2013 Jaguar XJ Series

MERIDIAN AUDIO SYSTEMS
The 380-watt, 14-speaker Meridian system that comes standard in the lower-range XJs is awfully good, but the premium system in the Supercharged, Supersport and Ultimate models is awesome: 7.1 surround-sound architecture with 825 watts and 20 speakers including two subwoofers.

DIGITAL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
To help bolster the XJ's high-tech appeal, Jaguar engineers abandoned the conventional analog instrument cluster in favor of a high-resolution 12.3-inch LCD screen with a digital speedometer, tachometer and information window with configurable vehicle data.

Thanks in part to the minimal number of center-stack controls, the Jaguar XJ's cabin features a clean, elegant design that separates itself from its rivals with superior materials and remarkable fit and finish. Soft leather trim covers not only the seating surfaces, but the upper dash, door panels and even the headliner on Supersport models. The XJ's navigation system employs a touch screen rather than the button- and wheel-operated setups found on German-built luxury sedans. Recent interface enhancements have tried to address the fact that a touch-screen's functional requirements can be distracting for the driver.

The Jaguar XJ's distinctive design is dominated by a sloping rear roofline that shrouds its substantial mass while creating a stylish 4-door-coupe appearance. The 2013 XJ is available in standard and long-wheelbase versions, with the latter providing an additional five inches of rear legroom. Considering its size, trunk space is rather limited. Also the low roofline makes it tricky for taller folks to get in and out, especially entering the back seat. The almost-full-length panoramic glass moonroof is a strong styling element from both inside and out.

A new base engine joins the XJ range this year, a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 that saves a little fuel compared to the V8s. It delivers a more-than-sufficient 340 horsepower along with decent low-speed torque. The three 5.0-liter V8s continue, making 385 horsepower in naturally aspirated form and 470 or 510 with supercharging. All XJ engines get a slick new 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and the V6 can also be teamed with a new AWD system that favors the rear wheels in its torque split so the car retains its rear-drive feel.

3.0-liter supercharged V6
340 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
332 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/28 mpg (RWD), 16/25 mpg (AWD), 15/25 mpg (AWD, long-wheelbase)

5.0-liter V8
385 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
380 lb-ft of torque @ 3,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/24 mpg

5.0-liter supercharged V8
470 horsepower @ 6,000-6,500 rpm
424 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500-5,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/23 mpg

5.0-liter supercharged V8
510 horsepower @ 6,000-6,500 rpm
461 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500-5,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/23 mpg

The 2013 Jaguar XJ, with the supercharged V6 engine, starts at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $74,075. An additional $3,500 adds all-wheel drive (AWD). The XJL Portfolio is a longer-wheelbase, more richly equipped version with a 5.0 V8 for $82,075. An up-charge of $2,500 gets AWD in this car but you have to go back to the V6, the only way to fit AWD at this time. Nearing the XJ pinnacle, an XJ or XJL Supercharged, with a 470-horsepower V8, starts at $90,475, and the same engine tuned for 510 horsepower motivates the XJ and XJL Supersport, from $113,475. Finally the limited-production XJL Ultimate, with the 510-horsepower engine and every conceivable amenity, costs a lofty $155,875. Check KBB.com's Fair Purchase Price to see what buyers are paying in your area. Projected resale values for the Jaguar XJ still trail those of the Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

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