Jaguar launches all-new XJ flagship for 2010
Jaguar’s 2010 XJ saloon arrives with aluminium construction, a panoramic roof and a choice of V6 diesel or V8 petrol power, with UK prices from £52,500.
Jaguar has unveiled the 2010 XJ, a new flagship saloon built on an aluminium body and offered with a choice of V6 diesel or V8 petrol power. UK orders opened in July 2009, with first deliveries expected in early 2010. Prices start at £52,500 for the standard-wheelbase 3.0-litre V6 diesel Luxury model.
The new XJ moves Jaguar’s largest saloon into a modern design direction, with a lower, streamlined silhouette and a full-length panoramic glass roof. The body uses aerospace-inspired aluminium construction, which Jaguar says saves at least 150kg compared to steel-bodied competitors. The structure incorporates 50 percent recycled material, and the company claims a potential three-tonne CO2 saving per car during production compared to new aluminium.
Standard-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions are offered from launch. The long-wheelbase XJ adds 125mm of rear legroom, targeting buyers seeking extra rear comfort. Both versions share a 520-litre boot, enough for two large suitcases side by side.
Engines and performance
Jaguar offers the 2010 XJ with its latest Gen III powertrains. The entry diesel is a 3.0-litre V6, returning a claimed 40.1mpg combined and 184g/km CO2. Petrol options include a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 and two versions of the 5.0-litre supercharged V8, with the most powerful producing 470hp. All engines are paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox and drive the rear wheels.
The range includes Luxury, Premium Luxury and Portfolio trim levels, plus Supercharged and Supersport models at the top. The Supersport specification features semi-aniline leather, a leather roof lining and laser-inlaid veneers. Air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics, active differential control and quick-ratio power steering are standard across the range, aiming to deliver both ride comfort and handling precision.
Interior and technology
Inside, the XJ’s cabin moves away from traditional wood-and-leather towards a more contemporary look, with chrome and piano black details alongside the expected luxury materials. The panoramic glass roof is designed to boost the sense of space. Jaguar offers a wide choice of colours, veneers and leathers, with the aim of greater personalisation than before.
- 12.3-inch high-definition virtual instrument cluster
- 8-inch dual-view touchscreen (passenger can watch TV or DVD while driver sees navigation)
- Optional 1200W Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system
- Hard drive-based navigation and audio
- Comprehensive connectivity via Media Hub
Jaguar claims the XJ’s aluminium construction benefits not only efficiency and performance but also safety and refinement. The company also points to lower running costs, with 15,000-mile service intervals and high predicted residual values for the new model.
The 2010 XJ enters a segment with strong rivals, including the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series. Jaguar is banking on its new design, lightweight engineering and technology package to attract both existing and new customers to its flagship saloon.
