Performance

The flagship model in the Jaguar range comes as a saloon only, with a choice of 4 different engines, a creamily smooth 3.0 V6 and 4.2 V8 petrol, a howling fast Supercharged 4.2 litre V8, or the pick of the bunch, and probably the best diesel engine on the planet today, the 2.7 TDV6 twin turbo diesel. It’s not hard to see why motoring journalists have heaped praise on this engine, as it is beautifully smooth, powerful and refined enough to sway even the most ardent diesel-phobic driver, of which your traditional Jaguar owner was probably one. Real world fuel consumption averages around the 40 mark for the diesel, the late twenties for the 3.0V6 petrol, whilst the supercharged 4.2 will drop into late teens if pushed hard, but doing this will produce a sonorous whine from the engine, and throws you forwards at a velocity verging on the ridiculous for such a refined car.

All models now come as auto, and, it isn’t hard to see why, when the 6 speed ZF gearbox does such a wonderful job with well judged, smooth changes, and is entirely in-keeping with the relaxed character of the Jaguar XJ.

Ride & Handling

Despite the classic looks, the XJ really produces when the road gets twistier. The All aluminium construction means a much lighter body, not only helping fuel economy and performance (never mind not rusting!) but really improving the handling feel of the car. Jaguar has really upped the ante with the blend of supple suspension yet sharp steering, which has seen it win many a group test with the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes S Class, out-handling the Beemer on the corners, yet out-wafting the Merc on the straights. But then Jaguar have always had the knack of producing beautifully fluid cars, and they have not disappointed here.

Reliability

Jaguar Cars have fought hard to attain a reputation for reliability, and now regularly wins awards for it. Having been around since late 2002, the XJ’s early bugs have long been sorted, the dealers are top notch too, and always rank highly among the JD Power and Top Gear ownership surveys, to give that all round luxury experience.

Specifications

Within the XJ range, there are 3 trim levels, the Executive, which is more basic, but still has a decent spec, if lacking the all important 7” touchscreen sat nav, which is standard on all higher models, as well as being a joy to use (take note BMW i-drive) and vital for residual values once resale time comes. The Sovereign gives you pretty much every toy you could wish for, whereas the Sport Premium eschews the traditional wood for Aluminium, huge 20” alloys and sports style interior. The optional long wheelbase is a much smaller price premium than any of the equivalent German manufacturers charge, and well worth it if you regularly chauffeur people around. The range topping XJR has huge performance from its supercharger, and the Daimler option can be yours if you are feeling ministerial, and like to have every toy going.

Living with the Car

There are a lot of good cars in this segment, and despite getting on a bit, the classic looks of the Jaguar mean it hasn’t really aged. It will always appeal to the more mature buyer, but once settled inside, it is a lovely place to be, and no one does wood and leather like Jaguar, it gives a much warmer ambience to the cabin than the German manufacturers, you’ve just got to like that sort of thing. Controls are sensibly laid out, and the driving position is comfortable, with the car settling into a lovely relaxed gait on the road, never trying to rush you, but with effortless performance should you need it.

Summary

The Jaguar XJ is a wonderful overall ownership proposition. The 2.7 TDV6 engine is the pick of the bunch, and if you enjoy the classically styled looks, you’ll love this car like no other. With an effortless waft, this car will propel you to your destination with real style. A Flagship in every sense, and winner of plenty of accolades from the motoring press, it’s no wonder it’s the car of choice for both Tony Blair and Prince Charles.

Learning Resources

For further information on the Jaguar range visit Jaguar UK: Jaguar UK Website.

For education and to learn about the history of Jaguar Cars see Wikipedia: Wikipedia History of Jaguar Cars.