XJ Official: 2010 Jaguar XJ (X351)


The Jaguar XJ is a series of mid-size/full-size luxury cars produced from 1968 to 2019. It was produced across four basic platform generations (debuting in 1968, 1986, 2003, and 2009) with various updated derivatives of each. From 1970, it was Jaguar's flagship four-door model. The original model was the last Jaguar saloon to have been designed under the leadership of Sir William Lyons, the company's founder, and the model has been featured in countless media and high-profile appearances.
So here it is then. Browsing through the pages, it is apparent that Jaguar has entered a new era and that the XF was just a prelude. The manufacturer has just taken a 25 year leap in time waving good bye to the old world design template they have been using for the recent.......100 years?

As with the Panamera, the controversial rear-end does itself justice in motion clips and is probably very admirable in real life. The 3/4 quater view still makes me scratch my head and further more it seems as though Jaguar has had some great challenges with the new pedestrian safety regulation the bureaucrats in Brussels have set. Nevertheless it's a Jag, with a great sense of sex appeal that the Germans could only dream of. Frankly, I give it a thumb up so far.

On the flip side the interior leaves me with a bitter after-taste on my mouth. The center-console is appallingly generic and if it wasn't for the fancy gear knob -- it would be the interior of any 15-24k Euro car. Not only that, but Jaguar has gone a bit overboard with blue lightning similar to what we've seen in the new Camero. Still, no man who likes gadget can deny the awesomeness of the dash board -- it's straight from Minority Report. The rear cabin has a fantastic design to it and the auditorium-like wood panel that goes around the entire car is brilliant, that's Ian Callum at work.





Is it an S-Class killer? No. Is it a great alternative? Yes. Although the car is near faultless in terms of appeal, I cannot picture Gordon Brown or other MPs using it as a daily driver -- it's too flashy and this also applies to the Panamera. They splendid choices for those who want an executive car with flair, something with a bit more personality and suave. Technology-wise Jaguar have yet to break any extraordinary news but the weight saving is great............but might not translate to any wonders in real life. Porsche changed the game with the Panamera, it's heavy as a big but accelerate faster than cars with more power and less weight. Obviously Jaguar doesn't sit on the same pile of money as PAG and can therefore now develop the unthought of.

I have to say that pricing is very competitive and the strategy here seem to be survival as it's common knowledge that the Jaguar brand has exactly been printing money for the recent year. I can see the A8 and 7-Series getting a few scratches from this cat, but as far as the S-Class goes, MB doesn't have to worry. And the reason is simple -- it's the S-Class we're talking about. There's pre-scan, pre-safe 2/3 coming as well as other breakthroughs that will set the standards for what a top-end car should be like. Then there is the expensive new comer, Porsche Panamera. It costs a lot but has the competitive advantage of being close to as revolutionary as the S-Class when it comes to technology. It's fast and handles in a way none of the others could dream of. But this is certainly a breath of fresh air, just like the XF.
 
Am I blind or something, this is horror on wheels ...

Eni: I hope you are not serious about this car being "exotic and upscale" compared to the S Class or QP .. coz I think it is not. It looks like a holden "Yeah I said it million times now" and that front is just an enlarged XF, rear is lancia, side is Holden Caprice ... Only the interior that "I might" consider in this car .. rest is blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah
 
Am I blind or something, this is horror on wheels ...

Eni: I hope you are not serious about this car being "exotic and upscale" compared to the S Class or QP .. coz I think it is not. It looks like a holden "Yeah I said it million times now" and that front is just an enlarged XF, rear is lancia, side is Holden Caprice ... Only the interior that "I might" consider in this car .. rest is blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah

Are you allergic to cats Mo? :D I think that you'll come around once we've seen more photographs, the XF got a similar welcome to yours, when it was presented a few years back.

Just like most recent Jags and Astons, the new XJ has Volvo joystick for adjusting the side mirrors. Quality should be satisfactory but not sublime, especially since the silver plastic used in the XF doesn't feel top-end. Bare in mind that Jaguar is a manufacturer that is rebuilding itself and therefore it will unlikely trumph the Germans in quality. But on a whole it will likely offer great value just like the XF which has established itself as a compelling four seater.
 
Am I blind or something, this is horror on wheels ...

Eni: I hope you are not serious about this car being "exotic and upscale" compared to the S Class or QP .. coz I think it is not. It looks like a holden "Yeah I said it million times now" and that front is just an enlarged XF, rear is lancia, side is Holden Caprice ... Only the interior that "I might" consider in this car .. rest is blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah
I guess it's just refreshing for the majority of posters on here. Finally seeing a design which differs from the norm. I personally prefer seeing revolutionary designs instead of for instance churning the same old design philosophy out year after year e.g (Porsche) :D :usa7uh:
 
The rear-end looks best from a straight-on point of view.

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Love the exterior. Interior is a huge letdown though, the design of the dash with the huge protruding airvents is quite mainstream, kinda Mazda-ish. Too bad.

Not enough to put me off the car, it's a superb machine!
 
The design looks a mess from some angles, but I have to see in person or in real life outdoor pics. Everything on the car is so different from the usual segment suspects....and I guess that is the point. Job well done in that case.


M
 
I wonder how reliable the dash is. It would be funny to see it get a blue screen of death.
 
U.S. Specific Press Release

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE (U.S.)


Jaguar proudly revealed the all new 2010 Jaguar XJ today in London. The iconic XJ offers a seductive mix of striking design and robust performance made possible by Jaguar's aerospace-inspired light weight aluminum body technology. The all new Jaguar XJ will go on sale in December 2009, with a starting price of $72,500 MSRP. It is available to order today for delivery in early 2010.

Building on the success of the XK and XF, the new XJ is the third step in the revitalization of the Jaguar brand and redefines the world's perception of a large sports sedan. The new XJ will be available in both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom while the XJ’s trunk features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cubic feet of storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel).

The all new Jaguar XJ brings new standards of sustainability to the luxury vehicle segment. Its lightweight aluminum structure makes it at least 300 pounds lighter over steel body construction, and is made with 50 percent recycled material allowing the XJ to minimize its carbon footprint and create a potential savings of three tons of CO2 per vehicle, compared to a body shell made entirely of new aluminum. These aerospace-inspired aluminum body technologies also provide benefits to performance, handling and fuel economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety.

"The launch of the all new Jaguar XJ marks a major milestone for Jaguar in North America, which is expected to be the world's largest Jaguar XJ market," says Gary Temple, President of Jaguar Land Rover North America. "The debut of our ultimate four-door flagship follows recent recognition for exceptional dependability and clearly demonstrates our commitment to producing the finest cars in the world--fast, beautiful cars that offer luxury, performance and first-rate quality."

The first impression of the all new XJ is its visual assertiveness. The XJ’s sleek lines are complemented by a taut waistline, which further accentuates the impression of length and elegance, and creates a natural tension as it fades from the front arch into the middle section of the car before reappearing as a strong haunch towards the rear.

The New XJ offers a modern reinterpretation of a number of key XJ design cues while maintaining the highest standards of personal luxury. This is evident in how the strong, muscular lower half of the car contrasts with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline--a nod to the original 1968 XJ sedan.

A standard panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all new XJ’s design, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside. The LED light clusters wrap stylishly over the rear fenders, and feature three dramatic red vertical strips while the elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car’s silhouette. The rear of the all new XJ is notable for its pure, sculpted shape. With a conscious absence of ornamentation, the rear features only a single leaping Jaguar.

The face of the all new 2010 XJ is confident, with a wide front track and short overhang contributing to the finely judged proportions. The nose of the car follows Jaguar’s new design language with a bold and assertive treatment--the powerful mesh grille and slim xenon headlights create a strong road presence while the wrap-around rear screen reduces the visual weight of the pillars and gives the impression of an exotic "floating" roof.

“The new XJ is a thoroughly modern interpretation of the quintessential Jaguar," says Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars. "Its visual impact stems from the elongated teardrop shape of the car’s side windows; that powerful stance and its wide track. It is the most emphatic statement yet of Jaguar’s new design direction."

The sleek design and refined luxury is continued inside the all new XJ by mixing newly advanced technologies and contemporary design to create an environment more akin to a state-of-the-art living space than a car cabin. The overriding impression from the interior is a sense of personal space that is enhanced by the clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle. At the center of the instrument panel is an analog clock with individual chrome chaplets, a spun metal face and iridescent blue background; a look inspired by luxury watches.

The all new XJ's cabin is a marvel in its own right, blending elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provide an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully crafted leather and veneer surfaces. To further complement the cabin design is a level of choice in colors, veneers and leathers not seen before in a Jaguar. Four specification levels--XJ, XJL, Supercharged and Supersport--allow the customer to tailor the car to suit their tastes. The top-of-the-range Supersport provides the ultimate expression of performance and luxury, with a specification that includes a leather headlining, semi-aniline leather seats and veneers with laser inlays.

Stunning, 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual Instruments complement an innovative 8-inch Touch-screen that displays vehicle functions ranging from audio and video to navigation and climate control. Premium surround sound options include the top-of-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, which is standard on the Supercharged and Supersport models. Advanced infotainment features also include hard drive-based audio and navigation systems, and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub.

The all new XJ’s beauty is much more than skin-deep. All engines transmit power through an enhanced version of Jaguar’s acclaimed electronically controlled, six-speed automatic transmission which has a fully-adaptive shift system that delivers extremely smooth gear changes and works to balance performance and economy.

With the XJ, Jaguar has built upon its leading quality performance using the latest virtual product technologies. These proven Jaguar dynamic technologies are taken to new levels in the all new XJ. Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (on Supercharged and Supersport) and quick-ratio power steering deliver the blend of responsive, dynamic handling and a refined, supple ride expected from a Jaguar.

The new XJ will be available in the US with a choice of three engines--a 5.0-liter, 385-hp naturally aspirated V8, 5.0-liter, 470-hp supercharged V8 and a 5.0-liter, 510-hp supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XJ develops 380 lb.-ft. of torque. The supercharged versions develop 424 lb.-ft. and 461 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. All three engines combine deft performance, unparalleled character, peerless pedigree, and have a classic Jaguar blend of strength and precision.

The all new 2010 Jaguar XJ delivers a driving experience that is just as memorable as the car’s sleek and alluring appearance, combining responsive, sporting dynamics with the luxurious drive expected from a Jaguar.

All New Jaguar XJ At-A-Glance

-- As the company’s ultimate four-door flagship, the all new XJ extends the appeal of the legendary XJ line to a new generation of customers.

-- The all new XJ will be available in the US with a choice of three engines – a 5.0 liter 385hp naturally aspirated V8, 5.0 liter 470hp supercharged V8 and a 5.0 liter 510hp supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XJ develops 380 lb. ft. of torque. The supercharged versions develop 424 lb. ft. and 461 lb. ft. of torque, respectively.

-- The new XJ features both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom while the XJ’s trunk features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cu. ft. storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel).

-- The new Jaguar XJ is constructed using Jaguar’s aerospace-inspired aluminum body technology, which makes the XJ at least 300 lbs. lighter over steel body construction; providing benefits to performance, handling and fuel economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety.

-- Key driver aids on the new XJ include Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (available only on Supercharged and Supersport), and Sequential Shift System for manual gear selection, with shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel and quick-ratio power steering.

-- The new XJ comes standard with a CD/DVD player, HD radio, and a SIRIUS satellite radio receiver. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth audio streaming and an auxiliary input, which allow the user to connect with iPods, iPhones™, laptops and Blackberrys.

-- A 12.3-inch high-definition screen, which uses sophisticated--and beautifully detailed--Virtual Instruments, provides all of the functions performed by traditional dials.

-- A panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all new XJ’s design, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside.

-- The all new Jaguar XJ can be ordered today for delivery in early 2010 and will go on sale in December 2009, with a starting price of $72,500 MSRP.


The All New XJ Model Line Will Include:

-- 5.0-liter naturally aspirated XJ and XJL (385 hp) with a $72,500 and 79,500 MSRP, respectively

-- 5.0-liter XJ and XJL Supercharged (470 hp) with a $87,500 and $90,500 MSRP, respectively

-- 5.0-liter XJ and XJL Supersport (510hp) with a $112,000 and $115,000 MSRP, respectively

All prices include an $850 destination and delivery charge.



Jaguar XJ sedan revealed, reaches U.S. showrooms in December: AutoWeek Magazine



Wow, they put the pricing right where I said it should be. For 90K do you want a S550, 750Li or XJL Supercharged with 470hp? Seriously competitive pricing never hurts. They really bringing it this time around.


M
 
Still don't understand why they blacked the c pillars.

To break up what Callum says might look like an otherwise heavy-looking roof, every XJ gets a blacked-out D-pillar thanks to an injection-molded piece of plastic. Yes, it sounds a bit gimmicky, but the piano-black finish looks as good as painted metal. Once you combine this with the optional darkly tinted rear glass, the 2010 Jaguar will never be confused with anything out of Germany.


2010 Jaguar XJ First Look on Inside Line


M
 
Why do they have two 5.0l supercharged engines so close to each other? Paying $25K more for the powerful one kind of seems foolish.


Yep, the top of the line version should have had an increase to 550hp at least. However for the price of the 470hp version its (on paper) crushes the power on offer from BMW/Audi/MB/Lexus.



M
 
Car Magazine - New Jaguar XJ (2010): reaction from around the world



You’ll have seen the new Jaguar XJ (2010) by now. And no doubt been shocked by what you’ve seen. We’ve asked CAR’s team of experts, and other independent critics, for their verdicts on the new X351 XJ. Here are their verdicts:

Executive editor Gavin Green’s verdict on the new Jag XJ

‘I think it looks strong. There is enough of a link with the XF - but not too much - and the Quattroporte-like quasi-coupé lines are totally appropriate for a company seeking to make “beautiful fast cars”. It's a big step on from the current model, but such a clean break with the XJ's past is long overdue. Plus the interior is the best in the class, and by some margin.’

Jaguar Drivers’ Club director Steve Fermor’s verdict on the new Jag XJ

‘I’m quite an XJ purist and I know that some of my fellow purists will be banging their heads against the wall when they see this, but Jaguar has to evolve. The old cars are still there and we continue to enjoy them. But they must reach out to a new audience and this car will certainly do that. There’s a lot of C-XF in that front end, it’s gorgeous. And for anyone who says this is too different to be a Jaguar, just remember the XJS. That was wildly different and we look back on it fondly now.’

European editor Georg Kacher’s verdict on the new Jag XJ

‘It’s different, it’s modern, it’s good. It’s NOT German. More like a Citroën C8 by Jaguar. Thumbs up. I like it best in black, but I also like the blacked-out D-posts. I don’t like the rear view that much. Too American, too much Lincoln in what also could be a high-end saloon from Korea. Without the oversize leaper, this would be nothing, or could be anything.

‘The profile/side view is very strong, especially in combination with the big wheels. The front end is much better than XF, but perhaps not yet quite the epitomy of British luxury. I can’t wait to see the Supersport, though. What I’m missing is a retro-look plan view. All Jag saloons used to be at their widest around the B-posts. The XF and this XJ look like painted bricks from above.

‘The interior is very strong. Are these the world’s prettiest door panels or what? Slabs of wood, leather, chrome – I love it. The packaging however is very poor. Not enough room behind the steering wheel, not enough room in the rear unless you go LWB. What were they thinking?

‘All in all, a promising effort. Maybe they’ll sell 15,000 units a year, maybe less. But the new XJ is highly visible, totally unique, modern country living with a city slicker twist. It stands no chance against A8, 7-series, S-class in the sale chart – but’ll easily beat Lexus & co. And Bentley? I’d rather take X351 over a Flying Spur, any day of the week.’

Editor Phil McNamara’s verdict on the new Jag XJ

‘At the XJ’s sneak preview, I spent time trying to decode the design. The front is familiar: it’s a more brutish version of the XF’s face. The unembellished rear and wraparound glass are undeniably elegant. However, the XJ looks heavy over the rear wheelarch, and the segmented rear pillar jars the eye. I’ll reserve judgment on the XJ’s cohesiveness until I’ve seen cars out on the road – contrary to the rapid response internet age, I’m loath to make a daft judgment in haste, and squirm at leisure.’

Design critic Stephen Bayley's verdict on the new Jag XJ

‘Ian Callum has the most difficult job in the world – with its back catalogue of such extraordinary beauty. But beauty if a thing of the past. It's now about being extraordinarily interesting and interesting is good. I feel very positive about the new Jaguar XJ. Ian Callum has proven absolutely that he has not run out of ideas. The interior of the new XJ is up there with the best of the best.’

Car And Driver verdict on the new Jag XJ

‘At last, a Jaguar XJ that doesn’t resemble the one that came before. And before. And before.’



New Jaguar XJ (2010): reaction from around the world | Automotive & Motoring News | Car Magazine Online


M
 
So I'm assuming it's an enhanced version of the Aluminum Spaceframe used in the S80 and Taurus?

This car is very exciting, and I think Ian Callum is on the right track here, although I think he needs to refine the design theme a bit (like Bangle needed to do after the first 7 he penned), which will naturally take another cycle or two. The XF looks amazing, but that is because it is obviously a mix of classic and future, this XJ is all future.

I really do love a lot of it. My gripes right now are, too long of a rear overhang (looks like the car is dragging its ass kind of), the greenhouse is a bit too narrow (or something is off somewhat) as it gives the doors a fat and bulbous look. Also, again criticizing the green-house, it's a bit too close to saying "Ford" to me, reminds me of the current gen Taurus/Five Hundred.

The interior is gorgeous mostly, however, I have to touch it, as some of the areas have that stench of Ford plastic to me (possibly). Ford did great by honing in the Reliability aspect for Jaguar, but now Jag has to shake the rest of the Ford out, which I'm hoping this XJ has done.
 

Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover Automotive PLC is the holding company for Jaguar Land Rover Limited, also known as JLR, a British multinational manufacturer of luxury and sports utility vehicles. JLR, headquartered in Whitley, Coventry, UK, is a subsidiary of Tata Motors. Jaguar and Land Rover, with histories dating to the 1920s and 1940s, merged in 1968 under British Leyland. They later became independent and were subsidiaries of BMW and Ford. In 2000, BMW dissolved the Rover Group, selling Land Rover to Ford. Since 2008, Tata Motors has owned Jaguar Land Rover.
Official website: JLR

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