2010 Jaguar XJ Review
The previous generation Jaguar XJ had one of the most iconic design in automotive history. A shape that was going on for nearly half a century!
For the new model though, Jaguar decided some desperate measures are required, so they threw away all the traditional stuff and started from scratch, much like they did with the new XF with great results.
So the new XJ came with an all-new character, still bold and very very British, but more sophisticated than before. No other luxury sedan in this segment look like this Jag, which is good, even though it has a kind of love or hate design. We like that, we think that’s what make a car special.
Every area of the new Jaguar XJ – from the outer skin to the composite undertray to the fine grille meshes of the cooling system – was optimised using this process. Key areas included the profile of the rear decklid, which was engineered to ensure that the airflow was controlled without the need for a spoiler. As well as reduced drag and impressively low wind noise, the overall shape achieves aerodynamic loads that are carefully balanced between front and rear axles to ensure optimum handling balance and high-speed stability.
The interior of the new Jaguars are also very interesting. They’ve let go of the traditional heavy and unwelcoming wood trims, and they’ve let go of it hard! They’ve replaced it with a more espresso look that appeals to the younger generation. Like the XF it comes with folding air vents and pop-up circular gear knob.
The overriding impression from the interior is a sense of personal space, a feeling enhanced by the clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle. At the sides of the cabin, a bold architectural wood veneer sweeps forward from the doors to meet at the front of the car, emphasising the new Jaguar XJ’s powerful, dynamic character. This linear, modern use of wood helps to create a truly welcoming environment.
The new XJ can be had with the new 3.0-litre AJ-V6D Gen III diesel which is an outstanding engine delivering great performance with exceptional efficiency. Compared to the highly acclaimed 2.7-litre unit that accounted for up to 25 percent of XJ sales worldwide, the new V6 Diesel is 33 percent more powerful at 275PS, while torque rises by 38 percent to a substantial 600Nm. When combined with the XJ’s lightweight structure, the performance gains are considerable. Acceleration to 60mph is accomplished in just 6.0 seconds, on the way to an electronically governed top speed of 155mph. Fuel economy and emissions are also impressive, with the diesel-powered XJ returning combined economy figures of 40.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 184g/km.
Other choices are a 5.0 liter V8, and a yet to be launched supercharged version of that.
As it’s the case with cars of this segment, the Jag is also loaded with luxury features. What caught our eye is the 1200W Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system which is a superb system, specially when hooked up with the Dual-View touchscreen system that offers navigation and a HDD for storing music and maps.
Choosing a German saloon might make more sense than this lofty Jag, but the Brit is far more fascinating and cooler than rivals from Mercedes, BMW and Audi. The only car that comes close is Maserati Quattroporte.
