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The Basics:
Scratch those ideas and notions you've been harboring about Jaguar as past its prime. It's only just coming into it. The XK? Fantastic on all fronts. The XF? A stunner, and a true challenger to the E-Class and 5-Series, at long last.
But what about the big, frumpy XJ? Ah, that's the best hook of the story. Jaguar's ditched the XJ's old hoop skirts and semi-Victorian garb for some ultra-chic evening wear, convincingly evoking swinging London and hipster L.A. more than anything you've ever seen wearing its initials.
Frankly, it's long overdue--the XJ felt completely modern when it switched to an aluminum body in 2004--but now it's at long last a stunning, sexy sedan true to the current Jaguar form. And with the sheen of performance layered on by a marvelous 5.0-liter V-8, it's at the very top of any luxury sedan shopper's must-drive list.
Likes:
- Youthful, exuberant styling inside and out
- Rippling, muscular V-8 engines
- A high-tech playground for drivers and passengers
- Feels light-years lighter than other luxury four-doors
Dislikes:
- D-pillar styling: do you have anything other than black?
- Back-seat space isn't as spacious as expected; neither's the trunk room
- Dash dances a fine line between glamour and glitz
Other Choices:
Reason Why:
Radical new looks make some of the 2011 Jaguar XJ's competitors look fusty--but there's something to recommend each one. The Audi A8 is the only other aluminum-space-frame luxury sedan, though Audi's particular construction techniques and standard all-wheel drive makes it much heavier. The Lexus LS 460 is a prime target for the new XJ, since it's adopted an "L-finesse" exterior shape that appeals to a more feminine take on luxury. The Mercedes-Benz CLS has coupe-like lines and a lavishly trimmed interior; it's also offered in an AMG edition that's more powerful than the Supersport XJ.
The Bottom Line:
The 2011 Jaguar XJ severs ties with its past, and rocks a mod new look that suits its dynamic personality.
This 2011 Jaguar XJ Review originally appeared at TheCarConnection.com where you can see more photos and news on the Jaguar XJ
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