5 but could be 3.0. I know there was a change in the AWD system, after 2003? Which is the wise choice, or is it just not a big deal? My focus would be on durability and cost of repair, not so much the sophistication of the system - don't really need it all that much where I live. Thanks in advance.

I would go for the 05 if I were you because most of the issues were worked out by then.

I have a 2004 X-Type 2.5 manual and it has been pretty reliable for me. The awd system is great and it has gotten me through winters in the NE without an issue. I love my car to death but if I was to do it again I would find a nice 3.0 manual, they are rare to come by BUT out there..

Keep up on the routine maintenance and you will be fine.

There's a nice thread here about 2.5 versus 3.0 from which I came away sort of ambivalent. I've driven only a 2.5 and thought it was nice. I figured I'd just go either way with the best car.

But I saw something to indicate that the earlier AWD system might be simplier or more reliable or something - which I would like. But it doesn't sound like people are having expensive trouble with the later system.

People have said that the 02,03 awd is better but I have yet to feel the difference. My 04 X is excellent in all types of bad weather. I have 56k on mine and tomorrow I am doing a drain and fill on the transfer case and diff. I did the trans earlier this year so now everything should be good for awhile.

Take care of your X and your X will take care of you.

:02 and 03 have better awd but are not as reliable as the 04+ so i would go for a later model. that said my 02 2.5 has nearly 100,000 miles and I've had no problems with the transfer case/transmission...::)....Knock on wood

I'm getting the impression it's just not that big a deal - maybe a little preference overall for a later car.

The difference in the AWD system isn't going to be a big deal for you in the sunny south. Best advice is to always go with the best equipped, latest model year you can afford. After that it's vehicle history, care and maintenance provided by the previous owner, etc. Or maybe that's first?
I specifically wanted a platinum on warm charcoal 3.0 Sport that had a great history. Found one in North Scottsdale...

Later model 3.0 manual shift...yikes, that's hard to find.

02 -03 is alot better my cousin works for jaguar ...he opens them up and see,s the damage he was the one who told me to get an 02 stick shift 2.5

he basically says as long as you dont use it as a drag car and change the fluid you should not have a problem
on the other hand you can do the same with the 04 and up and they will last you along time...just respect the car needs as in fluid, and you should be fine with either year

but i prefer the 02-03

Attachment 177725

Attachment 177726

this is the fluid in an average transfer case 200-300 ml of dark burnt fluid

Attachment 177727

clean fuid above

Attachment 177728

this is all you need

Attachment 177729

Attachment 177730

Very interesting, so you can topside it. How often do you change it? Do you remember where you got that pump - looks like a nice one.

They suggest it gets changed @ 60,000.. I just had mine done on Friday @ 56,000 and it was just dirty.

While talking with the shop owner he said not to launch the car hard or spin the tires. You stand the chance of destroying the clutch and damaging the transfer case. Its a Jaguar so its not meant to be drag raced or spin the tires for fun like a muscle car.