Skip advert
Advertisement

Jaguar XJ (X350)

Built: 2003-09, number sold: 295,365 to date, cool cat rating: 3/5

The seventh-generation XJ brought Jaguar’s flagship saloon right up to date. Launched in 2003, the car – codenamed X350 – had curvaceous styling that bore a strong resemblance to the previous model. But as it drew on the resources of then owner Ford, this XJ was a true 21st century Jaguar.

The chassis was made of aluminium, so was 40 per cent lighter yet 60 per cent stiffer than that of its predecessor. Plus, air-suspension and a more spacious interior ensured the newcomer could truly compete with its class-leading German rivals.

After an absence of several years, this XJ saw the return of the six-cylinder engine – with the 3.0-litre V6 used in the S and X-Type offered alongside 3.5 and 4.2-litre V8s. Diesel was starting to dominate this class in Europe at the time, so in 2005, a 2.7-litre twin-turbo oil-burner was introduced. The following year, Jaguar carried out a styling update, cleaning up the shape with flush glass and fewer trim mouldings.

Further small cosmetic changes were introduced in 2007, and with the all-new XJ set to arrive in showrooms next year, the last few examples of the existing car come with either the 2.7-litre diesel or a supercharged 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine. Yet although the X350 is on the way out, and represents the last of the retro-designed Jaguars, it deserves its place in our line-up. It pioneered the aluminium body construction that
will also underpin the dramatic new car.

What’s more, the outgoing XJ was the final Jaguar to have been produced at the famous Browns Lane factory in Coventry, which has now closed. The black model in our pictures was the first production X350 to roll off the line in December 2002, and was delivered straight to the museum.

Details

WHY: Aluminium chassis pioneer was also the last of the Browns Lane line!

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,038 off RRP*Used from £13,172
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £37,230Avg. savings £3,710 off RRP*Used from £15,416
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,763 off RRP*Used from £11,895
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,480Avg. savings £1,864 off RRP*Used from £6,700
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!
Skoda Octavia vRS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!

A three-time Auto Express Family Car of the Year winner, paired with Golf GTI power, is our Deal of the Day for 6 July
News
6 Jul 2025