The Jaguar XJ series is all new for 2004. Jaguar's flagship
luxury sedans are bigger than last year's models, and offer
roomier, more comfortable cabins. The XJ8, Vanden Plas,
and XJR are faster, safer, and more fuel-efficient than
before.
Sleek, sensual, lithe, agile, elegant are just a few
of the many positive words used to describe the venerable
Jaguar XJ sedan during the 35 years it has graced the auto
scene. Yet there have been some negative comments. Among
them was that the XJ was too small inside. It was imperative
to increase the interior space in this new XJ if it were
to be true large luxury sedan because we're all getting
bigger, according to Jaguar's demographic research. The
new XJ offers plenty of interior space for front passengers
and dramatically increased room for rear passengers. As
expected of Jaguar's flagship, the new XJ swaths its occupants
in traditional British luxury with rich wood and leather
while sparing us unnecessary gee-whiz features.
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Sleek and big generally don't go together, yet Jaguar
engineers and designers have craftily created a bigger car
that doesn't look or feel bigger. Styling changes are subtle,
but the XJ looks like a big cat ready to pounce. It is a
beautiful car.
The XJ's dynamic looks are not deceptive. Stand on
the gas and a powerful new 4.2-liter V8 engine thrusts the
XJ8 to speed, benefiting from a new six-speed ZF automatic
transmission. The 390-horsepower XJR sprints from 0 to 60
in just 5 seconds and hits its rev limiter at 155 mph. Once
at speed, the XJ is smooth and quiet.
In spite of its substantial increase in size, the
new XJ is considerably lighter than the old model. The XJ
bodyshell is made entirely from aluminum. Lighter and stiffer,
the new XJ monocoque is more like an airplane's fuselage
than a traditional car body. In addition to its rigid new
chassis, the XJ comes with a sophisticated suspension that
offers a smooth ride and impressively good grip.
Sleek, sensual, lithe, agile, elegant are words that
are even more apropos to the all-new XJ.
