Jaguar XJ

Jaguar XJ
Jaguar XJR (X351)
Overview
Manufacturer	Jaguar Cars
Production	1968–present
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size luxury car (F)
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive

The Jaguar XJ is a series of full-size luxury cars produced by British automobile manufacturer Jaguar Cars (becoming Jaguar Land Rover in 2013) since 1968 across four basic platform generations (debuting in 1968, 1986, 2003 and 2009) with various updated derivatives of each. Since 1970 they have been Jaguar's flagship four door model. The original model was the last Jaguar saloon to have had the input of Sir William Lyons, the company's founder, and the model has been featured in countless media and high-profile appearances. The current XJ (X351) was launched in 2009. It is one of the cars used by the British royal family and an armoured version is used for transporting the UK Prime Minister.

Series 1, 2 and 3 (1968–1992)

The original first-generation of the XJ was produced for a total period of 24 years, with two major facelifts in 1973 and 1979. Retrospectively, these are often known as "Series" XJs among the Jaguar enthusiast community.

Series 1 (1968–1973)

XJ Series I
Overview
Also called	Jaguar XJ6/XJ12 Daimler Sovereign Daimler Double-Six
Production	1968–1973 82,126 produced
Assembly	Coventry, England Cape Town, South Africa Nelson, New Zealand
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Powertrain
Engine	2.8 L XK6 I6 4.2 L XK I6 5.3 L Jaguar V12 (from 1972)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,762 mm (108.75 in) lwb: sold from 1972: 2,864 mm (112.75 in)
Length	4,813 mm (189.5 in) lwb: sold from 1972: 4,915 mm (193.5 in)
Width	1,772 mm (69.75 in)
Height	1,340 mm (52.75 in)
Chronology
Predecessor	Jaguar 240, Jaguar 340 Daimler 250 Jaguar S-Type Jaguar 420 and Daimler Sovereign Jaguar 420G

The XJ6, using the 2.8-litre (2,792 cc (170.4 cu in)) and 4.2-litre (4,235 cc (258.4 cu in)) straight-six cylinder versions of Jaguar's renowned XK engine, replaced most of Jaguar's saloons – which, in the 1960s, had expanded to four separate ranges. Apart from the engines, other main assemblies carried over from previous models were the widest version of Jaguar's IRS unit from the Mark X and the subframe mounted independent front suspension first seen in the 1955 Mark 1 with new anti-dive geometry.

Jaguar XJ6 (Early Series I model)

An upmarket version was marketed under the Daimler brand as the Daimler Sovereign, continuing the name from the Daimler version of the Jaguar 420.

The car was introduced in September 1968. Power-assisted steering and leather upholstery were standard on the 2.8 L De Luxe and 4.2 L models and air conditioning was offered as an optional extra on the 4.2 L. Daimler versions which were launched in October 1969, in a series of television advertisements featuring Sir William. In these advertisements, he referred to the car as "the finest Jaguar ever". An unusual feature, inherited from the Mark X and S-Type saloons, was the provision of twin fuel tanks, positioned on each side of the boot / trunk, and filled using two separately lockable filler caps: one on the top of each wing above the rear wheel arches. Preliminary reviews of the car were favourable, noting the effective brakes and good ride quality.

In March 1970, it was announced that the Borg-Warner Model 8 automatic transmission, which the XJ6 had featured since 1968, would be replaced on the 4.2-litre XJ6 with a Borg-Warner Model 12 unit. The new transmission now had three different forward positions accessed via the selector lever, which effectively enabled performance oriented drivers to hold lower ratios at higher revs to achieve better acceleration. "Greatly improved shift quality" was also claimed for the new system.

Around this time, minor changes were made as well, such as moving the rear reflectors from beside to below the rear lights; on the interior the chrome gauge bezels were changed for black ones, to cut down on distracting reflections.

In 1972, the option of a long-wheelbase version, providing a 4 inch increase in leg room for passengers on the rear seats, became available.

The XJ12 version was announced in July 1972, featuring simplified grille treatment, and powered by a 5.3 L V12 engine (coupled to a Borg Warner Model 12 transmission). The car as presented at that time was the world's only mass-produced 12-cylinder four-door car, and, with a top speed of "around 140 mph" (225 km/h) as the "fastest full four-seater available in the world today". Although it had been the manufacturer's intention from launch that the XJ would take the twelve-cylinder engine, its installation was nonetheless a tight fit, and providing adequate cooling had evidently been a challenge for the engineers designing the installation. Bonnet/hood louvres such as those fitted on the recently introduced twelve-cylinder E Type were rejected, but the XJ12 featured a complex "cross-flow" radiator divided into two separated horizontal sections and supported with coolant feeder tanks at each end: the engine fan was geared to rotate at 1¼ times the speed of the engine rpm, subject to a limiter which cut in at a (fan) speed of 1,700 rpm. The fuel system incorporated a relief valve that returned fuel to the tank when pressure in the leads to the carburetters exceeded 1.5 psi to reduce the risk of vapour locks occurring at the engine's high operating temperature, while the car's battery, unusually, benefited from its own thermostatically controlled cooling fan.

The Jaguar XJ12, launched during the summer of 1972, featured a simplified grille

3,235 units of the first generation XJ12s were built. A badge-engineered version, the Daimler Double-Six, was introduced in 1972, reviving the Daimler model name of 1926–1938.

Total production figures for the Series 1

Model	Production
Jaguar XJ6 2.8 swb	19,322
Jaguar XJ6 4.2 swb	59,077
Jaguar XJ6 4.2 lwb	574
Jaguar XJ12 swb	2,474
Jaguar XJ12 lwb	754
Daimler Sovereign 2.8	3,233
Daimler Sovereign 4.2 swb	11,522
Daimler Sovereign 4.2 lwb	386
Daimler Double Six swb	534
Daimler Double Six Vanden Plas	351
Total Production for Series 1	98,227

Series 2 (1973–1979)

XJ Series II
Overview
Also called	Jaguar XJ6 & XJ12 Jaguar XJ 3.4, XJ 4.2 & XJ 5.3 Daimler Sovereign Daimler Double-Six
Production	1973–1979 (1981) 91,227 produced
Assembly	Coventry, England Cape Town, South Africa Nelson, New Zealand
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Powertrain
Engine	2.8 L XK6 I6 3.4 L XK6 I6 4.2 L XK6 I6 5.3 L Jaguar V12 engine
Dimensions
Wheelbase	(swb: only sold until 1974) 2,762 mm (108.75 in) (lwb until 1974: thereafter all sedans) 2,864 mm (112.75 in)
Length	4,947 mm (194.75 in)
Width	1,772 mm (69.75 in)
Height	1,372 mm (54 in)
Kerb weight	1,742 kg (3,841 lb)

Commonly referred to as the "Series II", the XJ line received a facelift in autumn 1973 for the 1974 model year. The 4.2 L XJ6 straight-6 engine (most popular in the United Kingdom) and the 5.3 L V12 XJ12 were continued with an addition of a 3.4 L (3,442 cc (210.0 cu in)) version of the XK engine available from 1975.

Initially the Series II was offered with two wheelbases, but at the 1974 London Motor Show Jaguar announced the withdrawal of the standard wheelbase version: subsequent saloons/sedans all featured the extra 4 inches (10 cm) of passenger cabin length hitherto featured only on the long-wheelbase model. By this time, the first customer deliveries of the two-door coupe, which retained the shorter standard-wheelbase (and which had already been formally launched more than a year earlier) were only months away.

Visually, Series II cars are differentiated from their predecessors by raised front bumpers to meet US crash safety regulations, which necessitated a smaller grille, complemented by a discreet additional inlet directly below the bumper. The interior received a substantial update, including simplified heating and a/c systems to address criticisms of the complex and not very effective Series I systems.

In April 1975, the North American Series II got a slightly revised set of front bumpers which had rubber over-riders covering the full length of the bumper with embedded turn signals at each end. In 1975 V12 XJS / XJ12L / XJ12C cars and in 1978 the 4.2 6 cyl. XJ6L North American cars got the addition of Bosch-Lucas electronic fuel injection in the place of Zenith-Stromberg carburettors.

In May 1977, it was announced that automatic transmission version of the 12-cylinder cars would be fitted with a General Motors three-speed THM 400 transmission in place of the British-built Borg-Warner units used hitherto.

The 1978 UK model range included the Jaguar XJ 3.4, XJ 4.2, XJ 5.3, Daimler Sovereign 4.2, Double-Six 5.3, Daimler Vanden Plas 4.2 and Double-Six Vanden Plas 5.3.

In New Zealand, knock-down kits of the Series II were assembled locally by the New Zealand Motor Corporation (NZMC) at their Nelson plant. In the last year of production in New Zealand (1978), a special 'SuperJag' (XJ6-SLE) model was produced which featured half leather, half dralon wide pleat seats, vinyl roof, chrome steel wheels and air conditioning as standard. New Zealand produced models featured speedometers in km/h, and the black vinyl mats sewn onto the carpets in the front footwells featured the British Leyland 'L' logo.

Though worldwide production of the Series II ended in 1979, a number were produced in Cape Town, South Africa until 1981.

A total of 91,227 Series II models were produced, 14,226 with the V12 engine.

Engines

Years	Type	Capacity	Horsepower
1973–75	DOHC I-6	2,792 (171 cu. in.)	140 Cv/Din
1975–79	DOHC I-6	3,442 (210 cu. in.)	160 Cv/Din
1973–79	DOHC I-6	4,235 (258 cu. in.)	186 Cv/Din - 172 Cv/Din See Note
1973–79	SOHC V12	5,343 (326 cu. in.)	269 Cv/Din See Note

Note: HP varies depending on emission standards imposed on particular vehicles

Production count

Year	XJ6	XJ12
1973	1,488	168
1974	13,526	4,744
1975	11,990	2,239
1976	12,157	3,283
1977	9,043	1,913
1978	12,138	3,284
1979	1,099	429
Total	61,441	16,060

Short-Long wheelbase

Model	Swb	Lwb
Jaguar XJ6 3.4	-	6,490
Jaguar XJ6 4.2	12,370	50,912
Jaguar XJ12 5.3	-	14,226
Total	12,370	71,628

XJ Coupé

XJ-Coupé
Overview
Also called	Jaguar XJ-C, XJ6-C, XJ12-C Jaguar XJ4.2C Jaguar XJ5.3C Daimler Sovereign Coupé Daimler Double-Six Coupé
Production	1975–1978 10,487 produced
Assembly	Coventry, England
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door coupé
Powertrain
Engine	4.2 L XK6 I6 5.3 L Jaguar V12
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,762 mm (108.75 in)
Length	4,845 mm (190.75 in)
Width	1,772 mm (69.75 in)
Height	1,375 mm (54.125 in)
Kerb weight	1,837 kg (4,050 lb)

A 9,378 car production run of two-door XJ coupés with a pillarless hardtop body called the XJ-C was built between 1975 and 1978. The car was actually launched at the London Motor Show in October 1973, but it subsequently became clear that it was not ready for production, and the economic troubles unfolding in the western world at this time seem to have reduced further any sense of urgency about producing and selling the cars: it was reported that problems with window sealing delayed production. XJ coupés finally started to emerge from Jaguar show-rooms only some two years later. The coupé was based on the short-wheelbase version of the XJ. The coupé's elongated doors were made out of a lengthened standard XJ front door (the weld seams are clearly visible under the interior panels where two front door shells were grafted together with a single outer skin). A few XJ-C cars were modified by Lynx Cars and Avon into a convertible body style with a retractable canvas top, but this was not a factory product. Lynx conversions (16 in total) did benefit from powered tops. Both six and twelve-cylinder models were offered, 6,505 of the former and 1,873 of the latter were made. Even with the delay, these cars suffered from water leaks and wind noise. The delayed introduction, the labour-intensive work required by the modified saloon body, the higher price than the four-door car, and the early demise promulgated by the new XJ-S, all ensured a small production run.

All coupes came with a vinyl roof as standard. Since the coupe lacked B-pillars, the roof flexed enough that the paint used by Jaguar at the time would develop cracks. More modern paints do not suffer such problems, so whenever a coupé is repainted it is viable to remove the vinyl. Today many XJ-Cs no longer have their vinyl roof, also removing the threat of roof rust. Some owners also modified their XJ-C by changing to Series III bumpers. This lifted the front indicators from under the bumper and provided built in rear fog lights.

A small number of Daimler versions of the XJ-C were made. One prototype Daimler Vanden Plas version XJ-C was also made, however this version never went into production.

Production Count

Model \ Year	1973	1974	1975	1976	1977	1978	Total
4.2 L Coupe	2	1	2,925	1,746	1,776	37	6,487
5.3 L Coupe	-	11	821	663	329	31	1,855
Daimler Sovereign Coupe	-	-	471	587	613	6	1,677
Daimler Double Six Coupe	-	1	76	149	159	22	407
Total	2	13	4,293	3,145	2,877	96	10,426

Series 3 (1979–1992)

XJ Series III
Jaguar XJ12 Series III
Overview
Also called	Jaguar XJ6, XJ12 Daimler Sovereign Daimler Vanden Plas Daimler Double-Six Double-Six Vanden Plas Jaguar Sovereign (from 1983) Jaguar Vanden Plas
Production	1979–1992 132,952 produced
Assembly	Coventry, England
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Powertrain
Engine	3.4 L XK6 I6 4.2 L XK6 I6 5.3 L Jaguar V12 engine

Series III Jaguar Sovereign V12 (rear view)

In April 1979, the XJ6 received a facelift again and was known as the "Series III." Using the long-wheelbase version of the car, the XJ6 incorporated a subtle redesign by Pininfarina.

Externally, the most obvious changes over the Series II were the thicker and more incorporated rubber bumpers with decorative chrome only on the top edge, flush door handles for increased safety, a one-piece front door glass without a separate 1/4 light, a grille with only vertical vanes, reverse lights moved from the boot plinth to the larger rear light clusters and a revised roofline with narrower door frames and increased glass area.

There were three engine variants, including the 5.3 L V12, the 4.2 L straight-six and 3.4 L straight-six. The larger six-cylinder, and V12 models incorporated Bosch fuel injection (made under licence by Lucas) while the smaller six-cylinder was carbureted. The smaller 3.4 L six-cylinder engine was not offered in the US.

The short-wheelbase saloon and coupé had been dropped during the final years of the Series II XJ. The introduction of the Series III model also saw the option of a sunroof and cruise control for the first time on an XJ model.

The 1979 UK model range included the Jaguar XJ6 3.4 & 4.2, XJ12 5.3, Daimler Sovereign 4.2 & Double-Six 5.3 and Daimler Vanden Plas 4.2 & Double-Six Vanden Plas 5.3.

In 1981 the 5.3 V12 models received the new Michael May designed "fireball" high compression cylinder head engines and were badged from this time onwards to 1985 as HE (High Efficiency) models.

In late 1981, the Daimler Sovereign and Double Six models received a minor interior upgrade for the 1982 model year with features similar to Vanden Plas models. Also for the 1982 model year, a top spec "Jaguar" Vanden Plas model was introduced for the US market - a model designation still used today.

In late 1982, the interior of all Series III models underwent a minor update for the 1983 model year. A trip computer appeared for the first time and was fitted as standard on V12 models. A new and much sought-after alloy wheel featuring numerous distinctive circular holes was also introduced, commonly known as the "pepperpot" wheel. The Series III XJ saloon also saw the introduction of Pirelli tyres as standard equipment.

In late 1983, revision and changes were made across the Series III model range for the 1984 model year, with the Sovereign name being transferred from Daimler to a new top specification Jaguar model, the "Jaguar Sovereign". A base Jaguar XJ12 was no longer available, with the V12 engine only being offered as a Jaguar Sovereign HE or Daimler Double Six. The Vanden Plas name was also dropped at this time in the UK market, due to Jaguar being sold by BL and the designation being used on top-of-the-range Rover-branded cars in the home UK market. Daimler models became the Daimler 4.2 and Double Six and were the most luxurious XJ Series III models, being fully optioned with Vanden Plas spec interiors.

The 1984 UK model range included the Jaguar XJ6 3.4 & 4.2, Sovereign 4.2 & 5.3, Daimler 4.2 & Double Six 5.3.

Production of the Series III XJ6 continued until early 1987 and on till 1992 with the V12 engine. In 1992, the last 100 cars built were numbered and sold as part of a special series commemorating the end of production for Canada. These 100 cars featured the option of having a brass plaque located in the cabin. It was the original purchaser's option to have this plaque, which also gave a number to the car (such as No. 5 of 100, etc.), fitted to the glove box, to the console woodwork or not fitted at all. This brass plaque initiative did not come from Jaguar in Coventry. It was a local effort by Jaguar Canada staff and the brass plaques were engraved locally.

132,952 Series III cars were built, 10,500 with the V12 engine. In total between 1968 and 1992 there were around 318,000 XJ6 and XJ12 cars produced.

Technical specifications

Technical data Jaguar XJ series 1 to 3 (European market except where stated)
Jaguar	Series 1 2.8	Series 1 4.2	Series 1 XJ12	Series 2 2.8	Series 2 3.4	Series 2 4.2 & XJ6C	Series 2 XJ12 & XJ12C	Series 3 3.4	Series 3 4.2	Series 3 XJ12
Chassis code:	1G	1L (LWB:2E)	1P (LWB: 2C)	2U	3A	2N (LWB: 2T, XJC: 2J)	2R (XJC: 2G)	A	P, R, N	W, Y, V, X
Produced:	1968–1973	1968–1973	1972–1973	1973–1974	1975–1979	1973–1979	1973–1979	1979–1984	1979–1986	1979–1992
Units sold*:	19,426	59,556	3235	170	6490	69,687	16,099	Unknown	122,453	10,500
Engine:	2792 cc XK I6	4235 cc XK I6	5343 cc V12	2792 cc XK I6	3442 cc XK I6	4235 cc XK I6	5343 cc V12	3442 cc XK I6	4235 cc XK I6	5343 cc V12
Bore x stroke:	83 mm (3.3 in) x 86 mm (3.4 in)	92.07 mm (3.6 in) x 106 mm (4.2 in)	90 mm (3.5 in) x 70 mm (2.8 in)	83 mm (3.3 in) x 86 mm (3.4 in)	83 mm (3.3 in) x 106 mm (4.2 in)	92.07 mm (3.6 in) x 106 mm (4.2 in)	90 mm (3.5 in) x 70 mm (2.8 in)	83 mm (3.3 in) x 106 mm (4.2 in)	92.07 mm (3.6 in) x 106 mm (4.2 in)	90 mm (3.5 in) x 70 mm (2.8 in)
Max. power at rpm:	140 hp (104 kW) at 5,500	186 hp (139 kW) at 4,500	250 hp (186 kW) at 6,000	140 hp (104 kW) at 5,500	161 hp (120 kW) at 5,000	172 hp (128 kW) at 4,500	258 hp (192 kW) at 6,000, later 285 hp (213 kW) at 5,750	163 hp (122 kW) at 5,000	205 hp (153 kW) at 5,000	285 hp (213 kW) at 5,750, later 295 hp (220 kW) at 5,500
Max. torque at rpm:	192 N⋅m (142 lb⋅ft) at 4,250	313 N⋅m (231 lb⋅ft) at 3,000	408 N⋅m (301 lb⋅ft) at 3,500	192 N⋅m (142 lb⋅ft) at 4,250	256 N⋅m (189 lb⋅ft) at 3,500	313 N⋅m (231 lb⋅ft) at 3,000	408 N⋅m (301 lb⋅ft) at 3,500, later 399 N⋅m (294 lb⋅ft) at 3,500	256 N⋅m (189 lb⋅ft) at 3,500	313 N⋅m (231 lb⋅ft) at 3,000	399 N⋅m (294 lb⋅ft) at 3,500, later 432 N⋅m (319 lb⋅ft) at 3,250
Compression ratio:	8.5: 1	7.8: 1	9.0: 1	8.5: 1	8.5: 1	7.8: 1	9.0: 1	8.5: 1	8.1: 1	9.0: 1 later 12.5: 1
Fueling:	2x SU HD8, later 2x SU HS8 (US 4.2: 2x Stromberg 175 CD)		4x Stromberg 175 CD	2x SU HS8	2x SU HIF7 (US 4.2: 2x Stromberg 175 CD)		4x Stromberg 175 CD, later Lucas EFI	2x SU HIF7	Lucas-Bosch L-Jetronic	Lucas EFI
Valvetrain:	DOHC 12v, duplex chain		2x SOHC 24v, duplex chain	DOHC 12v, duplex chain			2x SOHC 24v, duplex chain	DOHC 12v, duplex chain		2x SOHC 24v, duplex chain
Fuel tank capacity:	2x 45.5 L (12.0 US gal; 10.0 imp gal)
Cooling:	Water cooling with engine driven fan
Transmission:	RWD 4 speed manual with optional overdrive or Borg-Warner 3 speed automatic		RWD Borg-Warner 3 speed automatic	RWD 4 speed manual with optional overdrive or Borg-Warner 3 speed automatic			RWD Borg-Warner/GM 3 speed automatic	RWD 5 speed manual or Borg-Warner 3 speed automatic		RWD GM 3 speed automatic
Electrical system:	12 Volt negative earth
Front suspension:	Double wishbones, coil springs, stabilising bar, anti-dive geometry
Rear suspension::	Independent, optional LSD		Independent, LSD	Independent, optional LSD			Independent, LSD	Independent, optional LSD		Independent, LSD
Brakes:	Disc brakes (solid front and rear), power assisted		Disc brakes (vented front, solid rear), power assisted
Steering:	Rack and pinion, optional power assistance	Rack and pinion, power assisted
Body structure:	Sheet steel, monocoque (unibody) construction
Dry weight:	1,630 kg (3,594 lb)	1,775 kg (3,913 lb)	1,760 kg (3,880 lb)	1,630 kg (3,594 lb)	1,685 kg (3,715 lb)	1,775 kg (3,913 lb)	1,810 kg (3,990 lb)	1,766 kg (3,893 lb)	1,830 kg (4,034 lb)	1,930 kg (4,255 lb)
Track:	1,473 mm (58.0 in)
Wheelbase:	2,763 mm (108.8 in) LWB: 2,865 mm (112.8 in)				2,865 mm (112.8 in)	SWB & XJC 2,763 mm (108.8 in) LWB: 2,865 mm (112.8 in)		2,865 mm (112.8 in)
Length:	4,843 mm (190.7 in) LWB: 4,945 mm (194.7 in)				4,945 mm (194.7 in)	SWB & XJC 4,843 mm (190.7 in) LWB: 4,945 mm (194.7 in)		4,959 mm (195.2 in)
Width:	1,770 mm (70 in)
Height:	1,375 mm (54.1 in)							1,372 mm (54.0 in)
Top speed: (automatic)	177 km/h (110 mph)	192 km/h (119 mph)	237 km/h (147 mph)	177 km/h (110 mph)	185 km/h (115 mph)	192 km/h (119 mph)	225 km/h (140 mph)	185 km/h (115 mph)	200 km/h (124 mph)	230 km/h (143 mph)
Acceleration: (0–100 km/h automatic)	15.2 s	12.5 s	7.4 s	15.2 s	12.9 s	12.5 s	7.9 s	12.5 s	10.5 s	8.4 s
Notes:	* Daimler versions excluded

XJ40, X300, and X308 (1986–2003)

The second generation of the XJ was produced for a total of 17 years with the arrival of the XJ40 in 1986 with its X300 and X308 derivatives being introduced later. Collectively these are all considered to be part of the XJ40 family although Jaguar only applies the internal codename to the 1986 model.

XJ40 (1986–1994)

Main article: Jaguar XJ (XJ40)

1989 Jaguar Sovereign

The intended replacement for the Series XJ models was code-named XJ40, and development on the all-new car began in the early 1970s (with small scale models being built as early as 1972). The project suffered a number of delays due to problems at parent company British Leyland and events such as the 1973 oil crisis. The XJ40 was finally introduced in 1986 at the British International Motor Show.

With the XJ40, Jaguar began to place more emphasis on build quality as well as simplification of the XJ's build process. With 25 per cent fewer body panel pressings required versus the outgoing model, the new process also saved weight, increased the stiffness of the chassis, and reduced cabin noise.

The new platform came with significantly different styling, which was more squared-off and angular than the outgoing Series III. Individual round headlamps were replaced with rectangular units on the higher-specification cars, and all models came with only a single, wide-sweeping windshield wiper. The interior received several modernisations such as the switch to a digital instrument cluster (although this was eventually discontinued for the 1990 model year in favour of analogue instruments.)

The six-cylinder XJ40s are powered by the AJ6 inline-six engine, which replaced the XK6 unit used in earlier XJs. The new unit featured a four-valve, twin overhead cam design. In 1993, one year before XJ40 production ended, the V12-powered XJ12 and Daimler Double Six models were reintroduced.

X300 (1994–1997)

Main article: Jaguar XJ (X300)

Jaguar Sovereign (X300)

The X300, introduced in 1994, was stylistically intended to evoke the image of the more curvaceous Series XJ models. The front of the car was redesigned significantly to return to four individual round headlamps that provided definition to the sculptured bonnet. Mechanically, it was similar to the XJ40 that it replaced.

Six-cylinder X300 models are powered by the AJ16 inline-six engine, which is a further enhancement of the AJ6 engine that uses an electronic distributorless ignition system. The V12 remained available until the end of the X300 production in 1997 (although it ended one year earlier in the United States market due to problems meeting OBD-II-related emissions requirements.)

Jaguar first introduced the supercharged XJR model in the XJ300's production run; the first supercharged road car manufactured by the company.

Design of the X300 was directly affected by the Ford Motor Company's ownership of Jaguar (between 1990 and 2007). According to Automotive News, this was evident in general "product development processes", more than the use of Ford components. However, the X300's traction control system was obtained from the Ford Mondeo and it also featured a Nippondenso air conditioner purchased through Ford channels.

X308 (1997–2003)

Main article: Jaguar XJ (X308)

Jaguar XJR (X308)

With the introduction of the X308 generation in 1997 came a switch from the XJ6 and XJ12 nomenclature to XJ8, reflecting the fact that the X308 cars were powered by a new V8 engine.

Interior

rear view

The exterior styling of the X308 was similar to the X300 with minor refinements such as a change to oval indicator lenses and amber style round fog lights. The interior was also updated to eliminate the rectangular instrument binnacle which had gone largely unchanged since the original XJ40; instead, three large gauges were set into recesses in the walnut-faced dashboard in front of the driver similar in design to the recently launched Jaguar XK (X100).

The major mechanical change was the replacement of both the inline-six and V12 engines with new eight-cylinder AJ-V8 in either a displacement of 3.2 L or 4.0 L, with the 4.0 L also available in supercharged form in the XJR (A sport oriented model). No manual transmission was available, and all X308 models were supplied with a five-speed automatic gearbox.

X350 and X358 (2003–2009)

X350 (2003–2007)

Main article: Jaguar XJ (X350)

X350
Jaguar XJR
Overview
Also called	XJ8, Vanden Plas, XJR & Super V8 Daimler Super Eight
Production	2002–2007
Assembly	Castle Bromwich Assembly, Birmingham, England
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 3.0 L AJ126 V6 3.5 L AJ-V8 V8 4.2 L AJ-V8 V8 4.2 L AJ-V8 supercharged V8 Diesel: 2.7 L Ford AJD-V6 V6
Transmission	6-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	SWB: 3,033 mm (119.4 in) LWB: 3,160 mm (124.4 in)
Length	SWB: 5,090 mm (200.4 in) LWB: 5,215 mm (205.3 in)
Width	2004–05: 1,859 mm (73.2 in) 2006–07: 2,108 mm (83.0 in)
Height	SWB: 1,448 mm (57 in) LWB: 1,455 mm (57.3 in)
Kerb weight	3,946 lb (1,790 kg)

Rear View

In 2003, Jaguar introduced the re-engineered third generation of the XJ, marketed as the XJ8 and designated internally as the X350, featuring an all-aluminium body and chassis, a new V8 engine, as well as greater interior and luggage space.

The V8 engine was offered in larger 3.5 and 4.2-litre displacements as well in a supercharged variation. A 3.0-litre V6 engine was also offered, although with the later introduction of the 2.7-litre V6 diesel, the V6 petrol version was discontinued (neither V6 petrol nor diesel were available in US markets). A new six-speed automatic gearbox was fitted which was lighter and offered better economy with lock-up on all gears and a larger spread of ratios.

Air suspension was fitted at the front and rear, providing adaptive damping as well as rear self leveling— with computer-controlled ride height and suspension mode. Dynamic stability control as well as traction control were standard.

Two-zone climate control was also standard, with four-zone available on long-wheelbase models. An optional touch screen interface controlled default settings, satellite navigation, the Alpine audio system, and bluetooth telephone. "Jaguar Voice" offered voice control of many functions.

X358 (2007–2009)

X358
Overview
Also called	Jaguar XJ8, Vanden Plas, XJR, Super V8
Production	2007–2009
Dimensions
Kerb weight	VJ8: 3,770 lb (1,710 kg) VDP: 3,871 lb (1,756 kg) XJR: 3,946 lb (1,790 kg) Super V8: 4,006 lb (1,817 kg)

Rear view

A face-lifted version of the X350 was launched at the end of February 2007 with a revised lower grille, prominent faux side air vents, small bootlid spoiler and revised seating.

X351 (2010–2019)

Main article: Jaguar XJ (X351)

XJ X351
Overview
Production	2010–2019
Assembly	Castle Bromwich Assembly, Birmingham, England Pune, India
Designer	Ian Callum Giles Taylor
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 3.0 L supercharged AJ V6 5.0 L AJ Gen III V8 5.0 L AJ Gen III supercharged V8 Diesel: 3.0 L Ford AJD twin-turbocharged V6
Power output	Petrol models: 3.0 supercharged: 340 PS (250 kW) 5.0: 385 PS (283 kW) 5.0 supercharged: 510 PS (375 kW) Diesel models: 3.0: 275 PS (202 kW)
Transmission	6-speed automatic 8-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	SWB: 119.4 in (3,033 mm) LWB: 124.3 in (3,157 mm)
Length	SWB: 201.7 in (5,123 mm) LWB: 206.6 in (5,248 mm)
Width	74.6 in (1,895 mm)
Height	57 in (1,448 mm)
Kerb weight	(SWB) Diesel: 1,796 kg (3,960 lb) Petrol: 1,755 kg (3,869 lb) Supercharged: 1,892 kg (4,171 lb) (Note Add 23 kg (51 lb) for LWB models)

Jaguar XJR

Interior

Jaguar XJ-L

In July 2009, the redesigned XJ was unveiled at the Saatchi Gallery in London, with Jay Leno and Elle Macpherson unveiling the new car. The unveiling was broadcast live on the Jaguar website.

In keeping with Ian Callum's new design direction for Jaguar, the XJ has an all-new exterior design and a break from the XJ Series mould carried over on all previous generations. It is a longer, wider car that is much bigger than its predecessor. The front has clear links with the XF executive car, although with slimmer, sleeker lights and a larger, squarer grille add a more aggressive appearance. The rear is the contentious part, an unusual design element for a Jaguar automobile. The upright, swooping taillights, nicknamed "cat's claws", and black roof panels at each side of the rear screen, which aim to hide the XJ's width, are the most striking aspects. There is also a standard full-length sunroof, that extends all the way back with just a single body-coloured roof panel that the designer refers as bridges on yachts.

The new XJ features an innovative, all-LCD dashboard and console displays. The dashboard can be configured to display various virtual dials in addition to the obligatory speedometer. The console display presents different views to the driver and passenger, including control of a sophisticated video and audio system.

Like several of its predecessors, the X351 is available in both standard and long-wheelbase form, as well as many special editions. Engines are modern units already seen in other JLR products: the 5.0-litre petrol V8 either normally aspirated or supercharged, or a 3.0-litre diesel twin-turbocharged V6 that is predicted to account for most of the sales. For 2013, a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 was introduced to the line-up, primarily as an alternative to the diesel unit for improved fuel economy.

The X351 received a minor facelift in 2014, primarily upgrading the suspension and rear seat facilities on the long wheelbase versions, but also introducing small cosmetic changes across the range, and making stop-start technology standard on all engines.

The X351 received another facelift in 2015, adding LED headlights, J-Blade rear taillights, and adding several new driver assistance and safety features such as lane assist, adaptive cruise control with a new feature known as "Queue assist", reverse traffic direction, closing vehicle sensing, a 360 degree camera system, and semi-automated parking features.

Worldwide sales

Year	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	Total
Units sold	10,404	15,128	14,988	19,677	18,348	12,536	11,315	102,396

XJ Numbering of cars and engines

Just prior to World War II, Jaguar, known then as SS Cars, started using a numbering system beginning with the letter X for internal projects. X meaning experimental, XB for military chassis projects and XF to XK for engines. This numbering system has never been consistent and there appear to be many omissions and duplications.

Number	Project
XJ3	3.4-litre and 3.8-litre S-Type saloon cars (known to the Pressed Steel Company as 'Utah')
XJ4	Designation of the project which led to what was publicly announced as the XJ6
XJ5	Modifications to the Mark Ten for air conditioning
XJ6	A V12 racing engine with four overhead-camshafts
XJ8	E-type 2+2 version
XJ13	Jaguar sport-racing mid engined prototype
XJ16	Jaguar 420 saloon
XJ22 & XJ23	E-type Series Two
XJ27	The Jaguar XJS
XJ40	Second generation Jaguar XJ6 (1986–94) (as opposed to Series 2 version of the first generation)
XJ41	Prototype coupé replacement for the XJ-S
XJ42	Prototype drophead replacement for the XJ-S
XJ50	Jaguar XJ12 series three
XJ57 & XJ58	Jaguar XJ-S 3.6-litre
XJ81	Second generation Jaguar XJ12 (1993–94)
XJ220	Sports and race car variants developed with Tom Walkinshaw Racing (1992–94)

External links

• International Jaguar XJ Page
• USA Jaguar XJ Page
• MENA Jaguar XJ Page