2004-2008 Jaguar XJ Series: Road Test

Off the line, the nonsupercharged XJ's feel as quick as the supercharged versions. But the Super V8s are noticeably stronger over 40 mph, despite an occasional delay in throttle response. The supercharged engine whirs faintly in rapid acceleration. All engine and body style choices are fast enough for most any need. Our test XJ8 ran 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds. The transmission a smooth operator, but is somewhat slow to downshift unless it is in sport mode. In a mix of city/highway driving, our test XJ8s averaged 15-18.3 mpg, XJ8 L 18.4. In tests that included mostly highway miles, Vanden Plas averaged 19.7 mpg, Super V8 20.6. All models require premium-grade fuel. We have not tested an XJR. XJ is among the world's smoothest-riding sedans. It exhibits a fine balance of impact absorption and highway comfort, though it isn't as settled as European rivals over washboard surfaces. Super V8s have more road feel, but are never jittery or harsh. The weight-saving aluminum-intensive body construction and stiff chassis help these big cats feel nimble. Grip in turns is good, and there is little cornering lean. Steering feels somewhat light, but it is linear and has good road feel and great straightline tracking, though one test XJ8 required frequent directional corrections at highway speed. Extended-length models add little weight and handle nearly the same as regular-length models. Brakes are strong and sure. Inside, the ambience is typical premium large car: lots of buttons and controls. Most are clearly marked and conveniently placed. The navigation system absorbs some audio and climate functions, complicating their use. Standard steering-wheel-mounted redundant audio controls help. The J-shaped shift gate's manual-mode markings are obscured by the gear lever, making it uninviting to use. The entertainment-system controls aren't intuitive, and DVDs load via an inconveniently placed trunk-mounted changer (and only with the ignition engaged). The base XJ8 has pleasing cabin materials; the Vanden Plas and Super V8 have upgraded wood and leather, but still trail class leaders for upscale feel. The topline Super V8 Portfolio model impresses with richer leather, higher quality trim than other XJs. All XJs are impressively hushed, free of mechanical noise, wind rush, road rumble. Up front, the seats are firm, comfortable, and highly supportive. Head and leg room can be tight for very large occupants, but the power-adjustable steering column and pedals help most adults find an agreeable driving position. Visibility to the rear is somewhat compromised by the tall trunklid. In back, the regular-length models have adequate leg room, though toe space is tight. The extended-length models' leg room is expansive and toe space is unrestricted unless the front seat is set fully back. In either body style, the seat cushions are nicely bolstered. The Super V8's seatbacks add more comfort options, adjusting for angle and lumbar support. The Portfolio's two-place seating affords limousinelike accommodations, comfort. No matter the body length, the trunk has plenty of usable space. The lid opens wide on nonintruding hinges and closes with an assisted soft-touch. A large glovebox and padded map pockets highlight the XJ's good interior storage.

Value for the Money
Ford owns Jaguar, and the British marque's special character feels watered down in the XJ. Still, this is a solid enough luxury sedan, and tends to undercut most rivals on price. The XJ8 versions are the best value within the XJ lineup. XJ8 L, Vanden Plas, and Super V8s add limousinelike rear-seat room without penalizing performance. The Super V8 Portfolio takes Jaguar well over the $100,000 line, going head-to-head with 12-cylinder models with better-established resale histories from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.