life style

in brief


Posted on 2008-06-08 10:30:00 | by: G-A.G | 0 Comments
Article Type: Driven | Tags: JAGUAR, V8, SEDAN, ALUMINUM


An aluminum fist in a velvet glove

Jaguar XJR


Identity :
The XJ is Jaguar's luxury saloon, the R Version, spices things up with a supercharged V8 engine producing 400 horsepower. This great cocktail of style and performance is aimed at the potential owners of the S Class Mercedes, 7 Series BMW or Audi A8, only to mention the German competitors.

Headlines :
4.2 liter supercharged V8, 400bhp, rear wheel drive.
5,09m long ( 5,21m in "long"version ), 1660 kg ( 3660 lbs )
6 speeds automatic gearbox.
0 to 100 km/h : 5’’6s
Top speed : 250 km/h, 155 mph (autolimited).
Prix : 97 300 €


Jaguar XJR, HDTV
(WMV9HD 720p Direct Download "Right click, Save as…")

Design :
At first look, the differences with the previous generation of XJ appear minimal but the new version is thinner and much lighter thanks to the use of aluminium. The traditional and pure Jaguar design is what defines this car best, enthusiast should love it as the next version will radically change in style, adopting the identity of the new XF.

Interior :
The unique atmosphere of a Jaguar's interior can simply not be mistaken for any other. Unfortunately, the "Ford years" (Jaguar is now owned by Indian giant TATA) have proved to have kind of a negative effect on certain materials, and the overall quality is not as excellent as in the German autos...the TouchScreen navigation system is a pain to use but the seats are very comfortable and are large enough to turn long rides into a pleasant time.

On the Road :
The XJR clearly benefits from its lightweight construction and powerful and oh so marvelous V8 motor. Naught to 100 takes less than 6 seconds, quite an achievement for this British lady. Even better, this big Jaguar provides great handling and agility despite brakes fading a bit early when pushed too hard too often. Of course, the XJR will always prefer to be driven on freeways and highways rather than on WRC super stages, but anyway, who will be so stupid as to even think of putting some mud on this Milady.

Final words :
Not at the top of its genre, but not at the bottom either, the Jaguar XJR sets itself apart from its traditional competitors and provides an original alternative to German autos by giving you an exquisite sense of comfort and luxury.

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