Jaguar XJ Series Saloon

ON THE ROAD

Performance
The lightweight aluminium body gives even the entry V6 petrol decent pace. The supercharged, 400bhp XJR is seriously fast. Hardest to argue a case for is the 4.2 V8 because the smaller engines do such a superb job. However, the real winner is the 2.7-litre V6 diesel, which is brisk, smooth and very quiet.

Ride & handling
All XJs have air springs and computerised damping, with comfort or sports settings. Sports makes the car less floaty over crests without spoiling its supple ride and helps it respond more keenly to the superb steering. All the latest electronic traction, cornering and braking aids are fitted.

Refinement
Jag believes a bit of engine noise is part of the driving experience, so if you want cloistered calm, buy a Lexus. Having said that, the engine noises are cultured and there’s an entertaining whoosh from the XJR’s supercharger. Road noise is largely absent. The engines and transmissions are creamily smooth

OWNERSHIP

Buying & owning
The diesel is the most tax-friendly car for business users, and because the XJ is so aggressively priced compared to German rivals, the Treasury's take is even more palatable. The weight-saving aluminium body helps towards good economy, while easy repairability has kept insurance rates down. Resale values are among the best in class, too.

Quality & reliability
Jaguar’s reputation for durable cars gets stronger all the time, and with this XJ, the perceived quality of the cabin – the feel of every switch and the damping effect on handles – convinces you build quality is on the up. Nobody does wood and leather like Jaguar, but some switches look a bit Ford-like.

Safety & security
Front-seat passengers are protected by six airbags, while those in the rear are shielded by curtain ’bags. A full set of electronic braking, cornering and traction aids is standard. It kept our attack testers out in the cold, too, and failed to get a maximum score only because the windows are not etched and the side glass is not laminated.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the wheel
With plenty of room all round in the cabin, and electronic adjustment of the front seats, steering wheel and even the pedal positions, we challenge you not to find a good driving position. Visibility is reasonable despite the slim windows, and the big switchgear is easy to use, although the low-set stereo loses ergonomic marks.

Space & practicality
The latest XJ has plenty of head- and legroom for all occupants, although the cabin still feels snug. The boot can’t match its rivals for space – and it is even smaller than a Ford Mondeo’s. Wheelarch intrusion makes it an awkward shape, too.

Equipment
Wood, leather and a high level of luxury and safety features are standard on all versions, including climate control, a CD autochanger and rear parking sensors. The range-topper even has a touch-screen navigation system and voice-activated controls, features which are available as options on every model.

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