Following a dramatic 2011 redesign, the Jaguar XJ’s aim was to keep a dignified air while simultaneously shrugging off the stigma of mentalities past. This is what that reinvention looks like. Once you see the 2012 XJ, you’ll probably come to the conclusion that you really want one.
It’s powerful, it’s light, it’s aesthetic, and it’s a Jaguar. Presenting the 2012 XJ – configure one now on CarWoo!…
Jaguar XJ Trims and Features
The 2012 XJ is available in 3 trim levels, with regular and long (XJL, or L for long) wheelbase options for each. The XJL models are just under 5 inches longer overall, and you’ll see most of that in the rear seat area. The XJ’s body is all aluminum, producing a nimble feel even considering XJ’s 4,000- 5,000 pound mass. Part of that is thanks to a trio of 5.0 liter V8 engines, ranging from 385 horsepower with the XJ, to a supercharged 510 HP for the Supersport. Inside, leather and wood options abound, and the available 1200W surround sound audio system can drown out the excess. And of course, the latest safety tech has been implemented for your own peace of mind.
Jaguar XJ Performance
Drivers get 3 variations of a 5.0 liter V8 engine depending on the model chosen, and Jaguar has assured that no option suffers from a lack of power. All XJs are rear-wheel drive and come equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission with wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual driving. The XJ and XJ Portfolio receive a 5.0 liter V8 capable of 385 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque.
The next engine sits in the bellies of the XJ & XJL Supercharged editions and is, yes, a supercharged version of the 5.0 liter V8. The upgrade means you’ll have 470 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft. to play with. Jaguar estimates the Supercharged trims will reach 60 MPH in just under 5 seconds, but word around town is that they’re underselling it a bit.
Finally, the XJ & XJL Supersport have a super version of the supercharged 5.0 liter engine that equates to 510 horsepower and 461 lb.-ft.
After starting the JX, fun is to be had: the JaguarDrive Selector controls transmission settings and toggles either Drive or Sport mode, while JaguarDrive Control takes the experience further: select Dynamic mode and you’ll turn the dash dials red; this means you’re ready for the fast lane. Conversely, Winter mode assists in slippery conditions with its cool blue tone.
Jaguar XJ Fuel Economy
EPA estimates tag the XJ at 16/23/19 (city/highway/combined) MPG, with the XJ Portfolio achieving 1 less MPG across the board. Both the Supercharged and Supersport XJ will reach 15/17/21.
Jaguar XJ Interior Highlights
Reviews use words like ‘exquisite’ and ‘extravagant,’ neither of which is subtle. Choose among 20 different color schemes and 11 shades of leather, while touches of wood and chrome play off each other. At the center of it all lies XJ’s multimedia touchscreen. A 30 GB hard drive controls navigation, audio, video, and Bluetooth functions. And if you don’t want to dirty the screen with greasy fingers, you can use steering wheel controls or Jaguar’s Interactive Voice system.
Heated front and back seats are standard, as is front cooling; you’ll get cooled rear seats on all but the base XJ. XJL trims will get you 5 more inches of rear leg room, and the XJL Supersport features reclining and massaging backseats. Trunk space is on the smaller side at 15.2 cubic feet.
Jaguar XJ Safety
XJ standards include anti-lock brakes, stability/traction control, side curtain airbags for front and rear protection, rain sensing wipers, a blind spot monitor, rearview camera, and front and rear parking sensors. The optional Adaptive Cruise Control features Advanced Emergency Brake Assist, which readies the brakes if XJ detects a collision. Adaptive Cruise Control also monitors traffic ahead of you: when engaged, the XJ keeps a safe gap between whatever lies ahead of you by adjusting braking and throttle controls. The XJ is too important to be bothered with crash testing, but be assured that Jaguar leaves you in good hands.
Jaguar XJ: The Bottom Line
Come for the luxury, stay for the ride. The 2012 XJ is as fun to drive as it is to look at. If you’ve got $74,000 lying around, you’ve got a great luxury car. The Jaguar XJ: upgrade now at Carwoo.
