Jaguar XJ

The new Jag, code-named X350, will go on sale in the UK in autumn 2003 with left-hand-drive models following in spring 2004. So far, Jaguar has already invested some 25 months into the X350 project. The new car will be slightly longer than today's five-metre saloon and has a higher roofline, swept-back windscreen, thicker body side sections, longer wheelbase and higher road stance. Built-quality, design, safety, handling and comfort will be improved compared to the car the X350 replaces, to make it a tougher competitor to the world's best-selling luxury car, the Mercedes S-class. The front end of the new XJ best demonstrates the changes compared to the current car of which the roots go back to the first XJ released in 1968:

Auto Express Car Reviews

By ©Automedia

September 2002

The characteristically long rear overhang of the current XJ will continue on the new model which allows a decent-sized boot. However, aluminium bodywork will be used to help push weight below 1600kg. Instead of being welded together the structure will be bonded with aerospace adhesives, aided by rivets, just like the Lotus Elise and Aston Martin Vanquish.

The current entry-level 3.2- and top-end 4-litre units will get extra capacity, revised internals and remapped ignition settings to help boost power and torque outputs. By extending the stroke, the current 3.2-litre engine will become a 3.5-litre, delivering some 250 HP while the 4-litre unit goes up to 4.3 litres and 300 HP.