2004 Jaguar XJ Series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Jaguar's flagship is redesigned for 2004, with new styling and one body length instead of two. Curtain side airbags and a 6-speed automatic transmission are also new. The new model's wheelbase is 1.5 inches longer than that of the previous extended-length XJ, but the car is 2.7 inches shorter overall. It is also 4 inches taller and 2 inches wider, but a new aluminum body/chassis structure makes it 200 lb lighter. Three models continue, all with a 4.2-liter V8 in place of a 4.0. The base XJ8 and more luxurious Vanden Plas have 294 hp vs. 290 before. The supercharged XJR has 390 hp, plus firmer suspension, larger wheels and tires, adaptive cruise control designed to maintain a set following distance, and unique cosmetic touches. All use automatic transmission, now with 6 speeds vs. 5. ABS and antiskid/traction control are standard, as is a self-leveling air suspension with automatic-adjusting shock absorbers. Power tilt/telescopic steering wheel and front torso side airbags return, joined for '04 by standard power adjustable pedals and head-protecting curtain side airbags. Options include heated front and rear seats, a navigation system with available voice activation, and new 4-zone automatic climate control. Also available is a rear-seat entertainment system with an LCD screen in the back of each front headrest.