STUD or DUD: Is The All-New Jaguar XJ Ferocious?

STUD or DUD: Is The All-New Jaguar XJ Ferocious?
After months of anticipation, teaser photos and yesterday’s leaked photos, the all-new Jaguar XJ has arrived.  In stunning fashion, to say the least.  This new Jag is a total departure from what has been done by the brand before.

Looking at its exterior there seems to be a mix of styling similarities from other vehicles.  The fascia of an XF, the side profile of an A6 and the rear of a French Citroen.  And, what is a British automobile without its quirks?  Check out that blacked-out C-pillar. 

Taking a look inside the new cat is a totally bespoke interior.  If you can look at these shots and not say “Whoa,” you must pilot a spaceship.   

Where have you seen anything like this?

So, what’s the verdict Spies?  Stud or Dud?

Want more information? Check out the press release from Jaguar below: 

9 July 2009
REVEALED TODAY - THE ALL NEW 2010 JAGUAR XJ

The All New XJ brings a bold and daring new spirit to automotive luxury

MAHWAH, N.J., JULY 9, 2009 – Jaguar proudly revealed the all new 2010 Jaguar XJ today in London. The iconic XJ offers a seductive mix of striking design and robust performance made possible by Jaguar's aerospace-inspired light weight aluminum body technology. The all new Jaguar XJ will go on sale in December 2009, with a starting price of $72,500 MSRP. It is available to order today for delivery in early 2010.

Building on the success of the XK and XF, the new XJ is the third step in the revitalization of the Jaguar brand and redefines the world's perception of a large sports sedan. The new XJ will be available in both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom while the XJ’s trunk features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cu. ft. storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel).

The all new Jaguar XJ brings new standards of sustainability to the luxury vehicle segment. Its lightweight aluminum structure makes it at least 300 lbs. lighter over steel body construction, and is made with 50 percent recycled material allowing the XJ to minimize its carbon footprint and create a potential savings of three tons of CO2 per vehicle, compared to a body shell made entirely of new aluminum. These aerospace-inspired aluminum body technologies also provide benefits to performance, handling and fuel economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety.

"The launch of the all new Jaguar XJ marks a major milestone for Jaguar in North America, which is expected to be the world's largest Jaguar XJ market," says Gary Temple, President of Jaguar Land Rover North America. "The debut of our ultimate four-door flagship follows recent recognition for exceptional dependability and clearly demonstrates our commitment to producing the finest cars in the world – fast, beautiful cars that offer luxury, performance and first-rate quality."

The first impression of the all new XJ is its visual assertiveness. The XJ’s sleek lines are complemented by a taut waistline, which further accentuates the impression of length and elegance, and creates a natural tension as it fades from the front arch into the middle section of the car before reappearing as a strong haunch towards the rear.

The New XJ offers a modern reinterpretation of a number of key XJ design cues while maintaining the highest standards of personal luxury. This is evident in how the strong, muscular lower half of the car contrasts with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline – a nod to the original 1968 XJ sedan.

A standard panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all new XJ’s design, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside. The LED light clusters wrap stylishly over the rear fenders, and feature three dramatic red vertical strips while the elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car’s silhouette. The rear of the all new XJ is notable for its pure, sculpted shape. With a conscious absence of ornamentation, the rear features only a single leaping Jaguar.

The face of the all new 2010 XJ is confident, with a wide front track and short overhang contributing to the finely judged proportions. The nose of the car follows Jaguar’s new design language with a bold and assertive treatment – the powerful mesh grille and slim xenon headlights create a strong road presence while the wrap-around rear screen reduces the visual weight of the pillars and gives the impression of an exotic "floating" roof.

“The new XJ is a thoroughly modern interpretation of the quintessential Jaguar," says Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars. "Its visual impact stems from the elongated teardrop shape of the car’s side windows; that powerful stance and its wide track. It is the most emphatic statement yet of Jaguar’s new design direction."

The sleek design and refined luxury is continued inside the all new XJ by mixing newly advanced technologies and contemporary design to create an environment more akin to a state-of-the-art living space than a car cabin. The overriding impression from the interior is a sense of personal space that is enhanced by the clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle. At the center of the instrument panel is an analog clock with individual chrome chaplets, a spun metal face and iridescent blue background; a look inspired by luxury watches.

The all new XJ's cabin is a marvel in its own right, blending elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provide an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully crafted leather and veneer surfaces. To further complement the cabin design is a level of choice in colors, veneers and leathers not seen before in a Jaguar. Four specification levels – XJ, XJL, Supercharged and Supersport – allow the customer to tailor the car to suit their tastes. The top-of-the-range Supersport provides the ultimate expression of performance and luxury, with a specification that includes a leather headlining, semi-aniline leather seats and veneers with laser inlays.

Stunning, 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual InstrumentsTM complement an innovative 8-inch Touch-screen that displays vehicle functions ranging from audio and video to navigation and climate control. Premium surround sound options include the top-of-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, which is standard on the Supercharged and Supersport models. Advanced infotainment features also include hard drive-based audio and navigation systems, and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub.

The all new XJ’s beauty is much more than skin-deep. All engines transmit power through an enhanced version of Jaguar’s acclaimed electronically controlled, six-speed automatic transmission which has a fully-adaptive shift system that delivers extremely smooth gear changes and works to balance performance and economy.

With the XJ, Jaguar has built upon its leading quality performance using the latest virtual product technologies. These proven Jaguar dynamic technologies are taken to new levels in the all new XJ. Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (on Supercharged and Supersport) and quick-ratio power steering deliver the blend of responsive, dynamic handling and a refined, supple ride expected from a Jaguar.

The new XJ will be available in the US with a choice of three engines – a 5.0 liter 385hp naturally aspirated V8, 5.0 liter 470hp supercharged V8 and a 5.0 liter 510hp supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XJ develops 380 lb.-ft. of torque. The supercharged versions develop 424 lb.-ft. and 461 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. All three engines combine deft performance, unparalleled character, peerless pedigree, and have a classic Jaguar blend of strength and precision.

The all new 2010 Jaguar XJ delivers a driving experience that is just as memorable as the car’s sleek and alluring appearance, combining responsive, sporting dynamics with the luxurious drive expected from a Jaguar.

All New Jaguar XJ At-A-Glance

• As the company’s ultimate four-door flagship, the all new XJ extends the appeal of the legendary XJ line to a new generation of customers.

• The all new XJ will be available in the US with a choice of three engines – a 5.0 liter 385hp naturally aspirated V8, 5.0 liter 470hp supercharged V8 and a 5.0 liter 510hp supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XJ develops 380 lb. ft. of torque. The supercharged versions develop 424 lb. ft. and 461 lb. ft. of torque, respectively.

• The new XJ features both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom while the XJ’s trunk features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cu. ft. storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel).

• The new Jaguar XJ is constructed using Jaguar’s aerospace-inspired aluminum body technology, which makes the XJ at least 300 lbs. lighter over steel body construction; providing benefits to performance, handling and fuel economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety.

• Key driver aids on the new XJ include Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (available only on Supercharged and Supersport), and Sequential Shift System for manual gear selection, with shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel and quick-ratio power steering.

• The new XJ comes standard with a CD/DVD player, HD radio, and a SIRIUS™ satellite radio receiver. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth® audio streaming and an auxiliary input, which allow the user to connect with iPods®, iPhones™, laptops and Blackberrys®.

• A 12.3-inch high-definition screen, which uses sophisticated – and beautifully detailed – Virtual InstrumentsTM, provides all of the functions performed by traditional dials.

• A panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all new XJ’s design, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside.

• The all new Jaguar XJ can be ordered today for delivery in early 2010 and will go on sale in December 2009, with a starting price of $72,500 MSRP.

The All New XJ Model Line Will Include:

• 5.0-liter naturally aspirated XJ and XJL (385hp) with a $72,500 and 79,500 MSRP, respectively

• 5.0-liter XJ and XJL Supercharged (470hp) with a $87,500 and $90,500 MSRP, respectively

• 5.0-liter XJ and XJL Supersport (510hp) with a $112,000 and $115,000 MSRP, respectively

All prices include an $850 destination and delivery charge. Tax, title, and registration fees not included.



2010 BMW X6M X5M Photo Gallery

2009 Concours on Rodeo Photo Gallery

2010 Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO Photo Gallery
 

AutoSpies.com Photo Galleries

If you want to see your photos running on our homepage photo ticker, be sure to upload your photos on the go by sending them to Mobile@AutoSpies.com

Share on Facebook

 



JMB1013JMB1013 - 7/9/2009 5:25:57 PM
+5 Boost
Didn't expect the rear to look like that. Either way, I like it.


TopGearTopGear - 7/9/2009 5:46:12 PM
+3 Boost
Absolutely STUD. BMW 7 is no match for this beauty.


henbmwhenbmw - 7/9/2009 11:13:01 PM
+3 Boost
Agreed. That thing is plain gorgeous.


theoptimisticpessimisttheoptimisticpessimist - 7/9/2009 5:39:45 PM
+17 Boost
That's becaus Lexus has been coping every body else for so long you're confused.


Dr550Dr550 - 7/9/2009 5:28:38 PM
+11 Boost
Very nice. Good job Jaguar.


theoptimisticpessimisttheoptimisticpessimist - 7/9/2009 5:38:15 PM
+9 Boost
Exterior - A bit to XF'ish for my taste, but studish.

Interior - HOLY CRAP! Gorgeous, class leading, ultra studlyness!


Agent00RAgent00R - 7/9/2009 6:04:42 PM
+7 Boost
Yes, that interior is SOMETHING ELSE.

Pretty amazing what Jaguar has turned out, at least speaking about the interior.


DinamoRDinamoR - 7/9/2009 5:44:46 PM
-9 Boost
Looks like kia amanti from the rear

And the interior still looks old school. why not make it modern if the exterior is so?


WorldofLuxuryWorldofLuxury - 7/9/2009 5:45:10 PM
+5 Boost
WOW WOW WOWOWOWOW!
So many designs I would've thought they'd keep on XJ's original concept, but they've actually put them on a production car!
SOOOOO BEAUUUUUUUTIFUL!!!

Ian Callum says that the front gives a "look at me", the side says "admire me", and the rear, "you'll always remember me"
so true!

It was nice to see Jay Leno present the car. I hope he goes on Top Gear's SIARPC soon!


Agent001Agent001 - 7/9/2009 5:47:52 PM
+3 Boost
Mix the rear of a Citroen with one part last generation Audi A6, add a strange deviating color roof panel, then top with Quattroporte-like tail lights and what do you get? The new Jaguar XJ. Oddly French looking exterior IMHO but nice quality interior.

001


Agent001Agent001 - 7/9/2009 5:54:35 PM
-8 Boost
Also, does not look very youthful to me. Almost looks like it could work better as a Cadillac.

001


WorldofLuxuryWorldofLuxury - 7/9/2009 5:56:15 PM
+9 Boost
Overall, it's still beautiful. It's not overly complicated, yet it shows attention to details.


ColmfarlColmfarl - 7/10/2009 4:24:39 PM
+1 Boost
Spot on!


JRobUSCJRobUSC - 7/9/2009 5:57:17 PM
+10 Boost
exterior: like the front, like the side, don't like the back
interior: not a huge fan of polar blue interior lighting (too Acura for my tastes) but it looks really nice, and the specs sound pretty great.


CBOTGuyCBOTGuy - 7/9/2009 6:12:50 PM
+1 Boost
Love the front, hate everything aft of the B pillar. The Audi greenhouse does not work on this car, should kept the C pillar from the XF, and the rear -- one word: nasty! Would take a 7, S, or current A8 over this thing any day. But seriously, props on the interior -- this one instance in which "inner beauty" really is relevant...


locklock - 7/9/2009 6:15:06 PM
+1 Boost
Looks great! Stud! Here's a link for more pictures and videos.

http://www.jaguar.com/gl/en/#/allnewxj/gallery?id=95635



locklock - 7/9/2009 6:17:58 PM
+1 Boost
....check out the cluster display video and all the custom options. Sweet!


bmwdrvrbmwdrvr - 7/9/2009 6:16:49 PM
+2 Boost
wow, that interior is ground breaking it looks like something out of a 300,000 car def best in class. Im still not thrilled about its looks but these pictures certainly make it look alot better. I think S class and 7 have met their match if this car has the dynamics to match, it looks so much further upmarket than the 7 or S. Im still giddy over that interior wow.


schnell330ischnell330i - 7/9/2009 6:21:38 PM
+2 Boost
what the hell is that thing on the c pillar???????


Yonder7Yonder7 - 7/9/2009 6:24:07 PM
+2 Boost
I am an MB fan but this car is so atractive, tha if they put a V12 in the hood, I'm willing to pick this beauty.


Bmw8terBmw8ter - 7/9/2009 8:59:23 PM
+3 Boost
The V12 design has perfect balance versus the V8. I think a V12 would compliment this perfectly if they could come up with an efficient engine. You'd have a smooth, powerful, touring monster on your hands.

This is one hot car.


freeagentfreeagent - 7/9/2009 6:25:50 PM
0 Boost
Very nicely done. Wish it had an AWD option


clsboyclsboy - 7/9/2009 6:35:30 PM
-9 Boost
The question is... will it look like this come production time!!!>.


cdokecdoke - 7/9/2009 6:37:53 PM
+8 Boost
This is not a concept- this is the production car.


BMW4me4everBMW4me4ever - 7/9/2009 6:47:02 PM
-1 Boost
the Interior is 1st class. I am a bit worried about the rear seat comfort for headroom and shoulder rooom, especially with such a dramatic slope from the "a" pillar to the "c" pillar. Has the same slope asthetics of the CLS of Mercedes. Also, 15.2 cu ft of trunk space is defintely on the small side in the market they are in.

Exterior has some nice touches, but too much like the Xf of the front end. The back is alright, I wish they would have gone more with the XF style back end. It will be interesting to see how it actually stacks up vs the BMW 7-series & Mercedes S-class.


thstonethstone - 7/9/2009 7:16:26 PM
+5 Boost
STUD! Looks like it costs twice the price and you're not going to see one in every third driveway like you do the 7-series.


LUXCAR32LUXCAR32 - 7/9/2009 7:21:03 PM
+7 Boost
Great looking car! I think Jag might have a winner. The only thing that bothers me about the design is that the front and rear don't really seem to go together. The front is so horizontal and wide while the rear is very vertical and narrow. I'm also not really sure about that blacked c-pillar. Who knows it might all come together and look great in person. Interior is absolutely amazing though.
I am really excited about the sustainability also. This page says its made from 50% recycled materials, but actually the jaguar website says 85% of the car will be made from recycled materials...85%! Thats really amazing.


RNeekChicRNeekChic - 7/9/2009 7:24:46 PM
+3 Boost
Very goodlooking car. But for my personal tastes I much rather have "JAGUAR" spelled out instead of the animal logo in the back only b/c it makes it more sport influenced than luxury to an extent. Other than that beautiful car.


sdcarguysdcarguy - 7/9/2009 9:27:06 PM
+3 Boost
Agreed, ballsy move not putting J A G U A R across the back. Trying to be like Apple?

Probably the first thing they'll consider changing in a mid-lifecycle refresh.


answeranswer - 7/9/2009 7:28:22 PM
+5 Boost
I'd take a black one.

Gladly.


JUGNUJUGNU - 7/9/2009 8:11:18 PM
+1 Boost
stud but the rear could have been lot better. It looks like italian saloon lancia thesis.

JUGNU


RunamukkRunamukk - 7/9/2009 8:21:18 PM
+3 Boost
this thing is so hot. It's got the balls of an S class, the sexiness of an Aston Martin, and the luxuriousness of a Bentley.


sectorsector - 7/9/2009 8:25:57 PM
-3 Boost
Lame, I guess they ran out of money for a new design, nothing more than a XF dressed up a bit.


EL34EL34 - 7/9/2009 8:32:12 PM
+3 Boost
The new Jaguar XJ is the best car in class.

The interior is easly the finest in class.

Jaguar is #1.


jselljsell - 7/9/2009 8:45:39 PM
-1 Boost
Very nice looking car. With that said, don't think it's better than an S-class or 7 series though. Jaguar has a design hit, but is it enough to undo what has been done to their reputation for quality (or lack thereof). Only time will tell, very RICH looking car though.



aaspiridisaaspiridis - 7/9/2009 9:11:16 PM
+2 Boost
I see elements of Audi, Aston Martin, Bentley and the 1960s/1970s Jags in the exterior, and some Maserati in that sumptuous interior. Good on Jag for breaking away from Retro, and hope they make it big with the XJ/XF


sdcarguysdcarguy - 7/9/2009 9:12:20 PM
+2 Boost
Looks like a proper Jag.

Blacked out C pillar does nothing for the car. It would look much better painted body color (like some owners are doing to their silver Acura "Beaks" )

The rear is a letdown.

But all in all, Gorgeous.


LexSucksLexSucks - 7/9/2009 9:20:35 PM
-3 Boost
Stubby is the first thing that comes to my mind when I see the exterior. The C-Pillar and rear-end looks blah. imo of course


_43LE_43LE - 7/9/2009 11:13:44 PM
+2 Boost
Lovin' it, has its own style and looks great.


wac77wac77 - 7/9/2009 11:51:55 PM
-1 Boost
It's a good looking car, but it just doesn't say Jaguar.


LUXCAR32LUXCAR32 - 7/10/2009 12:12:39 AM
+2 Boost
I don't think the designers really wanted a car that would "say Jaguar". This car is the completion of the transformation of Jaguar. They are trying to lose their reputation for bland out of date styling etc. and switch to a more modern image.
This car is the new way to say Jaguar.


CamrymanCamryman - 7/13/2009 9:11:48 PM
+1 Boost
Jaguar made the right move to move on, style wise. The old look was well old and not many were selling. The new look of Jaguar is what will keep its brand alive. IMO Jaguar made the right move and not a moment to soon.



1dott81dott8 - 7/10/2009 12:59:28 AM
+3 Boost
to me, this is no XJ. i like what Jaguar made and i definitely think it's beautiful but i think they should have retired the XJ name and called this something else. can't wait to see it on the road though.


rxh8me9000rxh8me9000 - 7/10/2009 1:52:30 AM
+1 Boost
Beats the S-class and 7 series in looks,easily.


wins555wins555 - 7/10/2009 2:02:30 AM
+3 Boost
Front is ok but the c pillar is ????????? Overall, A STUD!


xj13xj13 - 7/10/2009 3:26:33 AM
0 Boost
What a STUD, goodbye LS.


daydaydayday - 7/10/2009 4:07:12 AM
+4 Boost
i like the front and the interior...
really not sure about the rear... ...



darzavdarzav - 7/10/2009 4:11:33 AM
0 Boost
Dud... The XF looked good but this thing.. not so much..


isaacuisaacu - 7/10/2009 9:09:02 AM
+3 Boost
This is a new "XJ". Full-stop.

Now, spend time taking in the car's "lines" and "design-signature". Remember the "XF" at launch? Good. Now, let go of your in-built "mental joy-stick" and switch to "auto-pilot" and allow your emotions take in the necessary new "path". Then read my comments below. Taken from another car enthusiast website (WorldCarFans.com), "Jaguar XF Officially Revealed in Detail" - August 28th 2007:

"Jaguar are to be applauded for the new "XF". The audaciousness/boldness of the styling's "design change" answers the question, "how would Jaguar break-away from the past?" This car allows for a new "Corporate image" and much wider commercial viability in the global market.

It's a clean break from the past and allows Jaguar "design-joy" for decades to come. Well done!!"

You will now find yourself at a cruising altitude of 50,000 feet taking in "the view". There are things to criticise about the new "XJ" but you cannot deny its "intent". It exists to prowl the jungle.

isaacu


pennfootballpennfootball - 7/10/2009 1:25:35 PM
0 Boost
It looks better in dark blue, black or green, darker colors make the rear window work well. Lighter colors and silver is puke


enthusiastx11enthusiastx11 - 7/11/2009 10:53:28 AM
-1 Boost
this is an XJ?! they've taken one of the world's most iconic sedans and turned it into benign car. it looks NOTHING like a jaguar. this car will drive away many loyal jaguar buyers.


JRobUSCJRobUSC - 7/11/2009 3:08:23 PM
+2 Boost
Maybe, but in fairness I think most of those "loyal Jaguar buyers" died years ago anyway.

Jaguar needed to get younger buyers into their cars, to create new "loyal Jaguar buyers". Between this and the XF they are doing exactly what they needed to do. Good job Jag.


Copyright 2026 AutoSpies.com, LLC