Jaguar XJ 5.0 V8 Premium Luxury LWB 4dr Car Review - February 2012

As with many other Jaguar cars the driving position is excellent and more than comfortable enough for the average driver. The ride is smooth enough to be comfortable but still has the right feedback from the wheel to keep the driver firmly in control. The handling around the corners is exquisite, grip is strong and the steering is accurate, and whether you’re cruising or accelerating quickly, the noise from the engine is little more than a gurgle.

The V8 engine is one of the best performing in the XJ range, and the engine is quick to respond even for the most demanding of drivers. The acceleration is very fast indeed for such a big car, and going from 0-60mph is achieved in 5.4 seconds. For those who do have the opportunity to really let the XJ off the leash, a top speed of 155mph will be plenty for the vast majority of drivers.

The large grille at the front end of the XJ is typical of the latest generation of Jaguars, and the low-riding front bumper and narrow headlights give the XJ a speedy look, even when standing still. The large alloy wheels are included as standard, and the back of the saloon slopes pleasantly towards the tidy rear end. Inside the cabin, luxury abounds, and the well designed neon blue dials are easy to read and informative.

As you would expect from a Jaguar saloon, the equipment is impressive and offers satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and a hands free kit as standard. There are also plenty of luxuries to keep the driver and passengers comfortable, while electric steering wheel adjustment and power seats also help to provide a comfortable driving position. The electric panoramic sunroof is also a nice inclusion.

Most people will be looking at the XJ as an executive saloon for regular travel, and for individuals this car is very practical. However, head room in the rear seats is a little tight. The boot space is reasonable but not exceptional, but the comfort in the car does mean that long journeys will be carried out comfortably for the driver at least.

In terms of the safety equipment, there are six airbags which are included with the vehicle. There are also driving aids such as ABS, ESP and traction control in place to help keep the car on the road, and for those who struggle to park large vehicles, front and rear parking sensors will help to avoid little bumps. The warranty package is reasonable, and Jaguar is well known for producing reliable cars.

The list price for this version of the XJ is a hefty £70,050. The Mercedes S Class is available for a few thousand less than this version of the XJ, but in reality the price of premium luxury cars such as this will depend on how much the individual is willing to pay and how much they really want a Jaguar XJ.

In terms of the running costs of this XJ, there is no doubt that the fuel bills for the car are likely to be significant, because the average 24.9mpg is not particularly competitive. Insuring an XJ is also going to be a significant expense, as the XJ falls into group 49, with the highest being 50. Depreciation for the XJ is slightly more than it is for the XF version, but still holds value and desirability quite well. There is also a reasonably good warranty package with three years warranty and the same period of breakdown cover available.