Is there anything special about the ski racks that Jaguar's parts department sells for our X-Types (e.g., special clamp shape to not damage the chrome trim along the roof frame, for example)? Or would a universal rack from Thule or Yakima work just as well? The Jaguar rack is approx twice the price of universal racks from what I can tell.

For anyone who's installed a rack on their X, are there any models you'd recommend buying or staying away from? Thanks in advance.

 

If you have done a little research then you are aware that Thule makes the rack for the X-Type. Unfortunately they have a proprietary agreement with Jag that they will not sell these. I have a rack system and here is what i have done.
OEM Jaguar Cross bars ($180 @ dealer). and then use any Thule accesory that will fit the Aero bars from Thule.
I have tried the "universal" setup from Thule but it does not fit right and looks even worse. The OEM ones are worth the extra money on looks alone.
Also if you decide to do a wind deflector go with the "medium" one. I tried the one they recommend for the estates, figuring it would be close...... it about 2" too short on each side and it looks kinda funny. If you have any further specific questions PM me.

 

Jaguardoc, thanks for responding. Ihadn't come across anythingwhich indicatedthat Thule made the skirack. I'll follow your recommendation, and get the OEM Jaguar Cross Bars. It's great to hear than any Thule accessory will work with them. That seems like a good compromise. Thanks again!