Overview & Reviews

The British have a penchant for revering (and some say clinging to) things past -- old buildings and dentistry from the 16th century, warm beer, 50-year-old double-decker Routemasters, the royal family and the Jaguar XJ Series. Introduced in 1968, the XJ's basic styling has strayed very little through three generations and several midlife redesigns. About the wildest thing to happen was the addition of square headlamps in 1990 -- and they were generally met with a smattering of jeers and "cor blimeys!"

Not since Prince Charles was in his 20s had the Jaguar XJ Series been considered the cutting edge of full-size luxury sedans, even when it introduced a lightweight aluminum frame, powerful V8 engines, active damping suspension and high-tech features like adaptive cruise control, navigation and Bluetooth. Indeed, Jaguar's insistence on maintaining "timeless" styling backfired, leading to disappointing sales at a time when it could ill afford any false starts (or whatever English rugby analogy would apply). Not only did the XJ's fortunes tank, but the entire Jaguar brand was threatened with financial ruin.

All of that changed for 2011 when Jag pulled the covers off its radical fourth-generation XJ. Gone was ye olde styling and in came sexy, modern duds inside and out unlike anything else on the road. That car, now without the "Series" nomenclature, is covered in a separate Jaguar XJ review.

Used Jaguar XJ Series Models
The previous, third-generation XJ was produced from 2004-'09. There was no 2010 XJ. This generation may have looked like the previous one, but it was in fact completely redesigned and featured an all-new aluminum chassis that was significantly stiffer and lighter than the previous steel structure.

This XJ was offered in two wheelbases and five trim levels. The XJ8 and supercharged XJR are short-wheelbase models, while the XJ8 L, Vanden Plas and supercharged Super V8 have long wheelbases. The latter two were introduced for 2005. The XJ8 and XJ8 L came with a respectable amount of equipment for a luxury sedan, while the Vanden Plas added more luxurious trappings. The XJR was equipped for enhanced performance and handling. The Super V8 was essentially a Vanden Plas with much of the XJR performance equipment, plus a few extra high-end features. Much of what is standard on the Vanden Plas and Super V8 was optional on the base XJ8 models.

The base engine was a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8, which originally produced 294 horsepower and then 300 hp for '06 and later. The XJR and Super V8 got a supercharged version of the same engine originally good for 390 hp, and 400 hp for '06 and later. The only transmission offered was a six-speed automatic attached to Jaguar's classic and controversial J-gate shifter.

The interior, much like the rest of the car, was a peculiar mix of current technology and heritage design. Burl walnut trim, chrome and supple leather were liberally strewn about, providing a coddling environment that would make the Fifth Duke of Wellington feel at home. Yet in reviews, we found this classic British style came at the expense of ergonomics and general usability. Controls and switchgear were laid out illogically and set low in the dashboard, while their craftsmanship was not up to par. Whether that was considered "charming" or just "irritating," we yearned for the XJ's cabin to join the 21st century even as it added such newfangled features as Bluetooth, cooled seats and satellite radio over the years.

Our road tests showed the Jaguar XJ8 to deliver an isolated ride that filtered out even the most punishing roads with little intrusion into the cabin. The soft suspension, though, tended to mask the car's stiffer body structure and good steering. On the other hand, the XJR (and to a lesser extent, the Super V8) made the most of its advanced aluminum chassis. Its quicker steering, more aggressively tuned air suspension and 400-hp supercharged V8 proved that Jaguar could produce a luxury sedan that pleased enthusiasts and luxury-minded buyers alike. In total, this Jag XJ drove like a thoroughly modern car -- it just didn't look like one.

Other than its modest power increase, few features additions and the for-2006-only Super V8 Portfolio, the only significant change you should note was for 2008, when the XJ was mildly restyled to adopt XK-style front fender vents and a more aggressive front fascia. You'd be hard-pressed to tell the differences at a glance, though.

The first Jaguar XJ debuted in 1968 and lasted through 1987, while the second generation was on the prowl from 1987 (yes, both generations were offered that year) to 2003. The second generation started out with round headlights, but for 1990 adopted ungainly rectangular units that were met with disdain by Jaguar enthusiasts. On the whole, this era of the XJ (which ran to '94) was seen as one of the darkest, as it was plagued with various problems, many of which were electrical in nature.

For 1995's midcycle makeover, the round headlights returned, along with a sleeker, lower grille. The interior was also significantly revised to bring it into the 1990s, with improved materials and more up-to-date electronics. The traditional look remained, however, with radio and HVAC controls contained in a pod under a large swath of wood.

There were a number of different engines offered during the second generation's lifespan. The square-headlamp version came with a choice of either an inline-6 (3.6 liters and later 4.0) or a 6.0-liter V12. These models were referred to as the XJ6 and XJ12, respectively. The engines carried through the 1995 overhaul, with a supercharged, 310-hp version of the six-cylinder engine first appearing in the new XJR in '95. The V12-powered XJ12 was dropped in 1997.

For '98, Jaguar replaced the inline-6 engines with all-new V8s. A 4.0-liter V8 (290 hp) was found in the XJ8 (the "8" in the name signifying V8 power), while a supercharged version (370 hp) powered the XJR. A few years into this generation, the supercharged V8 became available in other XJs as well, namely the Vanden Plas Supercharged and Super V8 models.

Performance of the 1995-2003 Jaguar XJs ranged from swift for the six-cylinder cars to thrilling for the supercharged V8 versions. Our road test of a 2000 Vanden Plas had that long-wheelbase luxury sedan sprinting to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. Ride and handling are composed but (except on the XJR) biased toward plush comfort, as one might expect of a vehicle whose cabin resembles an Edwardian parlor.

User Reviews:

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  XJ8 - 2001 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By HJF - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I leased the car. I knew I was going to buy it at the end of the lease. It looks great, rides wonderful.It uses a qt of oil every 800 miles. Jaguar says that is normal.The mechanics say the XJ8 engine has a bad breather system and the part load breather needs to be cleaned all the time. I dont reaaly know what they are saying.I know the engine is also in the S an option, and XK. They are replacing engines but you really need to complain. I didnt buy.

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  XJ8 - 2001 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By HJF 2 - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I leased my car, knowing I would purchase after 2 years. The car looks great and rides perfect. It uses a great deal of oil. (1 qt every 800 miles) The dealer says it is normal.The mechanis say the xj8 engine has serious problems with the breather system. Engines are being replaced in the XK S (an option) as well as XJ8.I decided not to keep it, my independant mechanic said dont buy it, it will get worse. I am very disappointed with Jaguar, I still like the car, not the engine.

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  Gorgeous car; ugly repairs. - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By indiansummer - September 2 - 6:11 am

  Bought this car in January of 2011 with 13k miles on it. Always wanted this model. I knew what I was getting myself into but was stubbornly optimistic. I wanted to believe Jag had improved their reliability over the years but was quickly disappointed. The performance is beyond reproach and I admit I am now spoiled with its power and plush interior. But by 20K, one of the shocks blew. By 30k, the air suspension compressor died. By 40k, another shock blew. By 45k, the car died mid-ride (thank God I wasnt on the freeway). The dreaded "engine systems fault" light illuminated. Dealer couldnt figure out the problem and it magically cured itself; promptly traded it for reliable Lexus.

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  1 Week Into Jaguar Ownership - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By mherbst - June 1 - 5:49 pm

  12k a 40k mile car was a steal. I purchased this car knowing something would break. You have to have that mindset for all Jaguars and plan accordingly. This car was below my budget for a used car, and I put my savings from the purchase into an account for future repairs. Im now very glad I did. 1 week in and the sunroof is broken, air suspension has visible leaks, who knows what else. Just the parts for the sunroof are $800, rear air suspension is $1500 for one shock. If you dont mind working on a car yourself (which I dont) this is a decent buy, also for air suspension issues arnott makes better than factory suspension. 4 shocks for the price of a jag one.

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  Love hate relationship - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By whart12 - May 12 - 12:40 am

  Bought XJ8 VDP used with 60000 reading on the odometer. Love the comfort speed and styling of this big cat but been disappointed with its quality. If you are the type that can fix little things on your own then this wouldn’t be a bad buy. The XJ has not left me stranded but have had little things go wrong. List of problem that I was able to fix myself: 1. All lock mechanism stopped working- found used parts on Ebay for 200 for all 4 doors. New price for each door is 300+. 2. Interior blower motor stop working- found control module on Ebay for 120. New part 300+ 3. Trunk latch stopped working- found trunk latch on Ebay for 50. New part 400+ 4. Radio amp stopped working- found used part on Ebay for 100. New part 1500+ Again, if you don’t have a personal mechanic or you are not able to turn a wrench do yourself a favor stay away…..

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  auto review - 2002 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By norm chait - April 29 - 10:00 am

  I am very pleased with the car and the service that goes along with the car from the authorized dealer.

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  Not a Primary Car - 2001 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By XJ8L Owner - April 5 - 10:00 am

  The XJ8L is sublimely comfortable for front seat passengers - and moreso for those in the back. But dont buy this car if youre going to use it every day to commute in. The fact that it is an "L" model makes it incredibly difficult to park. Guzzles gas like crazy. Guzzles oil like crazy. TERRIBLE BRAKES! They started squealing after about 2000 miles. Expensive luxury cars like this should not have brakes that scream like banshees. Had brake pads ground still didnt fix it. Had brakes replaced for $800 and it isnt as loud but it is still a noticeable squeal. Wood panels on doors feel loose. Generally bad ergonomics.

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  A real improvement - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By RA Spell - November 3 - 10:00 am

  After owning a 99 XJ8 and an 01 XKR, I wanted a different brand of car for my wife. After test driving all models with a bias to NOT buy a Jaguar, I still bought the Jag. THIS CAR IS A VAST IMPROVMENT OVER PAST MODELS and I believe it to be currently the best car on the road. My one complaint is outside appearance. I liked the lower profile Jag. This is taller and more rounded but compensated with better cabin room. Performance is its strength as it is incredibly more responsive. Test this car and you wont be disappointed.

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  The Last "Real" Jaguar Sedan - 2001 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By John Mulvihill - August 30 - 5:20 pm

  Ford owned Jaguar when this car was on the drawing boards, but left the Brits alone to create the last "Lyons-era" big Jaguar saloon, 100% British in components, design, and construction. The result is the finest XJ ever. Its low-slung (5" lower than todays luxury cars) and gorgeous. In the best Jaguar tradition, this big sedan is silky, quiet, and fast. Only a handful of supercharged VDPs are produced by Jaguar every year, and all are pre-sold. Supercharged VDPs are the ultimate Jaguars, and this generation of XJs is the finest of the breed. Tightening safety and fuel economy standards mean well never see cars like this again.

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  My Jaguar XJ8 - 2005 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Richard Anapolsky - July 24 - 8:33 pm

  I love the vehicle, its look, ride and performance. The only major problem I have had is the computer system/modules. I find warning lights going on and then the dealer having problems tracing the route of the problem. Changing any of the 8 computer modules doesnt correct the problem. Hopefully the problem will be found and I will be able to enjoy my XJ8 even more. I have also not been able to find a supplier of the trailer hitch that Jaguar says is available for use with this auto. In addition producing an auto that is wired for cellular use and being told by the dealer that to activate it is $1,00- is ridiculous. Jaguar should price the activation to be affordable.