Beautiful and fast like all Jaguars, with powerful engines, the XJ is peerless. Because of the car´s aluminium bodyshell and reduced weight, compared to prior steel body, a rich complement of equipment is incorporated without sacrificing performance or strength. And interior space, especially in long wheelbase models, is generous, satisfying owners who desire ample legroom in both the front and the rear. XJ. Agile, tasteful, impeccably mannered Under the hood of every XJ, a surging V8 throbs. In standard trim, the engine is a 4.2-litre aluminium V8 developing 300 horsepower with cam phasing to boost throttle response and reduce emissions. And this torque-rich power addresses the road with ardor. Gear changes are accomplished via a 6-speed ZF transmission, matched to the car´s power curve to deliver smooth, precise shifts. In the R version, one of Jaguar´s most powerful production engines, a supercharger is added, increasing output to 400 horsepower and enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds. Of the five XJ models, XJR is decidedly the most thrilling. And one reason why is the way the car goes where you intend. You are in command, but a host of astute helpers support your effort. The body, a rivet-bonded aluminium alloy monocoque, is 40% lighter than steel, yet stiffer and stronger. Independent, forged aluminium double-wishbone suspension with larger anti-roll bars, featuring R-tuned self-levelling air springs and enhanced Computer Active Technology, analyzes road conditions and curtails pitch and roll. Speed-sensitive, variable-ratio power steering imparts a firm feel at higher speeds and improves on-centre stability. Positive direction, indeed. XJ´s remarkable system of occupant protection helps reassure any driver. Pretensioned 3-point safety belts serve all seating positions, and energy absorbent seats help guard front passengers. Adaptive Restraint Technology deploys driver and passenger airbags according to numerous factors including occupant position, weight and safety belt use, and side curtain airbags drop from above doors to help shield occupants. Traction control varies power to wheels to limit slip. Four-channel anti-lock brakes, largest in the XJR and Super V8, stop the car with confidence and¾in demanding conditions¾team with Dynamic Stability Control to vary braking force at each wheel to help manage grip. Individual tire pressure is continuously monitored, even the spare. Emergency Brake Assist measures brake pedal activation in emergencies and initiates full braking effect. And built into the car´s aluminium body are crumple zones and a rigid safety cell. Comforting, all in all. Carrosserie Vanden Plas, a company of premium coachbuilders, originated in Belgium in 1870. Today, that name is synonymous with refined, limousine-type motorcars, and forms the identification plate on the Vanden Plas. Substantial, sleek and competent, this is a car for the senses. Long, fluid lines evoke a lifelike grace and elegance. Passenger spaces are open and welcoming to the extent that warm lamb´s wool rugs are specified for footwells. What is timeless about a Jaguar is the care and craft lavished on its finishes. The look, feel and function of the interior are legend, prompting one to touch and try. But really, when leathers are hand-selected and fitted, when controls and electronics are precise, when Burl Walnut is hand crafted and Peruvian boxwood is hand inlaid, and when all of this wonder is assured by comprehensive warrantees, this isn´t so much a surprise as it is…fulfillment. One could regard the XJ, especially a long-wheelbase Vanden Plas, as a sort of private kingdom, equipped as you would have it, crafted to emulate your preferences, your place in the world. And, fitted with touches like select Elm interior accents and available chrome alloy wheels, this automobile becomes individual indeed. The Super V8 is an exquisitely equipped long-wheelbase XJ model, with 16-way adjustable leather seats that are climate-controlled, pedals that adapt to driver height, and heated steering wheel—all with memory settings.1 This spacious car is also the longest in its class, favouring rear passengers with abundant rear leg room and special amenities including electronically adjustable seats, reading lamps, fold-down picnic trays, power rear sunblind and controls for audio, video and climate. The Bluetooth enabled telephone system is controlled from the steering wheel and from the Touch-screen. It allows the driver to make and receive calls safely and easily using a Bluetooth® compatible mobile phone without the need for wires or cradles. In the Super V8, expect some very accomplished assistance. Like Adaptive Cruise Control that uses radar technology to monitor slower traffic ahead and apply braking when required to maintain distance. Front and reverse parking controls sense objects in your way. A central console with 7-in. (17.8 cm) colour touchscreen offers DVD-based navigation, Bluetooth® wireless technology, audio and climate control. Rain-sensing windscreen wipers provide a clear view. And an electronic parking brake activates when your remove your key.2 Even JaguarVoice voice-activation.3 All discretely and unobtrusively at your service. Even before it moves, the Super V8 soothes you, surrounds you with repose, and creates anticipation for the journey. From 4-zone climate control to soft, air-dampened suspension for undisturbed travel. From premium 12-speaker, 320-watt Alpine® sound and 6-disc auto-changer, to multimedia entertainment with twin seatback screens for DVDs or games. From acoustic damping integrated into side windows for peace and quiet to an accessory iPod® connectivity module4. The Super V8 defines motoring luxury. |
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