EDMUNDS.COM 2004 JAGUAR XJ-SERIES
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
The styling may not break any new ground, but an all-aluminum body and high-tech air suspension transform this former fat cat into a friskier flagship.
Pros
Supple ride quality, powerful V8 engines, roomier interior.
Cons
Fussy interior controls, clumsy transmission shifter, CD changer is still in the trunk.
What''s New for 2004
Although the exterior styling may look familiar, Jaguar''s historic sales leader, the XJ, has been completely redesigned for 2004.
Overview
Introduction:
Now into its seventh generation, Jaguar''s flagship XJ sedan continues to provide the utmost in luxury and performance along with its unique British character. The XJ has so long been the bearer of all things Jag that a full redesign was risky business -- how do you bring a dated car (the outgoing model had its roots firmly planted in the 1986 version) into the new millennium without alienating those who hold Jaguar''s tradition and heritage sacred? The 2004 version may be all-new inside and out, but don''t look to the XJ to provide a new benchmark in post-modern styling as it still looks much like the outgoing version. But that is where the similarities end. Virtually every nut and bolt on the 2004 XJ is completely new. This car is longer, taller and wider. An all-aluminum body now graces the XJ, and that body is hung on an advanced aluminum frame that weighs roughly 200 pounds less than the previous generation. Because of the abundant use of aluminum, Jaguar had to undertake the daunting task of completely reworking its aged Castle Bromwich plant. The plant now utilizes the latest in manufacturing techniques, many of which were borrowed from the aerospace industry. One such innovation is the use of thousands of self-piercing rivets in the construction process that significantly improves the structural rigidity of the completed frame. Thanks in part to the lighter curb weight afforded by the extensive use of aluminum, the new XJ is both quicker on its feet and more efficient in the process. Its standard V8 engine is slightly larger and more powerful than before, but with less weight to propel, it achieves better mileage figures than the outgoing model. A new six-speed automatic transmission is yet another factor in the XJ''s improved performance and mileage figures as it provides both shorter gearing for quicker starts along with two overdrive gears for relaxed cruising. Inside the XJ, luxury still abounds. The look and feel is still distinctly British but at the same time there''s more room throughout. Whereas the previous XJ took the cockpit theme to almost claustrophobic extremes, the new car offers a similar feel without the cramped hiproom. Even more noticeable is the increased room for rear-seat passengers as the XJ now boasts interior dimensions on par with its German competition. Despite the uncanny resemblance to XJs of old, the new XJ is a huge leap forward in terms of quality, technology and performance. Somehow Jaguar has managed to capture the spirit of the old car but with a distinctly modern flair.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
All Jaguar XJs are four-door sedans, but three distinct styles are available. The standard XJ8 model offers a long list of amenities that includes traction control, four-zone climate control, adjustable pedals, walnut-trimmed interior and a self leveling suspension all for a starting price of around $60,000. The luxury-oriented Vanden Plas ups the plush factor by adding such features as heated seats, xenon headlights and a power rear sunshade.
Powertrains and Performance:
Both the XJ8 and Vanden Plas come with Jaguar''s 4.2-liter V8 engine which is good for 294 horsepower and 303 pound-feet of torque. Jaguar claims a 0-to-60-mph time of 6.3 seconds for the XJ8 and Vanden Plas.
Safety:
All XJs come standard with such safety features as antilock brakes, BrakeAssist, front and rear seatbelt pre-tensioners and front, side and head curtain airbags. Sensors monitor the front occupants'' weight and position to the point that the airbags will deploy at a lesser rate or not at all if it is deemed unsafe for the occupant. The XJ-Series sedans have not yet been crash tested.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Despite all the new technology, the XJ still offers a rich and warm interior befitting a proper British luxury sedan. Vanden Plas models offer 16-way power seats versus the standard 12-way seats that come standard in the XJ8. A new electronic parking brake that automatically sets and releases itself as the shift lever is moved into and out of park is standard in all XJs.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
The XJ''s significant technological improvements are immediately noticeable when it comes to the vehicle''s ride and handling. Wind noise is down, and the interior remains much quieter than the previous XJ, especially at highway speeds. The combination of its bigger, more powerful V8 and the weight savings from its aluminum construction yield a livelier, more fun-to-drive car than ever before. Thankfully, comfort is a top priority as well; all XJ variants offer a tight, smooth and refined driving experience.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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