Jaguar XJ: The Flagship Symbolizing a New Generation
CAR / NEWS
March 6, 2015

Jaguar XJ: The Flagship Symbolizing a New Generation


JAGUAR XJ


The Flagship Symbolizing a New Generation


Jaguar Land Rover Japan has unveiled the new XJ, Jaguar's flagship model.


By Fumio OgawaPhotos by Jaguar Land Rover Japan




Entire Lineup to be Refreshed Within a Year



The new XJ, the first model change in six years, focuses on a bold styling transformation and the integration of Jaguar's most powerful 510-horsepower, 5-liter engine. Scheduled for release in March 2010, orders are now being accepted.

The new XJ was unveiled at a hotel in Roppongi, Tokyo. As the styling images had been released in advance, its bold design attracted significant interest, filling the venue.

"Jaguar is now rapidly advancing the reconstruction and revitalization of its brand. We will complete the refresh of our entire lineup within the next year," stated David Bloxham, President of Jaguar Land Rover Japan, at the event. Indeed, the new XJ possesses a groundbreaking design.

Here is a summary of the new XJ's key features, as highlighted in President Bloxham's speech:

Dramatic Design
Dynamic Driving Performance
All-New Features
Supreme Craftsmanship
Body constructed from aluminum and magnesium
Cutting-edge structural technology, drawing know-how from aerospace industry applications
New generation V8 engine, embodying the pinnacle of modern technology
Exceptional fuel efficiency and significantly reduced CO2 emissions


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Three 5-Liter V8 Variants



The new XJ lineup is broadly divided into standard wheelbase (3032mm) and long wheelbase (3157mm) versions. The engine is primarily a 5-liter V8, offered in naturally aspirated (385 hp), supercharged (470 hp), and a more powerful variant (510 hp), totaling three options.

Based on the "Luxury" model (¥10 million), specifications vary across "Premium Luxury" (¥11.5 million), "Portfolio" (¥13.2 million), and the "Supersport" with the 510 hp engine (¥16.55 million). The long wheelbase version offers two variants: the "Portfolio" with a dedicated 470 hp engine (¥16 million) and the "Supersport" with 510 hp (¥17.55 million). Jaguar Land Rover Japan believes that offering detailed specifications to cater to individual customer preferences is crucial for luxury vehicles.

The styling was overseen by Ian Callum, Jaguar's Design Director since 1999. "We decided to rebuild the icon. We aimed to reinterpret the bold spirit of the original XJ for the modern era, not to be enslaved by tradition, but to approach it in a contemporary way," he stated, having flown to Japan for the announcement.

Aluminum Body Incorporating Aerospace Technology



A distinctive feature of the new XJ is its side windows, which extend dramatically to the rear, reminiscent of a fastback. Callum explained the design intent: "The powerful, low-slung body is enhanced and accentuated by the sleek roofline and pillars."

While the prominent front grille is bold, the vertical combination lamps at the rear, described as "cat's claws," serve as another distinctive design icon.

The aluminum body, which does not use welding and incorporates elements of aerospace technology, is claimed by Jaguar to be "over 150kg lighter than competing vehicles." Mike Cross, Jaguar's Chief Engineer for Vehicle Integrity, noted the benefits: "This ensures dynamic and agile performance in all conditions, as well as efficient braking."

For Jaguar owners who appreciate personalization, the XJ offers a choice of 14 body colors, 14 combinations for the fascia (including the dashboard) and seats, and a wide selection of alloy wheel designs. The careful consideration given to color palettes allows for both sporty and traditional aesthetics through seat trim alone.

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