Intro: To compete in the modern luxury sedan game, brands are forced to reinvent their image. This is no more evident than in the 2011 Jaguar XJ full-size flagship luxury sedan.
While the previous XJ had few significant design changes over the past thirty years, the 2011 XJ is a radical new design that turns the once-staid XJ image on its head. At first glance, you may not even recognize this as a descendent of the iconic Jaguar saloons. But rest assured it has all the power, grace, and luxury amenities one would expect from the Leaping Cat.
Performance: The XJ can be had with one of three potent 5.0-liter V8 setups. The standard 5-liter V8 makes 385 horsepower. A step up is the supercharged version of this V8 making 470 horsepower, while the Supersport model runs the same engine, but tuned out to 510 horsepower. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy: Here are the highest and lowest EPA estimates for fuel economy:
Features: With a press of the starter button the XJ's V8 comes alive, and the driver is met by the pop-up shift selector. Looking to the dash, the wood trim wraps around the front of the dash, giving the XJ's cabin a boat-like feel.
Traditional design elements like the chrome analog clock in the center stack blend well with modern tech features such as a backup camera and the digital instrument panel. Though it may appear to be an old-school gauge cluster, this 12.3-inch LCD display provides a wealth of vehicle operating information ranging from parking assist visuals to the status of the standard 600-watt stereo.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include dynamic stability control, a tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking aid, blind spot monitor, and a full array of front and side impact airbags.
Pricing: Base MSRP for the 2011 Jaguar XJ is $72,700. A range-topping XJL Supersport starts at $113,200.
Warranty: The XJ is backed by a 5-year, 50,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Summary: With a complete redesign, three potent V8's, and the latest in-car technology, the 2011 Jaguar XJ is a true luxury flagship for the 21st century.