We drive the luxury Jaguar XJ

Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 82%

The XJ has attracted more compliments and admiring looks during its time on loan to Auto Trader than any other model.

But it ain’t just a pretty face. This big cat beauty also boasts fantastic handling and a silky ride.

Web Editor Adrian Higgins tests the long wheelbase 2.7-litre diesel model.

Looks | Looks Inside | Practicality | Ride and Handling |Performance
Running Costs | Reliability | Safety | Equipment | X-Factor | Rivals

1. Looks

The fictional stars of hit TV show Life on Mars would have no problem recognising this model. Some think it’s time it moved on while others love the fact it’s one of the most easily recognised cars on the road – for all the right reasons. It certainly got plenty of admiring glances and comments during our week’s ownership, and we love the traditional styling, big cat grille, wide stance, side air intakes and twin exhaust. The latest model has emphasised the car’s sportiness but the changes have been tweaks rather than major. If you like your super saloon with a generous side order of personality, this is the model for you.

10/10

2. Looks inside

The XJ retains its sense of occasion inside the car too. The top trim model we drove boasted cream soft grain leather seats with piping, and a complementary walnut veneer. The central console is topped by the traditional Jaguar clock while the big cat is a huge snarling presence in the middle of the steering wheel. If you haven’t guessed by now – this car is no shrinking violet. That said, there is nothing gaudy about the XJ it has classy, liveable looks which reflect its position as Jaguar’s flagship vehicle.

9/10

3. Practicality

Well, it’s a super saloon, so much of the space is used for legroom and comfort rather than cramming in loads of MPV-style storage slots. This is especially true of the Long wheelbase (LWB) version we drove, which is quite likely to see a good proportion of owners sitting in the back preparing for their next high-powered meeting rather than taking the wheel. But the 470-litre boot isn’t to be sniffed at and there is decent storage in the cab, the doorwells boast wide storage bins plus there is a handy space between driver and front seat passenger.

7/10

4. Ride and Handling

Sensational. The XJ is one big car, especially in long wheelbase form. But the handling belies that size. The steering is incredibly precise, even more so when you press the sport button, which accelerates steering and throttle response. But with many owners likely to find themselves sitting in the back it was vital that Jaguar ensured this wasn’t at the expense of the ride. It wasn’t. The model we drove treated road humps with distain and ensured rear seat passengers had to fight to stay awake.

10/10

5. Performance

There are three V8 petrol models to choose from, a supercharged 4.2-litre model as well as regular 3.5- and 4.2-litre models. Our version was the twin turbo 2.7-litre V6 diesel model. Its 204bhp engine powers it from 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds with an available top speed of 141mph. There is also a very satisfying 321Ibs/ft of pulling power to call upon. However, the engine is quiet, ensuring this is the silky-smooth super saloon drivers and passengers expect. The six speed automatic gearbox is also precise and smooth.

8/10

6. Running Costs

The diesel model is the most economical, returning 35mpg on average and up to 43.7mpg for motorway cruising. Insurance falls into group 17E and emissions  of 214g/km see it currently in tax band F – with an annual bill of £205. Opting for one of the petrol models reduces fuel economy and, in some cases, increases the annual tax bill to band G, the most expensive, currently standing at £300 a year.

8/10

7. Reliability

Jaguar ranks 5^th worst manufacturer for reliability on our Reliability Index. Historically, models are most likely to experience problems after five years/55,000 miles with faults on the axle and suspension the most likely cause of problems. However the LWB 2.7-litre diesel model is a relatively recent addition to the range and could well perform better, especially as Jaguar has worked hard to improve its build quality. There was nothing to suggest any problems during our week-long loan.

6/10

8. Safety

No EuroNCAP test results for this model. But driver aids include anti-lock brakes, emergency brake assist, traction control and adaptive cruise control, parking sensors and, should the worst come to the worst, front and side airbags which react to the position and weight of occupants.

7/10

9. Equipment

Buyers can choose between Executive, Sovereign, Sport Premium and R trim with those with the deepest pockets able to take the top of the range Daimler Super Eight into consideration. The Sovereign model we drove featured a digital radio, 19-inch alloys and sat-nav as standard. Optional extras included rear screens with TV & DVD as well as rear multimedia controls, handy when the vehicle is being chauffeured. The equipment fulfils luxury saloon expectations.

8/10

10. X-Factor

It’s a toss-up between looks, ride and handling. All three are brilliant but given the car generated as many compliments during our week-long loan as most cars attract in a lifetime, we’ll go with that. This car has personality and heritage in spades with a look that’s also bang up to date. Want to turn heads? Buy this car.

10/10

Rivals

You might also want to consider:
Lexus LS600h

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