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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  Still unsure - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By cubby - October 17 - 10:40 am

  Always liked the looks of the Jag, I have yet to find anything I dont like about it (well maybe). The car has a little too much road noise. It comes from the front area and is more noticeable at slow speeds and when slowing down to a stop. It has all weather tires and this might be the reason for this or maybe Im being a little over the top.

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  Hit the Road - 2005 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Michael Roberts - October 8 - 6:53 pm

  I have owned my new XJ8-L for 6 months and have put a total of 5200 miles on it. The longest road trip was from Portland Oregon to Palm Springs California about 1100 miles on I-5 . This road trip was 15 1/2 hours with stops just for gas and food. The seats are very comfortable and the car was a dream. After driving that distance you really get to know what your driving. Most impressive besides the handling and endless accelerating power was the fuel mileage, I was averaging in the high 20s and thats at speeds between 75 and 90mph most impressive for such a large car. The car never lost power even going up the LA Grapevine. The return trip was just as much fun and in record time!

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  Love My Jag - 2000 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By braceand - October 6 - 10:00 am

  I have owned and driven, Cadillacs, Lincoln Continentals, Mercedes Benz and Porsche. Although these are all fine vehicles, the Jaguar XJ8 is the most complete as far as reliability, comfort, ease of driving and maintenance.

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  XJ8 Luxury Class Leader - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Doug Finch - September 25 - 6:36 pm

  The totally new XJ8 is a truly enjoyable luxury car! It has everything a luxury car needs to have. Jaguar didnt leave anything out when they redesigned the XJ8. The option list is small since just about everything you need is standard. The available options truly can turn your car into one that you will meet the needs of all the occupants.The car feels so lightweight due to its aluminum body. It is very stiff and firm. The ride is very smooth and controlled with its computer controlled self leveling suspension. It will be interesting to see how Jaguar will improve such a fine automobile.

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  Purrfect! - 2007 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Mike - September 4 - 5:00 am

  I purchased a 2007 XJ VP and find this car to be an absolute joy to drive. For the first time in owning most other prestige makes, I have finally found a vehicle that I am proud to own. The XJ VP interior is total comfort and the finish quality is unbeatable. Despite its size, the 300 HP V8 and all-alloy body makes this car surprisingly quick and it handles almost like a sports car. Thank you Jaguar! After so many years I am enjoying the experience of driving again.

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  Wonderful Jag ! - 2008 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By gmayfield - August 30 - 2:30 am

  Very fun to drive. Not sure about reliability as it only has 14k miles. Drives like a dream & very responsive handling and acceleration. 2 quirks I will mention: No back-up camera in navigation system. "beep" signal is very adequate though Rear seat headrests hinder rear outward vision TREMENDOUSLY !!! I wish they could flip down out of the way or could be removed easily. The headrests enlarge the blindspots on both sides, therefore you must rely heavily on rear view side mirrors when changing lanes. Make sure mirrors are adjusted correctly or you WILL cut someone off when changing lanes. Otherwise, one of my most memorable cars to drive & to look at.

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  Number 1 on the market - 2006 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By trc468 - August 26 - 1:10 am

  I am back to Jag. It is like coming home to that smooth, comfortable and quite ride. Besides the XJ8s unmistakable classy exterior design, it offers the most beautiful interior on the market today. With its 300HP, this car can preform as well. It is tight and quick on its feet. Great performance with a remarkable average of 19.4 MPG (mostly city driving). This is my third Jag since Y2000, and I can tell you these cars are extremely dependable! Do not make the same mistakes by straying away to the other luxury brands. Wow, its great to be home!

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  Remarkable value. Exceptional car - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By razrover - August 19 - 4:23 am

  This car has to be the best value on the market. It get a respectable 24 MPG with 400 horses under the hood. This is not your dads jag. It feels light and responsive. When you hit the sport button the throttle is very responsive and you feel extremely fast. The interior is perfect. Everything that looks like leather IS leather and everything that look like metal IS metal. Things you expect when your original sticker is $90k. Ridiculous depreciation that is mostly due to the sins of the past make this car a remarkable value. Currently the car has 85,000 miles and Ive had it for 3 years. Buy an extended waranty and pat yourself on the back for buying one of the greatest cars ever.

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  Jaguar Excellence - 2003 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By James - August 13 - 7:03 am

  This is the 7th jaguar I have owned, all have been great cars. This one the XJ8 seems to be the best to date, all round flexibility in comfort in town and highway. I do not think anyone could overdrive this car, it sticks like glue and goes where you point it. it never fails to get comments on its looks, It truly is in a class of its own.

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  Amazing vehicle! - 2002 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Bob - July 23 - 1:40 pm

  Wife and I found this car in 2006 with only 9600 original miles. I can hardly get her out of it! We have a 2005 Town Car, which rides great, but there is nothing like driving a JAG! What a ride!