2008 Jaguar XJ-Series Review

The XJ is the flagship of the Jaguar lineup, and was first produced in 1968. It was the last Jaguar to be personally overseen by its founder, Sir William Lyons. The current generation debuted in 2003.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Jaguar XJ-Series is a classic line of luxury sedans, with some of the most extravagant features on the market. While plush, it is surpassed in some ways by its younger competitors. However, it remains a classic luxury experience.

What’s New For 2008:

The exterior has been restyled with a new front fascia, power vents, bumper, and spoiler. The seats have been redesigned for more leg room and standard heating. HD radio and cooled seats are now available.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the XJ 3 stars for dependability. Problems with the last generation included transmission failures, inaccurate gauges, difficult starting, blown power seat fuses, and transmission leaks. It was recalled twice. Problems with the current model include dead batteries, water leaks, vehicle noise, inaccurate gas gauges, and flaky parking sensors. It’s been recalled five times for flaky transmissions, cut airbags, shattering moonroof glass, and faulty fuel tank seals. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, and stability control come standard. Also included is Jaguar’s Adaptive Restraint Technology System that monitors passengers’ weight and position in order to know when and how to deploy airbags.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Luxurious interior
+ Powerful acceleration
+ Smooth ride

Cons
– Small trunk
– Complex controls
– Lacking some high tech features

Head-To-Head Competition:

The BMW 5 Series 550i costs several thousand less, includes navigation, and has 60 more hp, but lacks a moonroof. The Lexus LS 460 costs a couple thousand less, includes a CD changer, and has 80 more hp, but lacks a moonroof. The Cadillac STS includes a CD changer, but costs a few hundred more.

What Others Are Saying:

“The styling, performance and affordability of Jaguar XJ models made them desirable even when they weren’t especially reliable. Reliability has been enhanced a lot, thanks to Ford’s ownership of this venerable British automaker. The XJ thus is among the top luxury-performance sedan buys.” – Chicago Sun-Times“

“The XJ is the kind of car many people dream of owning but few do. Talk to owners and they will say it’s a car that they will never forget driving.” – The Times Online

“If a lambs wool rug surrounding your feet as you work on your computer on a pull-down tray in the back seat of your luxury auto sounds appealing, there’s a way to fulfill that wish. Try Jaguar’s XJ sedan on for size.” – Road & Travel

Read more about the 2008 Jaguar XJ-Series at the Jaguar manufacturer web site.