Introduction
The 2016 Jaguar XJ sedan will arrive in dealer showrooms this fall with a refreshed exterior and
Jaguar's latest driver technology and infotainment systems. The brand's flagship large premium sedan that seats five, last redesigned in 2009, is constructed on an all-aluminum body. The
XJ competes with the
BMW 7 Series,
Lexus LS,
Mercedes-Benz S-Class,
Audi A8, and Maserati Quattroporte.
Exterior Features
Subtle exterior changes to the 2016 XJ include full LED headlights and different daytime running lights. The front fascia, including a larger, upright grille with mesh pattern, redesigned front bumper, and sculpted chrome blades in the lower air intakes are new, as are oval exhaust tips.
Eight different versions of the 2016 XJ lineup are offered. Four standard- (SWB) and four long-wheelbase (LWB) models are configured with RWD or all-wheel drive (AWD). Standard-wheelbase models include the XJ R-Sport, XJ R-Sport AWD, XJ Supercharged, and the XJR. Long-wheelbase models, with extra luxury amenities, include the XJL Portfolio, XJL Portfolio AWD, XJL Supercharged, and XJR LWB.
Standard features on the new XJ include bi-function HID xenon headlights; a panoramic, tinted, glass roof with power blinds; and a soft door close system that operates by touch.
Interior Features
The instrument cluster of the new XJ sedan is redesigned with new graphics and features a full-screen 8-in. navigation display screen in the center console that also operates multimedia. For 2016, all XJ cabins have standard front and
rear heated and ventilated seats, blind-spot monitor, Smart Key and keyless entry, Intelligent start/stop technology to reduce fuel consumption, and a JaguarDrive selector knob for driving modes.
Other changes include perforated leather seats with contrast stitching, piping and emblem on the headrests on standard-wheelbase models. The new XJ R-Sport model and XJ Supercharged model are fitted with a choice of multi-level adjustable power seats with lumbar support. The XJL Portfolio and XJL Supercharged LWB feature new quilted seating finished with a diamond sewn pattern.
Optional Features
Several sporty, interior treatment, and comfort option packages plus higher-end Meridian surround-sound audio systems are available as options on the 2016 XJ.
Under the Hood
While the exterior and interior of the new Jaguar XJ are made over, engines and powertrains don't change for 2016. The standard, 3.0-liter, V-6 supercharged engine produces 340 horsepower with 332 lb.-ft. of torque. Partnered with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the XJ accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds; AWD versions can reach 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, according to Jaguar. Top speed for the standard XJ is 121 mph, Jaguar says.
The higher-end XJ supercharged version features a 5.0-liter V-8 engine that produces 470 horsepower and will accelerate to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while the XJR equipped with a tuned 5.0-liter, supercharged V-8 motor produces 550 horsepower and will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Top speed is limited to 174.
Fuel Economy
Official EPA fuel-economy estimates are not available for the new 2016 Jaguar XJ. However, mpg estimates for the 2015 XJR with the supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 are 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, while the 3.0-liter V-6 version averages 17 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Safety
A host of advanced driver-assistance systems are available on the 2016 Jaguar XJ, including adaptive cruise control, closing-vehicle sensing, reverse traffic detection, 360-degree surround camera system, and semi-automated parallel parking (RWD only). An all-surface control system enables safer driving on slick or low-traction surfaces, Jaguar says. Other safety featur
es include 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, ABS, 6 air bags, traction control, and adjustable head restraints with an anti-whiplash feature. Warning signal, park-assist sensors, and rear fog lights are also standard.
Technology
Jaguar's new infotainment system, InControl Touch Pro, which features a 60 GB hard drive and Ethernet network, is standard on the 2016 XJ. An 8-in. display in the center console works like a smartphone, responding to swipe gestures to scroll between screens. Standard navigation includes door-to-door route planning/guidance and public transportation options. It also learns regular commutes.
In addition, Jaguar develops custom apps to connect smartphones with the car's infotainment system through a USB port. Remote software through another app allows the driver to remotely turn on the engine, program in-cabin temperatures, and even measure fuel levels.
