Automobile overview: Jaguar 3. V6 Diesel Extended-Wheelbase

Powerful but refined, the Jaguar makes every single journey a special occasion, writes vehicle reviewer Tim Barnes-Clay.

Jaguars are nicely-identified for their sophisticated, sporting lines, and the 2014 model year Jaguar XJ, with its sinuous, modern style doesn’t disappoint.

The robust, muscular reduce half of the vehicle is contrasted with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline, which requires inspiration from the original 1968 XJ saloon.

The front of the car is quite commanding with a big grill and an assertive face – rather like the BMW 5-Series.

Desirable features

At the rear, the vehicle has a clean, sculpted shape, with an absence of unnecessary ornamentation.

The sheet metal of the back panel retains its pure type, with a single leaping Jaguar motif generating a strong, self-possessed statement.

The LED light clusters wrap stylishly more than the rear wings, and feature 3 dramatic red, vertical strips.

It is all incredibly eye-catching.

Luxury cabin

Step inside the XJ extended-wheelbase (LWB) model, on test right here, and you’ll see rear cabin luxury choices which contain airline-style reclining seats with massage function, enhanced headroom and fold-out organization tables.

The entertainment system has been improved with 2 hi-resolution touchscreens, and a specially re-tuned rear suspension set-up enhances rear seat ride comfort too.

The overriding impression is a sense of individual space – a feeling enhanced by the simple kind of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the automobile.

At the sides of the cabin, a daring architectural wood veneer sweeps forward from the doors to meet at the front of the auto, emphasising the Jaguar XJ’s potent, dynamic character.

Welcoming atmosphere

This linear, modern day use of wood assists to develop a genuinely welcoming atmosphere.

Behind the wheel, you’re greeted by the rotary manage of the JaguarDrive selector, which, on begin-up, rises into your palm.

Then 3D animations materialise in the virtual instrument cluster and on the central touch-screen.

But the weirdest issue is that there’s no physical instrument cluster show.

-62mph in 6.4 seconds

Rather, a higher-definition screen, which uses delightfully detailed virtual instruments, provides all of the functions performed by traditional dials.

It creates a genuine sense of theatre, but far more importantly it functions well.

Under the bonnet, the XJ oil-burner positive aspects from a potent and efficient 3.-litre V6 powertrain, coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The lump, boosted by twin turbochargers, propels the vehicle from -62mph in just 6.4 secs, then up to 155mph.

Quiet ride

It feels each bit as quickly behind the wheel as it suggests it is on paper: it’s an awesome sensation – reminiscent of taking off in a plane.

But it isn’t all about muscle: on the move in the Midlands-created large cat the low level of road-rumble means you can chat with your passengers without having the need to shout.

Even when you bury your proper foot into the shag-pile carpet there’s not considerably far more than a low grunt from the twin exhaust pipes.

In truth, it is really difficult to tell it apart from a petrol-powered automobile once it is cruising.

You will need to have deep pockets

Indeed, the 2014 XJ LWB model makes every single journey a unique occasion, both for you and your passengers.

But this level of sophistication doesn’t come cut-cost.

You’ll have to splash close to £60,000 for the Luxury 3. V6 Diesel version.

And you will want to have even deeper pockets if you want to drive the greater up the range XJ Portfolio.

Pros & cons

• Very Eye-catching √


• Effective √


• Refined √


• Expensive X

Rapidly facts

• Max speed: 155 mph


• -62 mph: 6.4 seconds


• Combined mpg: 44.8


• Engine: 2993cc, 24 valve V6 twin turbo diesel


• Max. energy (bhp): 271 at 4000 rpm


• Max. torque (lb/ft): 443 at 2000 rpm


• CO2 167 g/km


• Cost: £59,980 on the road

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Automobile overview: Jaguar 3. V6 Diesel Extended-Wheelbase