Friday, August 21, 2009

2010 Jaguar XJ


Today's post is on the new 2010 Jaguar XJ. The current XJ model has seen lackluster sales even though the model had been thoroughly redesigned in 2003 then updated for the 2008 model year. The problem was that the new model looked almost identical to the prior model built from 1997 -2003. The new 2010 Jaguar is a bold attempt to redefine the style of Jaguar. The new XJ will launch at one of the most difficult times for luxury manufacturers with sales down 28% versus the same period last year.

Like the current sedan, the new XJ is built of an aluminum and magnesium body that is rived and bonded together. Actually, the XJ is slightly lighter than an Jaguar XFR, which weighs 4400 lbs. Jaguar claims that using aluminum reduces the body weight by 300 lbs.

Power will be provided by three engine choices in the U.S., 385 hp, 5.0 liter V-8 and 470 hp and 510 hp 5.0 liter supercharged versions of the same engine. These engines correspond to the three models Base, Supercharged and Super Sport. Apparently, all models will be offered in standard and long wheelbase. The ZF six speed automatic is the only tranmission offered....with paddle shifters as standard equipment.



The interior is gorgeous but very different that prior Jaguar models. There is plenty of hand stitched leather, wood and chrome trip. The top of the line Super Sport model gets a leather headliner.... and the Supercharged model gets Alcantara as a headliner.

Here is an intersting feature the traditional guages have been replaced by thin film transistor screen. An optional 20-speaker, 1200-watt Bowers & Wilkins stereo and available TV screens in the rears of the front-seat headrests.



SUMMARY:

Jaguar is positioning itself to be a serious competitor to the German luxury carmakers Mercedes, BMW and Audi. If the new XJ is anywhere near as good as the XF, it will win some hearts and minds. Personally, I like the new front styling....it is bold and agressive. Although, the rear styling is very conservative. I cannot wait to drive the car....especially in the XJR model.


9 comments:

  1. Hi Pete thanks for the info on the XJR. It looks like the big Chrysler .. if I'm remember the odd car I see on the roads here .. actually there are two of them (Chryster and the ? Dodge).

    The front style particularly. I must walk round the corner and see what Jags are on show there.

    The other thing is why do car makers use walnut as the wood for their interiors pannelling?

    Have a good weekend .. all the best
    Hilary Melton-Butcher
    Positive Letters Inspirational Stories

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  2. Hi Hilary,

    Since your English, I wanted to see your opinion of the new XJ. I agree that you have to see a car in person versus pictures. Some cars look better in person than in the photos presented.

    Let me know your thoughts once that you have seen the XJ in person!

    The cars that your mentioning are the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. The new XJ does have a long hood and small trunk area with a large grill just like the American products. I viewed the new front as an agressive XF version. The back is to tame for my tastes.

    There are a number of woods that have been used in automobiles. The burled walnut used in the Jaguars is absolutely beautiful. That is the wood that is used in my S-type.

    I am of the opinion that walnut is the most attractive wood to use from a grain and color standpoint. I suspect that is the same reason that the automobile manufacturers use it.

    Thank you for your comment!

    Pete Baca
    The Car Enthusiast Online

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hello Peter,

    They have changed the car a lot. Nice looking car.
    They have had problems with a lot of repairs in the past. Have they changed this with this car?

    Have a great day.

    Dan and Deanna "Marketing Unscrambled"

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  4. Hi Dan & Deanna,

    Yes, is is totally new Jaguar XJ...it is going to take a while to get use to the new styling. I like the front and I don't care for the back styling.

    The Jaguar reliability ratings lately have been very good....see my 7/10 post on Buick & Jaguar Dethrone Lexus on Dependability.

    I had a friend in the 1980's that actually had two Jaguars one to drive and one that would be in the shop. So thankfully those days are gone!

    Thanks for your comment!

    Pete Baca
    The Car Enthusiast Online

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  5. Hello Peter,

    Thank you for the answer to the question. Have a good day.

    Dan and Deanna "Marketing Unscrambled"

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hi Pete,
    I like it!! This will be my next car. By the way, can I get a grant from you? The looks are stunning, and the power rates very high. Jaguar has come a long way. Your pictures were great, and very helpful. I really enjoy your post. Keep up the good work young man.
    Sincerely,
    Dr. Bob Moulas

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  7. Hi Dan & Deanna,

    Your questions can be quite thought provoking....so I appreciate your comments and questions.

    Thank you for your comment!

    Pete Baca
    The Car Enthusiast Online

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  8. Hello Dr. Bob,

    The XJ is a radical departure for Jaguar....sales of the current version were rather dismal. The looks are attractive....with a lot of power. So, this XJ should be a real drivers car.

    Glad that you enjoyed the post! Thank you for your kind comments!

    Pete Baca
    The Car Enthusiast Online

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  9. Hi Wilson,

    Thank you for your kind comments! Please feel free to suggest vehicles!

    Best Regards

    Pete Baca
    The Car Enthusiast Online

    ReplyDelete