Jaguar XJ

Jaguar XJ in Nigeria

The car’s high speed, combined with its low driving position, wraparound cockpit, and precise handling, make it the best driver's car in its class. It gives the sense that you're driving a sports car until you look back and notice how much space there is behind you.

Despite modifications in size, form, and style, one thing has stayed constant for this car model from its inception 50 years ago: it has always been Jaguar's flagship model.

The most recent version, on the other hand, is rather old and currently competes in a class crowded with tech-laden luxury barges from big-selling manufacturers.

The car competes with premium vehicles such as the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but the carmaker’s history of producing high-powered, sumptuous, rear-wheel-drive saloons means it should be a better car to drive than its rivals.

The major problem here is whether it can be pleasant to drive while yet being as smooth and comfortable as a premium automobile.

There is only one 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine available, however, there are two wheelbase lengths and four trim choices. There is also a big list of lavish possibilities.

Is the car able to stay up with the rest of the pack? We will see about that in a short while. If you've already fallen in love with the XJ, head over to our platform on Cars45 to check the car out.

How does it feel to drive the Jaguar XJ

Because there is only one engine option, the car has a simple engine lineup. The 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine produces 296bhp and 516lb-ft of torque. It has always been a favorite model in the lineup, so the fact that it is currently the only option is a good thing.

Because of the massive amounts of low-down torque, this engine provides adequate performance and a lot of overtaking capability.

The engine provides all the pace you'd need in everyday commuting and readily manages motorway schleps, but there is no longer a performance-focused halo model giving the kind of blazing speed that top-spec competition cars offer.

Handling and control of the Jaguar XJ

The car is smaller and lighter than many of its competitors. Even in long-wheelbase form, it feels incredibly agile and changes direction with little body roll, giving the appearance of a much smaller car.

The steering is crisp and fairly sharp on turn-in, weights up organically as you start to corner harder, and provides relatively good feedback for this class.

Interior of the Jaguar XJ

In the car, finding a comfortable driving position is simple. Front seats with 14-way electrical adjustment are standard. Seats with additional flexibility (18-way) and a massage feature are available at a higher price point. The controls for the chairs are easily located and simple to use.

The steering wheel's reach and rake can be adjusted electronically. It's covered in buttons, but they're small and easy to find your way around. Meanwhile, the pedals are perfectly situated, so you won't have to sit awkwardly.

Visibility and Parking

The model has pretty narrow front pillars and mirrors that aren't overly huge, so it's simple to see where you're going. These features, combined with a low window line, make it simple to pull out of junctions or onto roundabouts.

Cost of ownership

The car is marginally less expensive than the Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series, but not by much, while the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is significantly more expensive.

The V6 diesel emits a lot of CO2 and is far outperformed by its competitors in this category, so it won't be the cheapest company car option. Meanwhile, the claimed fuel efficiency is lower than that of its competitors.

It's a similar scenario with residual values – luxury cars don't have a strong reputation for keeping their worth, but even so, the car falls short when compared to the competition.

Are you ready to buy the Jaguar XJ in Nigeria?

Visit our platform online on Cars45 to buy yours and the best and affordable rates from the options available for sale.