2003 Jaguar XJ Series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Jaguar's flagship sedans get two new option packages for a shortened 2003 season, the last for their vintage-1994 design. Redesigned 2004 XJs bow next spring. Two body lengths continue for '03. For more rear leg room, the Vanden Plas and Super V8 models add five inches to the wheelbase of the XJ8, XJ Sport, and XJR models. All have a 5-speed automatic transmission, antiskid/traction control, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, rear-obstacle detection, and front side airbags. They use a 4.0-liter V8. It has 280 hp in the XJ8, XJ Sport, and Vanden Plas. A 358-hp supercharged version goes in the sporty XJR and top-line Super V8. Standard wheel sizes are 16-inches for XJ8 and Vanden Plas, 17 for Super V8, and 18 for XJ Sport and XJR. XJ Sport and XJR also include sport seats and body-color exterior trim. The Super V8 features a softer version of the XJR's sport-oriented computer-controlled suspension, as well as a navigation system that costs extra in other XJs. For 2003, the base XJ8 offers a new Sovereign package with heated front/rear seats, premium 320-watt audio, and extra leather-and-wood interior trim. Exclusive to XJR is a new R1 Performance option with uprated Brembo-brand brakes and special wheels.

COMPETITION

With wide price ranges and numerous body configurations, this diverse segment has two clear Best Buy choices--the refined Lexus LS 430 and the unique Audi A6. The LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at around $55,000, while the A6 earns Best Buy status for its blend of space, performance, design sophistication, powertrain choices, and workmanship at prices below those of most rivals.

We Recommend the Acura RL--a steal at around $45,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. If you are looking for something a bit more sporting, we Recommend BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the roomy Cadillac DeVille.