Jaguar has introduced an all-new XJ sedan range for 2011, blending the sleek lines of the brand’s new design language with its latest generation engines and chassis systems. Six model variants include standard and long-wheelbase (XJL) versions, the latter adding an additional five inches of rear legroom. The XJ’s interior is the most luxurious ever offered in a Jaguar, blending the latest infotainment technology and a wide choice of leather and wood finishes.

The all-new 2011 XJ is very much a driver’s car, agile and spirited, but without compromise to comfort. The model range includes the XJ with a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8; the XJ Supercharged with a 470-hp supercharged version of the engine, and the limited-production XJ Supersport powered by a 510-hp supercharged version. An XJ Supersport can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds yet is not subject to the Federal “gas guzzler” tax.

The new XJ is based on the next-generation of Jaguar’s lightweight vehicle architecture. Primarily aluminum, but also utilizing magnesium and composite alloys, it yields a significantly lighter and stiffer body structure than one built from steel. The construction technique employs the same aerospace-based riveting and bonding processes refined by Jaguar on the XK models and previous-generation XJ sedans.

New for 2011, all Jaguar models come standard with Jaguar Platinum Coverage, which includes for 5 years or 50,000 miles (which ever comes first) complimentary scheduled maintenance, no-cost replacement of basic wear and tear items including: brake pads and discs, oil and brake fluid changes and wiper blade inserts, 5 year/50,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and 24/7 roadside assistance.

All-New Powertrains

All 2011 XJ models are powered by variants of the AJ-V8 Gen III 5.0-liter V8 first introduced on the 2010 XF and XK models. The all-aluminum four-cam Jaguar V8 engines combine high power with high efficiency, thanks to such technologies as spray-guided direct fuel injection and dual independent variable cam timing, plus a variable inlet manifold on the naturally aspirated engine. On the XJ Supercharged and Supersport models, a twin vortex system (TVS) supercharger and twin water-cooled intercoolers are efficiently packaged in the engine’s V.

All XJ engines have 15,000-mile or one-year service intervals with free scheduled maintenance for the first 5 years or 50,000 miles courtesy of Jaguar Platinum Coverage.

All Jaguar XJ models employ an electronically controlled, fully adaptive six-speed automatic transmission with the unique cast-alloy JaguarDrive Selector™ as well as the Jaguar Sequential Shift™ function operated by steering-wheel paddles. The illuminated stop/start button pulsates like a heartbeat until pressed, when, as part of the XJ’s “handshake” sequence, the JaguarDrive Selector rises from the center console. The JaguarDrive Selector lowers automatically when the engine is stopped.

Bold, Confident Exterior; Architectural Interior Design

The nose of the XJ follows Jaguar’s new design language, with a powerful mesh grille and slim standard xenon headlights creating a strong road presence. The strong, muscular lower half of the car is contrasted with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline. The wrap-around rear window gives the impression of an exotic "floating" roof. A panoramic glass roof, standard on all XJ models, enhances the sense of light and space inside the all-new XJ.

Inside the XJ, the clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle dominates. At the sides, bold architectural wood sweeps forward from the rear doors through the front doors, meeting at center of the upper dashboard. An analog clock inspired by luxury wristwatches is located in the center of the lower dashboard. The panoramic glass roof opening mechanism slides the front glass panel upwards and outwards, preserving headroom. The roof’s dark tint and reflective coating help limit heat gain, and twin electric blinds provide another level of privacy and sun screening.

A 12.3-inch high-definition screen displays “virtual gauges” to provide the functions of traditional instrument dials. The center dial houses a speedometer, flanked on either side by a tachometer, and an information window with fuel and temperature gauges. When required, the tachometer fades to temporarily display a required warning message or menu -- for example, if fuel is running low, or to operate the Interactive VoiceTM control. When the driver selects the XJ’s Dynamic mode, the dials change to a red hue and feature a bold gear position indicator that glows red as engine speed rises.

An 8-inch touch-screen display in the center console provides easy access to many of the XJ’s functions, including climate control, audio, communications and navigation. Jaguar's latest-generation Interactive VoiceTM control system provides easy control of the standard Bluetooth®, navigation or audio systems.

Jaguar Luxury

A full secondary bulkhead, laminated windshield and door glass, streamlined aerodynamics and an optimized body structure endow the 2011 XJ with a tranquil cabin. When driven enthusiastically, however, the XJ projects an inspiring engine soundtrack. Luxurious leather adorns all of the main interior surfaces, including the seats, the instrument panel, door tops, center console and armrests. Twin-needle stitching highlights seams on the seats, and each door panel integrates a storage compartment inspired by high-quality, hand-stitched designer briefcases. The limited-production XJ Supersport model features a leather headliner, semi-aniline leather seats and woods with laser-generated inlays.

The XJ’s range of daring color and trim selections, accented by elegant switchgear and soft blue lighting, offers increased interior personalization. Eight different mirror-matched woods are available, depending on model, and carbon fiber and piano black finishes are also available. The four spherical dash vents contrast a high-gloss piano black finish with chromed metal trim, a combination repeated on the center console.

The regular-wheelbase XJ model has a standard dual-zone automatic climate control system; all others have a four-zone system, with separate controls and ventilation outlets for the left and right rear seat passengers. All XJ models come standard with heated and cooled front seats and heated rear seats and heated steering wheel. Massage front seats and cooled rear seats are also standard or available, depending on model.

Multimedia Capabilities

The all-new XJ comes standard with a CD/DVD player, HD radio, and a SIRIUSTM satellite radio receiver. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth v2.0 audio streaming and an auxiliary input jack, which all allow the user to connect iPods®, iPhonesTM and Blackberries®, for example. The audio unit utilizes a 30GB hard-disc-drive (HDD) system, so that music from CDs can be loaded onto the HDD for later listening. Gracenotes provides artist and track recognition.

A 7.1 surround sound system by the renowned British audio manufacturer Bowers & Wilkins is standard on Supercharged and Supersport models and optional on the naturally aspirated XJ and XJL. This 1,200-watt audio system combines 20 speakers powered through 15 channels and state-of-the-art sound processing technology. The first automotive application of the Audyssey MultEQ XT® audio tuning system – adapted from high-end home theater applications – digitally corrects imperfections to deliver accurate and distortion-free sound for all seating positions. In addition, the new XJ’s Bowers & Wilkins audio system marks the first automotive application of Dolby® Pro Logic IIx technology.

When the rear-seat entertainment package is ordered, passengers can view dual 8-inch LCD screens in the rear of the front headrests and listen using wireless digital headphones. A specially designed portable touch-screen controller allows passengers to select the entertainment source, with the two rear screens and all headphones controlled independently.

Advanced Chassis Dynamics

The XJ’s light but stiff structure provides a focused and responsive sporting character combined with the suppleness and refinement essential for a luxury sports sedan. The double-wishbone front suspension features weight-saving forged aluminum components and uses coil springs.

The front subframe is directly mounted to the body for enhanced steering response and handling precision. The subframe-mounted, multi-link rear suspension features lightweight cast aluminum links and air springs. Air suspension provides a level ride height regardless of load, along with a high degree of comfort, without compromising the car’s handling agility.

The new XJ also uses the advanced Adaptive Dynamics active damping system that was first employed on the XF and XK models. This system automatically tailors damper settings to suit both road conditions and the way the car is being driven. It provides a range of damping between a firmer “sport” setting and a softer setting for ride comfort, delivering an optimal balance of body control and ride quality.

XJ models are fitted with 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels in six designs, some with the additional option of a polished finish. For the first time on a Jaguar sedan, wider rear wheels with lower profile tires are fitted (compared to the front wheels and tires), optimizing grip and enhancing the vehicle’s sporting stance.

Personalized Driving Performance

On the XJ Supercharged and Supersport models, Active Differential Control optimizes available traction at each rear wheel, improving acceleration on low-grip surfaces while enhancing cornering ability. The clutch-type differential uses an internal electric motor and ball-and-ramp mechanism and transmits torque to the wheel with the most traction. This proactive system differs fundamentally from conventional traction control, which uses the brakes reactively to counteract slip after it has occurred.

To tailor the driving experience, JaguarDrive Control™ offers three transmission modes: Normal, for a comfortable, leisurely drive; Dynamic, for a more sporting and responsive character, and Winter, for greater capability in low-grip conditions. Each mode changes the characteristics of engine response, transmission shifts, Adaptive Dynamics systems and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) intervention (and Active Differential Control on Supercharged and Supersport). In Dynamic mode, gearshift points are raised, and the suspension stiffens. In Winter mode, the transmission selects second gear to help provide greater traction from a standstill and lowers engine rpm and shift points. Winter mode also modifies the traction and stability control systems to help give the driver assured progress regardless of the weather.

Safety Systems and Driver Aids

The all-new XJ provides a comprehensive set of active safety aids, including Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Understeer Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Traction Control (ETC) and Engine Drag Torque Control. On models equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), the Advanced Emergency Brake Assist uses the ACC radar to help calculate distance from and speed of approach to the vehicle ahead. The system is designed to pre-charge brake-line pressure to help minimize impact speed if a collision is predicted, with an audible warning to the driver. Two-stage driver and front passenger airbags, front side and curtain side airbags are complemented by anti-whiplash front seat structures.

Enhanced Visibility

The standard xenon headlamps are available with a system that switches the high beams on and off automatically in response to oncoming traffic and the prevailing lighting conditions. This feature is combined with adaptive lighting, which swivels the headlamps to follow the road when cornering. A standard radar-based blind-spot monitoring system alerts the XJ driver to vehicles in close proximity on either side. Standard front and rear parking sensors, with visual indicators shown through the touch-screen, and a standard backup camera aid visibility when parking.

The flagship Jaguar XJ ushered in a new interpretation of the company’s established reputation for dramatic design and – with its lightweight aluminium architecture – responsible performance. Now, the XJ Ultimate focuses on two further Jaguar hallmarks: innovation and luxury, extending the model’s emotive appeal.

Based exclusively on the long-wheelbase XJ, the interior changes applied to the Ultimate focus on the rear accommodation, extending the car’s limousine remit to provide a fully-appointed luxury business class experience for the most discerning of global customers. The XJ Ultimate offers the appointments of a private jet in a package to suit a wide range of requirements.

A full-length, leather-trimmed centre console separates the two individually tailored rear seats which feature power adjustment, ventilation, massage and lumbar functions. A table, machined from solid aluminium with piano-black and chrome detailing, rises up from the centre console at the touch of a button to provide a working area, its role supplemented by the provision of two third-generation iPads® with wireless keyboards that are housed in bespoke leather-trimmed docks in the rear of the front seats.

Switching the focus from business to pleasure is the bespoke champagne chiller mounted between the two rear seats. This cools the bottle to what experts agree is the perfect temperature before ‘presenting’ it forwards when the chiller is opened. Two specially commissioned champagne flutes reside in a purpose made cabinet beneath the centre table.

A full rear seat package with twin headrest screens and wireless headphones completes the experience in combination with a new 20-speaker surround sound in-car entertainment system developed by British audio experts Meridian.

To underline its purpose in ensuring that passengers remain cosseted at all times, the XJ Ultimate features revisions to the suspension to optimise rear ride comfort, with no compromise to the car’s breadth of dynamic ability.

The exterior detailing of the XJ Ultimate offers discreet clues to the model’s figurehead status with sculpted lower air intakes chromed to match the grille, polished stainless steel oval exhaust pipe finishers, unique dual-surfaced alloy wheels and subtle ‘Ultimate’ badging.

The XJ Ultimate is available with Jaguar’s existing 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol engine, its powerful and efficient 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel, and a new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol unit, all driving the rear wheels via an eight-speed transmission.

EXTERIOR

The Jaguar XJ introduced a mouldbreaking coupé design ethos to its class, taking Jaguar’s established principle of long, unbroken feature lines and applying them to a decidedly 21st century form. Dramatically different from its competitors, the all-aluminium XJ captures the essential Jaguar design elements of elegance, muscularity, sleekness and strength.

The detail changes applied to the XJ Ultimate serve to subtly enhance the inherent rightness of the car’s design, making it clear that this is the luxurious flagship of the range.

The lower front air intakes are reshaped and chrome finished, matching the powerful Jaguar grille, while LED daytime-running lights underline the assertively shaped headlamps.

The 20-inch Maroa forged alloy wheels are unique to this model and feature a dual-tone colour scheme. A dark grey, technical finish is applied to the inner surfaces of the spokes which contrasts with the bright, polished surfacing on the outer edges, combining to create an appearance that is both glamorous and purposeful.

Anyone following an XJ Ultimate will be in no doubt that the model is a cut above, as it is distinguished by new oval tailpipe finishers in polished stainless steel that echo the front air intakes and a discreet metal ‘Ultimate’ badge underneath the ‘XJ’ nameplate. The ‘Ultimate’ badging is repeated in the power vents set into the front fenders.

The first 20 Ultimate models made will be painted in Celestial Black, but customers can also order their car in Polaris White – and any colour in between. In addition to an exclusive extended palette of paint colours, including a new ‘chromaflare’ range, XJ Ultimate customers can order their car colour-matched to any shade of their choosing on provision of a suitable sample for a true bespoke experience.

INTERIOR

Jaguar has always prided itself on creating unique cabin environments and the interior architecture of the XJ is like no other, combining graceful and unexpected forms with quality materials that reward the senses with their tactility, visual splendour and luxury.

Unique finish and personalisation

Now, the Ultimate’s position as the XJ range’s luxury flagship is apparent from the moment the door is opened. A unique wood veneer, crafted using straight ebony, has been formed into a Herringbone pattern with mirror image upper and lower halves separated by a strip of piano black veneer. The Herringbone pattern forms fillets in the doors and at the front of the car runs around the base of the windscreen to create a dramatic feature that mimics the form of classic wooden-hulled power boats. The clock mounted in the dashboard is also unique to the model with a brushed aluminium face, embossed lozenge detail and ‘spun’ bright finish.

The XJ Ultimate is offered in three interior colourways for the sumptuous leather that covers virtually every surface and is also used for the headlining; Jet on Jet, or Ivory seats and lower surfaces with either Mineral or Bordeaux uppers.

Further personalisation is offered through customers being able to specify the headrests embroidered with a pattern of their choice. The ‘Ultimate’ intaglio which sits in the centre of the sweep of Herringbone veneer under the windscreen can also be changed to read whatever the owner wishes.

The XJ Ultimate brings a particular focus to the rear seat passengers to create an ambience that carefully balances the requirements of the modern, on-the-move businessperson with certain surprise-and-delight features that underline the XJ’s ‘work hard, play hard’ personality and reward the discerning owner who appreciates the sense of fun with which Jaguar imbues all its products.

Tailored rear seating

In the Ultimate the XJ’s standard rear bench has been replaced by two unique and individual seats designed specifically for this model. Elegant, cosseting and ergonomically optimised, the tailored seats are covered in semi-aniline leather which offers a more luxurious and tactile finish and allows the hide to retain its essential qualities of look and feel, complemented by the hand-finished stitching.

The seats feature winged headrests, powered recline and four-way lumbar adjustment functions to allow passengers to achieve the seating position perfect for them. The comfort levels offered by the seats are enhanced through the inclusion of on-demand massage, heating and cooling functions.

The occupant positioned behind the front passenger seat is also provided with a stow-away button that automatically powers the empty chair forwards to increase still further the XJ’s generous legroom. The front seats follow the same unique design as the rears and offer identical functions with an additional range of electric movement allowing 20 by 20 adjustment.

The seats are divided by a centre console running along the length of the car. Fully trimmed in soft-grain leather, piano black veneer and chrome, the console houses a number of features exclusive to the XJ Ultimate. At the touch of a button a table machined from a solid piece of aluminium with a gloss black and chrome finish rises up to then be pivoted into position in front of whichever passenger requires its use.

Chilled to Perfection

Raising the table reveals the first of the XJ Ultimate’s surprise and delight features, a pair of champagne flutes in a bespoke recess flock-lined in either Mauveine or Jet and lit by phosphor blue ambient lighting. Within the centre console are ‘fluteholders’, designed specifically for these glasses and machined from solid aluminium.

The flutes are, of course, there for a reason: discreetly integrated between the rear seat backs, covered in soft-grain leather and marked by a chrome Jaguar leaper is a hidden champagne chiller. Lined in the same flock as the champagne flute recess to give the impression of a bespoke suit lining, it holds one standard sized champagne bottle which, when the cabinet door is opened, is effortlessly presented forwards to the passengers. The champagne is kept perfectly chilled at the optimum temperature range of 7°C-10°C.

TECHNOLOGY

Rear-seat passengers are also provided with a range of entertainment options to enjoy while sipping their champagne. The XJ Ultimate is fitted as standard with Jaguar’s Rear Seat Entertainment package which comprises two eight-inch high-resolution screens mounted on the back of the front seat headrests.

These can display inputs from a number of sources; the DVD player, digital TV tuner or an external media player that can be synced through the Rear Media Interface, which provides USB and RCA connections. Sound can be provided through the wireless headphones, allowing each passenger to watch separate entertainment sources.

The rear seat environment, including the entertainment, is managed by a wireless controller housed in the centre console and which also allows passengers to alter their individual climate zones and seat heating and cooling functions.

Meridian Surround Sound

The XJ Ultimate is also fitted as standard with the latest generation of in-car audio systems. Specifically developed for the XJ by British ultra-premium audio experts Meridian, marking a new partnership for Jaguar, the Meridian Surround Sound System fitted to the XJ Ultimate uses the latest technological developments to deliver music reproduction that is second to none.

Unlike other manufacturers, Meridian designs and manufactures audio systems that combine innovative technology with the most natural of approaches: comparing their musical reproduction to the sound of the original musical performance.

The 15-channel amplifier, 20-loudspeaker system features Meridian’s unique digital sound processing technology that allows every person travelling in the XJ Ultimate to enjoy a musical experience that places them in the centre of the sound field. Meridian achieves this through its Trifield technology which creates an all-enveloping sound field that makes each listener feel that the music is exclusively focused on him or her.

Meridian technology achieves a level of natural detail, realism and performance usually associated with speakers eight times the physical volume. Meridian Cabin Correction and Dynamic Volume Control precisely and effortlessly minimise resonances and monitor extraneous noise levels to allow the audio to be unobtrusively maintained at a constant volume in order for it to be perfectly heard whatever the circumstances.

iPad Integration

In addition to the entertainment on offer, the XJ Ultimate also provides a pair of third-generation iPads® with wireless keyboards. The iPads® are housed within specially designed leather-trimmed docks in the rear of the front seats and hidden behind roller doors, also finished in tailored leather. The iPads® are automatically kept charged whenever the ignition is on and also included in the cabinets are wireless keyboards to allow the tablets to be used without being removed from their docks if required.

PERFORMANCE AND DYNAMICS

To underline its purpose in ensuring that passengers remain cosseted at all times, the XJ Ultimate features revisions to the air-sprung rear suspension for optimised ride compliance. While this provides a truly relaxing experience for rear seat passengers, the XJ Ultimate loses none of the model’s core dynamic abilities and so is as rewarding to drive as it is to be driven in. The XJ’s lightweight aluminium construction means a weight saving over its rivals of as much as 150kg. This of course offers great advantages in terms of agility, acceleration, braking and driver feedback and involvement.

The aluminium architecture also provides benefits in terms of emissions and fuel consumption, allowing the XJ to provide an astonishing balance of performance and frugality from its range of highly efficient, refined and muscular engines.

The XJ Ultimate will be offered with Jaguar’s existing and acclaimed 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine in supercharged form, and the equally highly regarded 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel. With 510PS and 625Nm of torque, the supercharged V8 provides astonishingly vivid performance, the diesel V6 offering uncannily smooth and potent progress while returning fuel consumption figures of 40.1mpg (EU) on the combined cycle.

The XJ Ultimate will also be offered with a new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine being introduced to the range for the 2013 model year. This engine, which in the XJ Ultimate will produce 340PS and 450Nm, draws on the award-winning technology inherent to Jaguar’s V8 and offers similar performance to the naturally-aspirated version of that engine (which is not available in the XJ Ultimate), but with the emissions and fuel economy advantages of a V6.

The 3.0-litre V6 S/C will be offered in tandem with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop-Start system and, in common with all powertrain options, will drive the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Jaguar will expand its R performance line-up with the global debut of the XJR at the 2013 New York International Automobile Show. The new high-performance model, the dynamic flagship of the XJ series, will join the expanding Jaguar line-up on display that includes All-Wheel Drive sedans and the F-TYPE sports car, which goes on sale this summer.

With a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine delivering 550PS and bespoke chassis and aerodynamic developments, the XJR is the most focused, agile and responsive Jaguar XJ ever made. It delivers supercar performance and assertive looks with the highest levels of luxury.

According to Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar: "Thenew XJR epitomises the three pillars of technology, performance and contemporary design which the Jaguar brand stands for in the twenty-first century, while delivering new levels of dynamic ability in a luxury saloon."

2014 Jaguar XJR Unveiled At The New York Auto Show

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

XJR Standard Wheelbase $116,000

XJR Long Wheelbase $119,000

At a Glance

- The 2014 Jaguar XJR is a 550 horsepower sports sedan which combines supercar performance with the opulence and comfort of British luxury

- Every XJ is constructed on an all-aluminum body structure, and assembled using aerospace derived aluminum bonding and riveting techniques

- With a 5-liter supercharged V8 engine delivering 550hp and 502 lb/ft of torque, the XJR is capable of sprinting from zero to 60mph in 4.4 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds) and accelerate on to an electronically limited top speed of 174mph (280km/h)2

- An eight-speed ZF automatic transmission features bespoke performance tuning for the XJR and enables forceful acceleration while maintaining a composed character when driving conditions are more reserved

- Functional aerodynamic improvements are provided by a new front air splitter, aerodynamic rocker sills, an additional rear spoiler, and hood vents

- Development testing was done at many challenging locations, including the Nurburgring circuit in Germany, where Jaguar maintains a Test Center

- Performance tuned springs and continuously variable dampers

- Electronic Active Differential and Dynamic Stability Control systems have been calibrated to match the handling characteristics of the XJR, allowing the driver to fully explore the performance envelope

- 20-inch forged alloy wheels, shod with low-profile performance tires, enhance grip and lend the car a dynamic, muscular stance

- Exclusive Sport Seats

- Available in Standard and Long Wheelbase versions

"The new XJR epitomizes the three pillars of technology, performance and seductive design which the Jaguar brand stands for in the twenty-first century, while delivering new levels of dynamic ability in a luxury sedan."
-Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar

(MAHWAH, N.J.) - March 26, 2013- The XJR returns to the Jaguar model line as the quintessential Jaguar flagship sports sedan, offering British luxury with extraordinary sporting performance. The XJR incorporates bespoke chassis and aerodynamic developments to create the most sporting member of the XJ sedan family.

"This XJR is the flagship XJ and I'm delighted we've got it back into the range. This is a premium luxury supercar that also has an extremely purposeful look to it. This car will surprise, there's no doubt about it."
- Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar

Powertrain

Spirited performance is provided by a 5-liter supercharged V8 engine that provides 550hp and 502 lb/ft of torque. Functional aerodynamic components including a front air splitter, functional hood vents, and quad tailpipes also add to the car's purposeful demeanor. Combined with an eight-speed transmission that extends the performance characteristics of the car, the XJR is capable of accelerating from zero to 60mph in 4.4 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds) and on to an electronically limited top speed of 174mph (280km/h).2

This all-aluminum V8 engine delivers exhilarating performance and efficiency thanks to technologies such as spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) and dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT). The high-pressure die-cast lightweight aluminum block is stiffened with cast-iron liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps, providing refinement to match its power. The engine breathes through aluminum four-valve cylinder heads, and the intake is pressurized by a Roots-type twin vortex supercharger. Two air to liquid intercoolers, which feature their own water-cooling circuit, reduce the temperature of the intake charge to optimize power and efficiency.

Maximizing the benefit of the engine calibration is the eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission system brings out the sporting nature of the XJR while still maintaining the car's composure in town and in low-speed driving environments.

When operating in automatic mode, the transmission can detect the manner in which the car is being driven by monitoring acceleration, braking, cornering forces, throttle application, brake pedal activity, road load, and kick down request. On detecting a more enthusiastic driving style, the transmission will automatically make the gearshifts more aggressively and move the upshift point to a higher RPM. Steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles allow manual gear selection.
Corner Recognition senses when the car is negotiating a curve, and the transmission will hold the correct gear for the exit. The transmission will also recognize when the car is performing a series of overtaking maneuvers requiring rapid changes in throttle position and, rather than change up, remain in a lower gear ready for the next demand for acceleration.

The Jaguar Intelligent Stop/Start system is standard. This system automatically reduces idling by stopping the engine when the car comes to a stop with brake pedal depressed. When the brake pedal is released, the system will restart the engine in less time than it takes for the driver's foot to move from the brake pedal to the accelerator. A twin solenoid system which features separate actuation of starter gear engagement and drive motor actuation, it allows for 'change of mind' functionality, bringing the engine back up to speed even during its run-down phase if, for instance, the car is coming to a halt at an intersection and the driver sees an opportunity to join the traffic flow.

Dynamics

"The XJR offers greater steering precision, higher levels of control and enhanced high speed stability, with the trade-off in refinement being very small. The increase in power and torque give this car truly effortless, seamless performance."
-Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity, Jaguar

The suspension system has been extensively tuned on both road and track, using the legendary Nürburgring circuit in Germany, the high-speed Rockingham circuit in England, and the winding roads of England and Wales.

Tuned dampers and spring rates maximize the sporting handling capabilities of the car while providing the signature ride comfort expected of a Jaguar. Jaguar Adaptive Dynamics actively controls vertical body movement, roll, and pitch rates through the use of continuously variable dampers. The system monitors driver inputs and the road conditions, adjusting damper rates in response up to 500 times a second. The driver's selection of Dynamic Mode calibrates the damping rates to the firmer end of the available range.

The Jaguar active electronically controlled differential can apply full locking torque almost instantaneously when necessary, and has been calibrated to utilize the high levels of grip and power. Working in parallel with the differential, the 'Trac DSC' setting of the Dynamic Stability Control system now offers the enthusiastic driver more opportunity to explore the outer edges of the handling envelope. The steering hydraulics and calibration have also been engineered to enhance steering feel, response and feedback under all driving conditions.

In order to achieve the maximum benefit from the suspension, the XJR has new lightweight, forged 20-inch alloy wheels. The tires were specifically developed for Jaguar in conjunction with Pirelli. They are 265/35-20 and 295/30-20 front/rear and have been specified to deliver optimal cornering grip, traction and stability over a wide range of speed and performance parameters.
The Jaguar High Performance Braking System offers an unmatched combination of power, stability and fine modulation. The 15" (380mm) front and 14.8" (376mm) rear discs are internally ventilated.

Design

"The Design Team wanted to create a graphic link to the performance credentials of this car, as well as delivering the optimal balance of aerodynamic down force front and rear. Hence the chrome-rimmed intakes on the front bumper have become an 'R' model 'signature element', acting as a visual reference to the car's twin superchargers, while the front aero splitters are complemented by the rear spoiler. We really dialed up the visual content on the XJR, compared to its predecessors; it's where our customers now expect it to be."

-Wayne Burgess, Studio Director, Jaguar Design

The appearance of the XJR has been modified with functional aerodynamic enhancements. The side rocker sills, unique to the XJR, serve to create a sharp break-off point between the bodywork and the road surface in order to keep the airflow attached to the car's sides for as long as possible. Rear lift is also reduced through the fitment of a trunk lid-mounted lip spoiler to manage the airflow off the top rear surface of the car, while hood vents aid in aerodynamics and engine cooling.

XJR customers can choose from an extensive exterior color palette including: Polaris White, Ebony, Ultimate Black, Stratus Grey, Lunar Grey, Rhodium Silver, Cashmere, Caviar, Carnelian Red, British Racing Green and Italian Racing Red.

The car's dynamic intent is underlined by the palette of materials used on the interior. Jet Black leather trim is available with a choice of either Ivory, London Tan or Red Zone inserts on the seat facings or simply Red Zone or London Tan contrast stitching. The seats themselves are embossed with the 'R' logo. Jet Black suede cloth headlining is standard. Interior veneers are available in either Carbon Fiber or Piano Black.

The five-spoke, lightweight forged alloy wheels provide the XJR with a purposeful, broad shouldered stance and come as standard in either Sparkle silver or Technical grey finishes. The assertive appearance of the XJR is further enhanced with a gloss black front grille and lower intake mesh, with chrome surrounds.

"The XJR is the sporting pinnacle of the XJ range. This car has been dynamically set-up from the outset to deliver stunning performance, while still retaining the luxury and comfort common to the entire XJ range."

-Andrew Dobson, Chief Program Engineer, Jaguar XJR

An 825 watt, 18-speaker surround-sound system from British audio experts Meridian™ is standard. Recognized by audiophiles as a leader in audio reproduction, Meridian has developed a proprietary Trifield™ System that places every occupant at the center of their own perfectly focused surround-sound arena.