2010 Jaguar XJ
The current XJ sedan might look old, but under the skin it is completely modern, built with an aluminum unibody that gives it a decided weight advantage over other luxury sedans. With a remarkably well-tuned chassis, it is also great to drive. The market has reacted with utter indifference, though, due to the carryover styling. That should change when the new XJ goes on sale at the end of the year. Jaguar design boss Ian Callum and managing director Mike O'Driscoll have been forthright in stating that the new car is a 180-degree turnaround from the outgoing XJ. It's safe to assume that the new generation of the Jaguar AJ-V8 engine, in both normally aspirated and supercharged form, will be offered in the States.
THE XJ'S NEW CLOTHES: If Callum delivers, the new XJ promises to be akin to Burberry, the famous fashion brand that has recently taken on a decidedly modern tone while retaining its own distinct British style. We can only hope. ...next page >>