Overview

The Jaguar XJ is a flagship model that’s been around since 2010, but still looks bang-up-to date thanks to its clever, progressive styling. It’s a world away from the retro-styled Jaguars of old in terms of appearance, cabin ambience and and sophistication. But it’s still very much a Jaguar with a coupe-like styling, making out as a very different proposition to most other traditional luxury saloons.

The Jaguar XJ’s sternest rivals are the Audi A8, Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series. But as it’s a left-field choice in this German-dominated market, XJ buyers are likely to be looking in the direction of the Lexus LS, Porsche Panamera and even the Tesla Model S.

In the absence of a gadget-laden interior compared with its German rivals, the simpler cabin feels less intimidating, whether you’re in the back or behind the wheel.

An all-aluminium body ensures a low kerb weight, which, combined with a powerful range of engines, means the XJ delivers strong performance and agility with pleasing economy.

The cosseting cabin is a wonderful piece of design too with unique touches over its luxury alternatives. There’s a neat touch-sensitive release for the glovebox and overhead light controls, while the ambient lighting is something that rivals had to catch up on – but have since surpassed.

Rather than facing a slew of buttons covering up the dash or vast swathes of glaring touchscreens, the XJ feels luxurious in a more uncomplicated manner; serving as a place to relax and switch off, rather than one of constant distraction.

There’s a huge amount of leather inside the cabin and it can be specified in a range of colours, although the choice of plastics used on the centre console feel decidedly inexpensive.

Those wanting maximum rear seat space can opt for the long-wheelbase XJ, increasing rear legroom by 121mm over the standard length saloon.

Jaguar XJ: diesel and petrol engines only

Buyers get a choice of three supercharged petrol engines and one turbocharged diesel; all are mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and, bar the XJR575, have a top speed of 155mph.

The best seller is the 3.0-litre V6 diesel, offered on the more popular trim levels in the range. Producing 300hp and 700Nm torque, the 0-62mph dash requires 6.2 seconds.

The 3.0-litre V6 serves as the entry-level petrol engine, producing 340hp and 450Nm of torque and achieving the 0-62mph sprint in 5.9 seconds.

There are two versions of the 5.0-litre V8 available, each limited to a specific trim level. The 510hp version produces 625Nm and cuts the 0-62mph time down to 4.9 seconds. This is solely available on the most luxurious, long-wheelbase-only Autobiography model.

The top halo model is the XJR575, with the 5.0-litre V8 producing 575hp and 700Nm of torque. This standard-wheelbase-only model completes the 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 186mph.

Jaguar XJ trim levels

The XJ is available in six trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury, Portfolio, Autobiography, R-Sport and XJR575.

The Autobiography is available in long-wheelbase form only, while the R-Sport and XJR575 are limited to standard-wheelbase.