2008 Jaguar XJ-Series

Sure, it's getting old, and sure, it's a bit backward-looking in both its style and its equipment, but there's a lot here to love. The ride and handling balance still makes every other car on the road seem brutish and crude. The interior is classically upright and comfortable, no matter how large or small you are. And if you don't feel even a little bit special staring out over that long, flat hood, then you have no pulse.

Still, the XJ is getting old, and there's no arguing that it's hugely in need of an update. The latest visual refresh - complete with tacky nose job and BMW M3-like bumper scoop - has done nothing but clutter the car's dignified, sporting front end. It's a case of too much makeup and not enough actual thought.

It looks like Jaguar hired an aftermarket tuner to revise the Jaguar XJ for 2008, with cheap, cheesy modifications at front and rear. The new, bulky front fascia might draw inspiration to an E46 BMW M3, but it comes off as the afterthought that it is. The new grille design is less disappointing, but it's also very retro, paying homage to the original XJ6. In the rear, only a small lip spoiler hints that this sedan has been revised and inside, nothing is different at all.

Feature for feature, the Jaguar XJ sedan represents one of the best values among full-size luxury cars. Jaguar's flagship offers features and comfort comparable to the top-line luxury sedans from Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz for thousands less. Yet it makes a strong statement of luxury when it rolls up to a five-star hotel, stronger than some of those other marques muster.

For 2008, the XJ value equation improves further. Also for 2008, the XJ's looks have been updated to match recent Jaguar offerings.

New for 2008: The front bumper and grille are revised, the front fenders add power vents, a small rear spoiler is added, and most XJ models get larger wheels and tires. Inside, the seats are redesigned for better comfort and more rear seat foot room, Sirius satellite radio becomes an option on all models, and heated and cooled seats become standard on three of the five models.