Buying, Owning & Improving
Ian Cushway searches out new and used parts prices
Jaguar XJ (X351)
If traditional Jaguar buyers were taken aback by the XF when it was rolled out as a replacement for the S-TYPE, the firm’s treatment of the new XJ in 2009 was even more controversial. Like the old car, it was sleek and easy on the eye – but here’s the rub.
It couldn’t have looked more different to the old X350, a design that had gently evolved over the past five decades since the first XJ appeared in 1968.
Like most of us, Jaguar had learned to keep a close eye on weight and had pioneered the use of aluminium, magnesium and composite alloys on its previous XJ. However, to add refinement and create more room inside, the firm made the X351 both wider and longer, which resulted in the new car being heavier than its predecessor.
And this probably explains why Jaguar didn’t bother with the puny 240bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder here, thinking it would have been a step too far for diehard XJ enthusiasts.
Instead, initially there was the naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 and the 3.0d V6 twin-turbo diesel which offered punchy performance and the potential for 40mpg. A supercharged version of the V8 appeared in the XJR version from 2013 and soon after Jaguar added its supercharged 3.0-litre AJ V6 petrol engine to the line-up.
Alas, in a market where versatility is key and SUVs continue to attract the biggest
slice of buyers, luxury five-seater saloons have become increasingly niche and even the XJ’s supercar-like performance couldn’t save it from extinction. Indeed, by the end of 2018 monthly XJ sales had dwindled into their hundreds – hence the decision to call a halt to XJ proceedings in July 2019 with the last, unsold cars being registered in 2020.
Visually the X351 changed very little throughout its production lifespan, although there was a revision in 2012 when more alloy components were added to the suspension to improve handling and the eight-speed ZF auto transmission from the XF replaced the original six-speed ’box. Then, in 2018, there was a more substantial refresh when all models received a revised cabin with a 10in touchscreen and more safety equipment which now included Autonomous Emergency Braking.
Which model?
► Trim levels start with the Autobiography, followed by the Luxury, Portfolio, Premium Luxury, R-Sport, XJR, Supersport and Ultimate, not forgetting to mention the 50th anniversary 3.0d XJ50. Even the base model will make you feel spoilt as all XJs are laden with luxuries. Sought after options include massaging rear seats, Sports and Speed packs which add visual drama in the form of black gloss trim and 20in Venom alloys, and the Meridian 825W sound system if you like your music.
Engine choice is down to personal prefer
