Thanks Ray. Hope you enjoy my initial views.
Initial Thoughts
The 2016 XJ does look like something special, the differences to the previous model are very subtle but give the car even more presence in my opinion. I'm 750 miles in so thought I would give you a review of my findings.
Exterior
With it being the Autobiography model the front bumper looks similar to the XJ Ultimate which was unveiled at the 2012 Beijing Motorshow. The alloy wheel design was also taken from this model.
http://newsroom.jaguarlandrover.com/med ... 230412.pdf
The front grill is bigger than before and more upright which gives this car a more aggressive front with new J Blade LED Headlights. I also specced the Adaptive Cruise Control which places a plastic clear plate in front of the Growler on the grill.
From the side, it remains largely unchanged and the rear benefits from the rear J Blade lights too.
Interior and Tech
The updates to the interior and infotainment system are where the most substantial updates have been implemented. The new diamond stitched quilted leather is similar to a Bentley, the wood with a laser inlay looks fantastic and the rear passengers are now entertained with individual rear screens which can be hidden away when not in use. Along with the rear screens is also the new infotainment software which is a much needed addition to the new XJ to keep up with the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes S Class.
The new software is pretty easy to navigate once you get the hang of it, my concern would be that it was challenging and I see myself as an intermediate IT user and think Jaguar may be overlooking their stereotypical Jaguar XJ customer in this regard. There are plenty of options and menus to keep you entertained that's for sure! The 360 degree view of the vehicle along with front wheel views mean it is much easier to manoeuvre the vehicle and not kerb the wheels (I would still recommend Alloygaitors as this already has saved my bacon on a rear alloy). The front wheel cameras are a brilliant feature of the new software and the junction view and 360 view makes it possible to enjoy this car even more. Alongside the full screen map which can be viewed on the dashboard, internet browsing functionality, InControl which means you can lock or even start the car on your iPhone or Android smartphone, the functionality to control seat massaging and heating options and the back screens can view the navigated journey which the driver is following means these features are inline with expectations. The interior does feel a very special place to be, similar in my opinion to a Rolls Royce Ghost but a little more discreet and dare I say it personal.
If privacy is paramount, the rear blinds which electronically open and close from the rear passenger windows are excellent if the passenger wishes to recline the rear seat to rest on a long journey. These features do remind me of a Daimler which I hope Jaguar will invest to revive the Daimler marque.
The Park Assist is good for those who may struggle to park this type of vehicle, it can be hit and miss and takes a while of getting adjusted to as all the driver has to do is control the transmission when prompted and the accelerator and brake and the steering is automatically adjusted due to the amount of sensors and cameras around the vehicle. Jaguar will have to compete with vehicles such as the Tesla and Infiniti which already has the adaptive cruise control and semi automatic driving features such as keeping the car in a motorway lane and changing lanes when the driver indicates.
Ride Quality and Engine
Ride quality is firmer due to the nimbleness of the steering, making this limousine feel like a small executive saloon. I opted for the 3 litre diesel which has been uprated, the engine is smooth and the torque (700nm) this engine produces is quite astonishing especially on the motorway. The Stop Start feature does become annoying as it does disturb the inner calm inside the cabin. The gearbox is excellent and is well suited to this engine. I'm currently getting an average of around 30mpg but I do live in a City and combine short journeys with longer motorway runs.
In summary, you do get a lot of car for your money when you compare it to the F Type but it is different horses for different courses as the saying goes. This is a much needed refresh for this XJ as it has been on the road since 2009, the interior is where the investment really does shine through but the exterior to Jaguar Enthusiasts in noticeable and gives the car a facelift.
It will be interesting to see what Jaguar do in the future with the next generation XJ after recent comments from Ian Callum saying some within JLR want the next XJ to be 'more practical'. This XJ is reassuringly Jaguar and you are reminded of this by several Jaguar leapers both inside and out, the boot badge is a little disproportionate in size (should be more discreet). However one thing is for sure, the latest XJ is a long way from the original Series 1 XJ back in 1968.
