2018 Jaguar XJ Review
The XJ is Jaguar's full-size luxury sedan that despite its advancing years manages to look as desirable and modern as any of the much newer competition. Its available with a host of luxury accessories including a lengthened wheelbase and enters 2018 with a list of minor changes to trim levels, available options and a power hike for the top V8 model.
What’s it like inside?
The Jaguar XJ exudes an air of classy luxury the moment you step inside, leather and high quality materials are used throughout the cabin and despite the older design it has aged well. A recent update to the dashboard and infotainment system has kept the XJ relevant in today's techno-focused market too.
Front occupants will want for nothing comfort wise, multi-adjustable seats and generous leg and head room will suit most shapes and sizes. The rear is luxurious too, it does offer slightly less headroom due to that sloping rear roof but opt for the long wheelbase model and you get even more space and added luxuries.
The trunk is shallow but deep, the non-foldable rear seats do limited practicality but the available cargo space should suit most needs.
How does it drive?
The XJ was always capable on challenging roads but its sheer size and comfort biased suspension setup make it feel more at home when cruising on the highway than blasting down your favorite stretch of mountain pass.
The cabin is predictably quiet and the ride is excellent too, some competitors may eclipse the Jag in handling ability but the XJ's ride/handling balance are well judged for this type of car.
What about the performance?
The Jaguar XJ is available with either a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 making 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque or a supercharged V8 with outputs of either 470 hp and 424 lb-ft or 575 hp and 502 lb-ft in the top extended wheelbase trim level.
Rear-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive available on V6 models only, an 8-speed automatic transmission is standard throughout. Even the base models are quick with the 340 hp V6 getting to 60 mph in 5.7-seconds in rear-wheel drive form. The 470 hp V8 cuts this down to 4.9-seconds while the 575 hp model turns in a sport sedan equaling time of 4.2-seconds.
Consumption figures naturally favor the V6 engine although if you want to get somewhere in a hurry accompanied by a seriously addictive exhaust note then the V8s are your only option.
What are my options?
The short wheelbase XJ is available with the 3.0-liter 340 hp V6 or the 470 hp 5.0-liter V8 while the long wheelbase XJL adds a 575 hp V8 option. The V6 models can be had in all-wheel drive form.
The base R-Sport trim offers 19-inch wheels, full LED headlamps, panoramic sunroof, active ventilated heated and cooled front seats, 12.3-inch display with virtual instruments including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, 20-speaker audio system, soft close doors, blind spot monitoring, rear traffic warning and satellite radio.
The XJL models start with the Portfolio trim level which includes the above and adds 5-inches of rear legroom, 20-inch wheels on AWD models, four-zone climate control, electric rear sunblinds and illuminated rear vanity mirrors.
The Supercharged Trim is available on both wheelbase options and adds sport suspension, active rear differential, upgraded brakes and all of the features listed in the Portfolio Trim.
The top 575 LWB trim is as the name suggests available only on the long wheelbase XJL and adds the 575 hp V8 engine as well as a range of bespoke color options. Detailed exterior styling accents, unique 20-inch wheels and an active sport exhaust are also unique to this trim level.
A number of the higher level trim items and various individual options are available depending on the model chosen. Notable options include a heated front windshield with timer, adaptive cruise control and an illumination package.
The Verdict
The 2018 Jaguar XJ remains a competitive luxury sedan with styling that still impresses and a range of drivetrain options and features that keep its dynamic and luxury levels on par with newer competitors. Generous interior space for both front and rear occupants makes it a solid choice in its category.