This is a fresh start for the Jaguar XJ. Aside from Jaguar’s patented massive front grille, the XJ's bold bodylines and accents are sleek, innovative, and purposeful. Its design contributes to the car’s low drag coefficient. Its lightweight aluminum chassis makes it light on its 20-inch alloy wheels as well. From the front fascia to the quarter panel to the chrome trim that frames the cabin windows to the amazing sunroof and electronic-blind system, the XJ models are knockouts. It is the stuff from which legends are made three times over with the XJ and XJL, the XJ and XJL Supercharged, and the XJ and XJL Supersport models. All of the “L” models have a longer wheelbase that adds five inches of extra space to the backseat area.
Whether it is the craftsmanship or the quality of the materials under the spotlight, the interior is a star on both fronts with shining wood veneers and supple leather that pairs up splendidly to make the interior a plush and comfortable experience. The trim and tipped-leather highlights take elegance to another level. The glow from the blue phosphor background light from inside the cabin complements Jaguar’s penchant for maximizing aesthetics most convincingly.
The array of wood veneers and tones of soft-grain leathers available provide leeway for many creative options for personalizing the interior. Even the high-tech instrumental panel, which is an elaborate HD LCD touch-screen with a built-in navigation system, fits in cozily. For music, there is a 600-watt sound system, as well as an optional 1,200-watt system with 20 Kelvar speakers. Both sound systems are by Bowers & Wilkins.
All Jaguar XJ models come standard with antilock brakes, stability, and traction control. The back-up camera and sensors for when the car is in reverse along with the adaptive cruise control and emergency-brake assist system further enhance safety.
The engine beneath the hood is Jaguar’s superb 5.0-liter direct-injected V8. The XJ Supercharged and the XJ Supersport versions have additional firepower via an added supercharger. The Supersport is the beasts of the pack meting out 510 horsepower. The Supercharged does out 470 horsepower, while the standard 5.0 delivers 385 horsepower.
Jaguar’s smooth six-speed automatic transmission system, which offers the choice of shifting automatically or manually, is standard in all XJ models. Several alloy-wheel packages are offered, starting with a 19-inch cast alloy. Twenty-inch spoke wheels by Mataiva are exclusive to the Supersport.
The XJ is offered in two solid colors, six metallic colors, and five special order metallic colors. The XJL and the Supercharged are available in two solid colors and 11 metallic colors. The Supersport is available in 12 metallic colors and two solid colors.
The 2011 Jaguar XJ models are poised to pounce into the luxury auto marketplace with extraordinary style and elegance that makes the black cat a standout in any crowd.
