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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  XJ Offspring is wonderful! - 2006 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By rhassm - June 7 - 5:36 am

  My wife inherited a XJ12C that I eventually restored. I was aware of some of the older Jaguar "mythology". As I restored this vehicle, the craftsmanship and engineering made an impression on me; however, the design and styling were the best. After learning this older Jag, we could not stray too far from the classic style and comfort of Jaguar. The 2006 XJ L is a remarkable vehicle. We have experienced fuel economy greater than 25 mpg on the road, in some cases very close to 30 mpg. The nimble comfortable ride make this vehicle a treat to drive.

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  Excellent ride surprisingly sporty - 2005 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Wendy - June 3 - 12:53 am

  Excellent ride, strong V8 and smooth transmission. More engine noise at high speed than S-class. Interior design and comfort is superb.

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  Best XJ Yet! - 2006 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Lloyd - May 27 - 9:40 am

  We have owned XJ Jaguars since early 80s. We loved the exterior style; were non plussed about the performance; but, suffered the interior dimensions. At 6 4" in height it was a challenge to fit myself into the drivers seat (not to mention two equally tall sons in the rear seats). Now almost everything has changed. This model is an extraordinary improvement. The interior is very spacious. More head room than even my height can use. A back seat that provides two 6 2" gentleman with more than ample leg, shoulder and head room. Incredible handling and driving performance. It is fast, silent and smooth. All the while, it has retained the Jaguar elegance which we have always appreciated.

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  My favorite car EVER!!! - 2005 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Daniel Chao - April 8 - 2:44 am

  I have the black on black xj8 L. I got some sexy 20 inch rims for it. Smoke the windows. My car is super sick. Everywhere I go everyone looks. I bought this car because of the price and what you get for it. People think you have to be a baller to drive this car. I did buy my car used with 80000 miles on it. But the conditions were immaculate. I am having some minor issues with the air suspension and I know the shocks on this car are very expensive. But I rather drive a Jaguar with this type of attitude than anything on the street for this year 2005. I have the nicest car on the block. I wish I could post a picture so you guys can see but unfortunately I cant. I highly recommend people who want this car to buy it in black or in white. Any other color will make the car look like any other car. Has to be black an exceptional white. I promise you that if you buy this car in black and smoke the windows you will be feeling like the boss of the road

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  My 1st Jag - 2001 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By tex2007 - March 28 - 3:53 pm

  ..always owned BMW or Mercedes. Never owned black vehicle or Jag..till now. My NEXT vehicle will be a black Jag too. L-O-V-E this car! Its nimble, aggressive when necessary and a real head turner. Next Jag will have the Navigation system too. This one is a CPO car which adds to my driving pleasure and peace of mind.

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  top notch - 2006 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By oyahc - March 15 - 5:56 pm

  I have owned this one for 3 years; it is awesome! I also have an XKR and an XKE. The power is incredible; it exudes luxury, and the maintenance has been minimal.

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  POWER SURGE - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By Robert Cass - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Explosive acceleration caught me by surprise; I had traded in a 1998 S420 Mercedes and therefor was not used to the Jaguar 390 horsepower quickness. The ride on the low profile 19 inch tires is firm and smooth. Im especially fond of the internal DVD Navigation system which covers all the USA and Canada. The Cruise Control allows you to select a "following" spacing behind any vehicle in front and if you have selected a higher speed than the vehicle in front, it will slow your speed to maintain the spacing you have selected.

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  Vanden plas - 2002 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By pookie - February 7 - 7:56 pm

  Overall quite pleased with vehicle.

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  Slightly used Vanden Plas - 2006 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By RAK - January 20 - 1:50 am

  Recently bought a 2006 VDP which came fully loaded. The car is an absolute treat to drive, with a responsive, powerful engine that still gives good gas mileage. It is quiet and smooth, yet can take corners at speed. The interioir is a place of calm and comfort. I like this car very much.

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  WHY I BOUGHT A 2003 RATHER THEN A 2004 - 2004 Jaguar XJ-Series
  By RICHARD STANGL - January 17 - 10:00 am

  IVE BOUGHT NEW JAGUARS SINCE 1985. THE 2004 MODEL IS THE BIGGEST LET DOWN I HAVE SEEN SINCE THE EARLY 90S WHEN THEY REMOVED THE TRADITIONAL HOOD STYLING , ONLY TO LOSE SALES AND REPLCE IT LATER. THERE MUST BE SOME YOUNG STYLIST FROM FORD , THAT RUINED THE VENERABLE JAGUAR LOOK . THEY FORDIZED THE 2004 XJ. THE GAS CAP IS NOW LIKE THE CROWN VIC, THE HOOD OPENS LIKE A TAURUS, AND THE ONCE SLEEK LINES ,NOW RESEMBLE THE TOWNCAR. BUY A RMAINING 2003 ASAP BEFORE THEY ARE GONE. ONE MIDWEST LONG TIME DEALER/ OWNER REFUSED TO DISCOUNT OFF LIST ON THE 03. HE SAID " PEOPLE COME IN AND TAKE ONE LOOK ATR THE 04 AND SAY ILL TAKE AN 03.