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2006 Jaguar XJ Series Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2006 Jaguar XJ Series Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
2006 Jaguar XJ Series Review
Jaguar's biggest sedans get revised styling and a new top-line model for 2006. Base XJ8 and performance XJR models continue on a 119-inch wheelbase. XJ8 L, Vanden Plas, Super V8, and new Super V8 Portfolio use a 124-inch chassis. All models have a 4.2-liter V8. The XJ8, XJ8 L, and Vanden Plas have 300 hp. The supercharged XJR and Super V8 have 400. A 6-speed automatic is the only transmission. ABS and traction/antiskid control are standard, as are front side airbags and curtain side airbags. All models also have a load-leveling suspension with automatic-adjusting shock absorbers. The XJR has a firmer suspension than other models and unique styling cues. Vanden Plas and Super V8 versions have a more luxurious interior treatment. A DVD entertainment system with a video screen in the back of each front headrest is standard on Super V8, available on XJR. Optional are adaptive cruise control, four-zone automatic climate control, heated front and rear seats, and a navigation system. The Super V8 Portfolio is the first Jaguar sedan priced over $100,000. Portfolio has unique trim, additional leather and wood appointments, and two-passenger rear seating divided by a center console.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Large Cars are top-of-the-line sedans in size and luxury. Many are manufacturer flagships and/or showcases for the newest automotive technology. Some have 6-figure price tags.
Our Best Buys include Audi A8 and Lexus LS 430. Our Recommended pick is Cadillac DTS.
Buick Lucerne is new or significantly redesigned.
Our Best Buys include Audi A8 and Lexus LS 430. Our Recommended pick is Cadillac DTS.
Buick Lucerne is new or significantly redesigned.
News
The XJ may muscle up soon, sources say, with the base V8 pushed to some 320 hp and the supercharged version to around 450. No big changes loom in the XJ's immediate future. However, Jaguar is working to cut production costs so its flagship sedans will be more profitable, this in the face of staggering losses--some $1.1 billion in 2003 alone.
2006 Jaguar XJ Series Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Fuel economy |
| Ride/handling | Navigation-system controls |
| Quietness | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
No XJR made available for testing. Off the line, nonsupercharged models feel as quick as supercharged versions. But Super V8s noticeably stronger over 40 mph, despite occasional delay in throttle response. All are fast enough for most any need: Test XJ8 ran 6.5 sec 0-60 mph. Transmission a smooth operator, but somewhat slow to downshift unless in sport mode.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6.9 |
No XJR made available for testing. Off the line, nonsupercharged models feel as quick as supercharged versions. But Super V8s noticeably stronger over 40 mph, despite occasional delay in throttle response. All are fast enough for most any need: Test XJ8 ran 6.5 sec 0-60 mph. Transmission a smooth operator, but somewhat slow to downshift unless in sport mode.
Fuel Economy
In a mix of city/highway driving, 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.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.2 |
In a mix of city/highway driving, 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.
Ride Quality
Among world's smoothest-riding sedans. Fine balance of impact absorption, highway comfort, though not as settled as European rivals over washboard surfaces. Super V8s have more road feel, but are never jittery or harsh.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
Among world's smoothest-riding sedans. Fine balance of impact absorption, highway comfort, though not as settled as European rivals over washboard surfaces. Super V8s have more road feel, but are never jittery or harsh.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Weight-saving aluminum-intensive body construction, stiff chassis help these big cats feel nimble. Good grip in turns, little cornering lean. Steering somewhat light but linear, with good road feel, 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 strong, sure.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Weight-saving aluminum-intensive body construction, stiff chassis help these big cats feel nimble. Good grip in turns, little cornering lean. Steering somewhat light but linear, with good road feel, 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 strong, sure.
Quietness
Supercharged engine whirs faintly in rapid acceleration. Otherwise, cabin impressively hushed, free of mechanical noise, wind rush, road rumble.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
Supercharged engine whirs faintly in rapid acceleration. Otherwise, cabin impressively hushed, free of mechanical noise, wind rush, road rumble.
Controls
Typical premium large car: lots of buttons, controls. Most are clearly marked, conveniently placed. Navigation system absorbs some audio and climate functions, complicating their use. Standard steering-wheel-mounted redundant audio controls help. J-shaped shift gate's manual-mode markings obscured by gear lever. Rear-entertainment-system controls not intuitive to some testers, and DVDs load via inconvenient trunk-mounted changer and only with ignition engaged. Pleasing cabin materials on XJ8. Vanden Plas and Super V8 have upgraded wood and leather, but still trail class leaders for upscale ambience. Portfolio impresses with richer leather, higher quality trim than other XJs.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 5.9 |
Typical premium large car: lots of buttons, controls. Most are clearly marked, conveniently placed. Navigation system absorbs some audio and climate functions, complicating their use. Standard steering-wheel-mounted redundant audio controls help. J-shaped shift gate's manual-mode markings obscured by gear lever. Rear-entertainment-system controls not intuitive to some testers, and DVDs load via inconvenient trunk-mounted changer and only with ignition engaged. Pleasing cabin materials on XJ8. Vanden Plas and Super V8 have upgraded wood and leather, but still trail class leaders for upscale ambience. Portfolio impresses with richer leather, higher quality trim than other XJs.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Firm, comfortable, highly supportive seats. Head and leg room tight for the very large, but power-adjustable steering column and pedals help most adults find agreeable driving position. Visibility to rear compromised by tall trunklid.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 |
Firm, comfortable, highly supportive seats. Head and leg room tight for the very large, but power-adjustable steering column and pedals help most adults find agreeable driving position. Visibility to rear compromised by tall trunklid.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Regular-length models have adequate leg room, though toe space tight. Extended-length models' leg room is expansive; toe space unrestricted unless front seat fully back. Nicely bolstered cushions. Super V8's seatbacks adjust for angle, lumbar support. Portfolio's 2-place seating affords limousinelike accommodations, comfort.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.1 |
Regular-length models have adequate leg room, though toe space tight. Extended-length models' leg room is expansive; toe space unrestricted unless front seat fully back. Nicely bolstered cushions. Super V8's seatbacks adjust for angle, lumbar support. Portfolio's 2-place seating affords limousinelike accommodations, comfort.
Cargo Room
Plenty of usable trunk space. Lid opens wide on nonintruding hinges and has assisted soft-touch close. Large glovebox, padded map pockets highlight interior storage.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Plenty of usable trunk space. Lid opens wide on nonintruding hinges and has assisted soft-touch close. Large glovebox, padded map pockets highlight interior storage.
Value within Class
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 V8 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.
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 5.4 |
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 V8 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.
Total Score
| XJ8 | Vanden Plas | Super V8 | Super V8 Portfolio | Class Average |
| 69 | 68 | 68 | 68 | 68.4 |
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
| Low Score | 59 | |
| Average Score | 68 | |
| High Score | 79 |
2006 Jaguar XJ Series Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/26/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| XJ8 4-door sedan | $61,830 | $56,265 | $665 |
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| XJ8 L 4-door sedan | $64,330 | $58,540 | $665 |
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| Vanden Plas 4-door sedan | $74,330 | $67,640 | $665 |
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| XJR 4-door sedan | $79,330 | $72,190 | $665 |
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| Super V8 4-door sedan | $91,330 | $83,110 | $665 |
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| Super V8 Portfolio 4-door sedan | $115,330 | $104,950 | $665 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
XJ8
Powertrain
4.2-liter V8 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, rear-obstacle-detection system, emergency inside trunklid release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, power tilt/telescope wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, front bucket seats, 12-way power front seats w/power headrest and lumbar adjustment, power-adjustable pedals, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel, pedals), center console, cupholders, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/automatic day/night, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/CD player, analog clock, tachometer, trip computer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, universal garage door opener, map lights, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, xenon headlights w/washers, front and rear fog lights, computer-controlled self-leveling suspension, full-size spare tire, 235/50R18 tires, alloy wheels.
XJ8 L adds to XJ8:
Comfort and Convenience Features
5-inch-longer wheelbase, power rear sunshade.
Vanden Plas adds to XJ8 L:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, 16-way power front seats, power-folding mirrors, navigation system, Alpine sound system, 6-disc CD changer, rear-seat fold-down trays, lamb's-wool floormats.
XJR adds to Vanden Plas:
Powertrain
4.2-liter supercharged V8 engine.
Safety
Uprated brakes, front-obstacle-detection system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Adaptive cruise control, 12-way power passenger seat.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: 5-inch-longer wheelbase, 16-way power passenger seat, rear-seat fold-down trays, lamb's-wool floormats.
Sport suspension, 255/40ZR19 tires.
Super V8 adds to XJR:
Comfort and Convenience Features
4-zone automatic climate controls, 16-way power passenger seat, navigation system, DVD entertainment system, wireless cell phone link, adjustable rear seat w/power headrest and lumbar adjustment, rear-seat fold-down trays, rear control for front-passenger seat, manual side sunshades, lamb's-wool floormats, 5-inch-longer wheelbase.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: sport suspension.
Super V8 Portfolio adds to Super V8:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear center console, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, unique interior and exterior trim.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Touring suspension, 255/35ZR20 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Multimedia Pkg.
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Vanden Plas, XJR
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$2,950
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$2,508
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DVD player, two rear video screens.
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Warm Climate Pkg.
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Vanden Plas, XJR
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$1,350
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$1,148
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4-zone automatic climate controls (including rear controls), manual side sunshades.
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Cold Climate Pkg.
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XJ8, XJ8L
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$1,025
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$1,063
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Heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel.
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Safety |
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Front-obstacle-detection system
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XJ8, XJ8 L, Vanden Plas
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$250
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$213
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
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XJ8, XJ8 L
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$2,800
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$1,963
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Includes wireless cell phone link.
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Alpine sound system
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XJ8, XJ8 L
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$1,600
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$1,360
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Includes trunk-mounted 6-disc CD changer.
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Satellite radio
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Super V8, Super V8 Portfolio, Vanden Plas, XJ8, XJ8 L, XJR
|
$450
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$383
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Requires monthly fee.
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Wireless cell phone link
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Vanden Plas, XJR
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$500
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$425
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Heated front and rear seats
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XJ8, XJ8 L
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$950
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$808
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Special paint
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Super V8, Super V8 Portfolio, Vanden Plas, XJ8, XJ8 L, XJR
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$1,000
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$850
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19-inch alloy wheels
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XJ8 L
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$1,200
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$1,020
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Includes 255/40ZR19 tires.
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19-inch chrome alloy wheels
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XJ8, XJ8L, Vanden Plas
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$2,600
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$2,210
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Includes 255/40ZR19 tires.
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Chrome alloy wheels
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Super V8
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$1,400
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$1,190
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20-inch alloy wheels
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XJR, Super V8
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$4,500
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$3,825
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Includes 255/35ZR20 tires.
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2006 Jaguar XJ Series Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Jaguar XJ8, XJR 4-door sedan | Jaguar XJ8L, Vanden Plas, Super V8 4-dr sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 119.4 | 124.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 200.4 | 205.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 76.5 | 76.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.0 | 57.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3726 | 3779 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.4 | 16.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 22.5 | 22.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.4 | 38.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.1 | 43.1 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.6 | 38.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.7 | 39.3 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V8 | Supercharged dohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 4.2 /256 | 4.2 /256 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 300 @ 6000 | 400 @ 6100 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 310 @ 4100 | 413 @ 3500 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
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| 6-speed automatic | 18/27 | 17/24 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Jaguar XJ8, XJR 4-door sedan | Jaguar XJ8L, Vanden Plas, Super V8 4-dr sedan |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 1/12,000 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
England
Drivewheels:
rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2006 Jaguar XJ Series Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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