XJ hits road... as a BMW

Text: Jack Rix / Photos: SB Medien

18th May 2009

It takes more than a new nose to throw us off the scent! Jaguar has followed a novel approach to disguise the latest prototype of the imminent XJ – by grafting a BMW grille on to the front.

Our spies weren’t confused by the twin-kidney air intake on the luxury saloon, though, as there were plenty of other clues that this is a near-production-ready version of the flagship. A bonnet bulge – similar to that on the XF – is clearly visible, as is the low, coupé-like roofline. Jaguar design chief Ian Callum has promised that the XJ will be even more radical than the XF, although the two models will share a family resemblance.

Under the skin, the new car gets a re-engineered version of the current XJ’s lightweight aluminium spaceframe chassis, so despite being bigger than the XF, it’s expected to weigh roughly the same. Engines will include Jag’s new 271bhp 3.0-litre twin-turbo diesel, plus 385bhp naturally aspirated and 503bhp supercharged versions of the 5.0-litre petrol V8. The XJ is scheduled for a world debut at a special event in London on 9 July – and Auto Express will be there to bring you all the details as they unfold.