Smart buys: used JD Power winners - Executive

Jaguar S-type
Price range £5000-£35,000
Years 2002-2008
You'll like... Price; style
You won't... Running costs
Average economy 22.5mpg-40.0mpg
Insurance group 14-19
Road tax £210-£400

Ignore models built before 2002 - they don't drive as well, are less reliable and have a poorer-quality cabin than later cars.

The V6 models are a good bet, and a 2.5-litre engine was introduced in 2002 to complement the existing 3.0-litre. It's powerful enough and keeps running costs bearable.