The Jaguar XJ - The Luxury Sports Car

Every XJ has a V8 engine under the hood. A standard engine is powerful; a 4.2L aluminum V8 engine with 300 horsepower. It uses cam phasing to increase response with lower emissions. Advanced versions of the XJ feature higher performance engines. The R model features a supercharger with 400 horsepower.

Of the five XJ models, XJR is probably the most thrilling. The body uses a rivet-bonded aluminum alloy monocoque, which is stiffer and stronger and 40% lighter than steel. Independent, aluminum double-wishbone suspension with larger anti-roll bars, featuring R-tuned self-leveling air springs and enhanced Computer Active Technology, analyze road conditions and curtail pitch and roll. The level is lowered automatically at higher speeds so that the car will be more stable. In other words the closer to the ground the car is, the greater its stability.

The XJ employs a clever system of protecting the driver. Pre-tensioned 3-point safety belts serve all seating positions, and energy absorbent seats help guard front passengers. Driver and passenger airbags are deployed according to a number of factors including occupant position, weight and safety belt use, and side curtain airbags drop from above doors to help shield occupants. A similar concept to oxygen masks coming down on aircraft. Built into the car´s aluminum body are crumple zones and a rigid safety cell. Traction control varies power to wheels to limit slip. Four-channel anti-lock brakes, largest in the XJR and Super V8, stop the car with confidence and in treacherous conditions the braking force at each wheel is varied to help manage grip. Just like the other Jaguar cars, individual tire pressure is continuously monitored, even the spare.

The interior of the car is also exquisite. Each interior is hand crafted with Peruvian boxwood and rich leather. Four-zone climate control is used along with a twelve speaker sound system that can work with the option Sirius Satellite Radio feature. The seats are also heated and can be adjusted in sixteen different ways.