The Jaguar XJ has been around since the late sixties. For most of that time, it featured a very definitive three-box look. Even as the other areas of the XJ saw significant changes, the model could always be distinguished by its traditional appearance.
As a result, Jaguar and specifically the XJ -- developed a stigma of being a bit old-fashioned, but that all changed with the current generation of styling. The fresh exterior is progressive and the sweeping lines are certainly a departure from the past models.
For 2013, the base model receives a more fuel efficient V6 and a new, intelligent all-wheel drive system. An eight-speed transmission is mated to all engines in the range and a start/stop system is standard on most models.
DESIGN
This mid-cycle refresh has not affected the exterior at all - Jaguar felt the current, bold styling was popular enough with buyers.
The XJs body is dominated by its rearward sloping roof, giving it an almost four-door coupe appearance. The panoramic glass moonroof provides a pleasing element both inside and out.
This is also the area where you will find the cars most polarizing aesthetic feature: its blacked-out C-pillars. These are meant to visually give the impression the windows seamlessly wrap all the way around the car.
However, it may be what you cant see about the body which has the most interesting news; Jaguar utilizes aluminium body panels to make the XJ one the lightest cars in this class.
PERFORMANCE
The most notable change with this mid-cycle overhaul is the loss of the naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 from the base model. It has been replaced by a more fuel efficient supercharged V6, which will also power the new F-Type sports car.
The 3.0-litre engine produces 340-hp and 332 ft-lbs of torque while achieving combined fuel economy of 10.8L/100km. Even though horsepower is down 45-hp, the architecture is based on Jaguars acclaimed V8s to provide a refined and smooth power delivery.
Potentially, the most exciting change for the 2013 XJ is the addition of Jaguars Instinctive All-Wheel Drive system, standard on V6 models. This enhances all-season traction while keeping the sporty agility and steering feel of a rear-wheel drive car. In dry conditions, it has a rear bias, but the system can transfer 50 per cent of the torque to the front wheels if need be.
ENVIRONMENT
The cabin is fresh and an enjoyable place to spend time, ever after a long drive. Gorgeous leather and wood treatments adorn most surfaces, even the inside of the glove box and centre storage.
While previous XJs appeared large on the outside, interior space was in fact limited compared to its rivals. This is not an issue for the current XJ, especially with the long-wheelbase models. Rear leg and headroom is ample and theres plenty of space upfront for even the tallest drivers.
The central touch-screen display is good, but the XJs German rivals boast better units. Also, some trim pieces, the air vents for example, arent up to the same quality as its competitors. The updated navigation system and Meridian stereo are welcome improvements.
Another weakness of previous XJs, trunk volume, has been corrected with the current generation; at 520-litres, its trunk size is more than the BMW 7-Series offering.
FEATURES
The 2013 Jaguar XJ ranges in price from $89,000 to $128,500.
Standard equipment includes a 8 full colour HD touchscreen display, voice activated controls, front and rear parking aid with touch-screen visual indicator, rearview camera, blind spot monitor, dual-zone climate control, power operated trunk, Sirius satellite radio, navigation system with HDD mapping, keyless entry and keyless start
Additional features, available as options or as part of packages, include 20x20 adjustable front seats with massage, adaptive headlights, adaptive cruise control, heated windshield, and extensive upholstery and trim choices.
Fuel efficiency numbers for the XJ AWD and the XJL Portfolio are 13.0L/100km city, 8.1L/100km highway and 10.8L/100km combined. The numbers for XJ/XJL Supercharged and XJ/XJL Supersport are 14.2L/100km city, 8.6L/100km highway, and 11.7L/100km combined.
