LA Auto Show 2009: 2011 Jaguar XJ

“The all-new XJ re-imagines the ultimate sporting luxury sedan. It is beautiful, exhilarating to drive, plus, with a bold, enlightened approach to design, meets the challenges of our fast-changing world.”

-Mike O’Driscoll, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars

Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, the all-new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to automotive luxury. It offers a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and sophisticated engineering.
The all-new XJ is the epitome of fluid, contemporary automotive style. The elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car’s silhouette and lies at the heart of its flowing design. And the all-new XJ doesn’t just look streamlined: it shares a drag coefficient of 0.29 with the XF sedan, making them the most aerodynamic Jaguars ever.

A coupe profile cloaks a cabin with comparable levels of space to sedans with a more conventional style. There is generous accommodation for five occupants, while long wheelbase models provide rear-seat passengers with even greater levels of comfort thanks to an additional 5 inches of rear legroom.
The exquisitely designed interior has a strong sporting character throughout. A panoramic glass roof, standard on all models, dramatically enhances the sense of light and space inside the all-new XJ. And in keeping with its status as the ultimate four-door Jaguar, the XJ employs a new generation of interior technologies, with cutting edge use of display and infotainment systems such as innovative virtual gauges via a 12-inch TFT screen, rather than conventional gauges and the 1,200-watt, 20-speaker, audiophile-level Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

At the heart of the all-new XJ’s construction is a next-generation application of Jaguar’s unique lightweight vehicle architecture. Primarily aluminum – but also utilizing magnesium and composite alloys – it allows Jaguar to produce a significantly lighter and stiffer body. In fact, the structure is the lightest in class. The new structure retains the same aerospace-based riveting and bonding processes refined by Jaguar using advanced materials to deliver improved strength, top refinement and advanced safety performance.

The all-new XJ offers the choice of three powerful, refined engines using the latest powertrain technology such as direct fuel injection and widely-variable camshaft and valve timing to deliver an outstanding combination of performance and economy. Power levels of the three engine variants begin high and end at stupendous. With 385 hp, the XJ’s 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V8 offers fantastic performance, though acceleration improves with the XJ Supercharged model’s 470 hp engine. Topping the range will be the limited-production XJ Supersport, with 510 hp, netting 0-60 mph acceleration in just 4.7 seconds.

The all-new XJ delivers just as memorable a driving experience as the car’s viewing experience. Adaptive Dynamics (smart and flexible shock damping), Active Differential Control on supercharged models (an electronically controlled differential), and quick-ratio steering, the all-new XJ combines responsive, sporting dynamics with the refined, supple ride expected from a luxury Jaguar.

With its unique lightweight aluminum body structure and new, advanced powertrains, the all-new XJ already has a head start in sustainable performance. Jaguar makes the aluminum body with more than 50 percent recycled material. Components made from recycled aluminum use merely five percent of the energy required for new aluminum, equating to a potential savings of three tons of CO2 per vehicle. This, before the all-new XJ ever fires its engine for the first time.

“The all-new XJ is a thoroughly modern interpretation of the quintessential Jaguar. Its visual impact stems from the elongated teardrop shape of the car’s side windows, a powerful stance and its wide track. It is the most emphatic statement yet of Jaguar’s new design direction.”

-Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars

HIGHLIGHTS AT A GLANCE

• The all-new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to automotive luxury. Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, it offers a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance, refined luxury and sophisticated engineering
• Building on the success of the new XK and XF models, the introduction of the all-new XJ is a landmark for the revitalized Jaguar brand. Clearly positioned as the company’s ultimate four-door flagship, it extends the appeal of the legendary XJ line to a new generation of customers
• Jaguars are renowned for their elegant, sporting lines and the all-new XJ, with its fluid, contemporary style, is the boldest interpretation yet of Design Director Ian Callum’s vision for Jaguar in the 21st century
• A panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all-new XJ’s design, allowing a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside
• Standard and long wheelbase models are available from launch. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional 5 inches of legroom. The XJ’s trunk features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cu. ft. storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel)
• The all-new XJ cabin blends elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provides an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully-crafted leather and wood surfaces
• Complementing the all-new cabin is a level of colors, woods and leather choices not seen before in a Jaguar. The four models – XJ, XJL, Supercharged and Supersport – allow customers to tailor the car to their personal tastes. The XJ Supersport is the top iteration of this (custom order only) with a leather headliner, semi-aniline leather seats and woods with laser-generated inlays
• New technologies allow Jaguar’s interior designers to create a welcoming, contemporary living space. A stunning, 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual InstrumentsTM gauge cluster joins an 8-inch touch-screen, the latter displaying navigation, audio controls, vehicle set-up, trip odometers, etc.
• Audio system options include the top-of-the-range 1,200-watt Bowers & Wilkins system, standard on the Supercharged and Supersport models. Other features include hard-drive-based audio and navigation systems, and full connectivity for portable media devices via the powerful Media Hub
• The all-new XJ is beautiful on many levels. Using Jaguar’s aerospace-inspired aluminum body technique, the bodyshell is more than 300 lbs. lighter than a comparable steel shell, improving performance, handling, and economy, while giving higher strength, refinement and safety
• Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), rear air suspension, Active Differential Control and quick-ratio power steering deliver the blend of responsive, dynamic handling and refined, supple ride expected from a Jaguar
• The most advanced powertrains ever in a Jaguar combine high performance with efficient technologies like direct fuel injection. In the U.S. market, a choice of three engines are based on model, all coupled to a shift-by-wire, six-speed automatic transmission controlled by the JaguarDrive Selector™ or steering wheel-mounted paddles:
o XJ and XJL models: 5.0-liter 385 hp naturally aspirated direct-injection V8; 0-60 mph in 5.4 secs (0-100 kph in 5.7 secs)
o XJ Supercharged and XJL Supercharged models: 5.0-liter 470 hp supercharged direct-injection V8; 0-60 mph in 4.9 secs (0-100 kph in 5.2 secs)
o XJ Supersport and XJL Supersport models: 5.0-liter 510 hp supercharged direct-injection V8; 0-60 mph in 4.7 secs (0-100 kph in 4.9 secs)
• New standards of sustainability in the luxury segment take form by using a lightweight aluminum body with more than 50 percent recycled material. Components made from recycled aluminum use merely five percent of the energy required for new aluminum, equating to a potential savings of three tons of CO2 per vehicle. This, before the all-new XJ ever fires its engine for the first time
• The Jaguar brand has been acknowledged with a joint first ranking in a vehicle dependability study in 2009. Jaguar’s obsessive attention to quality and service has also resulted in #1 rankings in sales satisfaction and customer service
• The all-new XJ offers extremely attractive cost of ownership with impressive fuel economy across the range, high predicted residual values and 15,000-mile service intervals
• In the U.S., the all-new XJ can be ordered now. Delivery of first customer cars will begin in the spring of 2010

DESIGN CONCEPT

“Any good car design – indeed the design of anything of value – should tell a story. The new XJ does that, with a clear visual hierarchy. We took inspiration from classic Jaguars like the Mk2 and original XJ and created a Jaguar for the 21st century with pure, sensual forms.”

-Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars

The all-new XJ’s distinctive lines mark the next bold evolution of Jaguar’s new design language. The striking elongated teardrop shape of the side window graphic establishes the car’s stretched profile, and is balanced by a dramatic lower swage line emanating from the front wheels that reinforces the vehicle’s forward stance. The XJ’s sleek lines are complemented by a taut waistline, which further accentuates the impression of length and elegance, and creates a natural tension as it fades from the front arch into the middle section of the car before reappearing as a strong haunch towards the rear. All this visual length exists in the eyes only: The new XJ is barely one inch longer overall than the outgoing model.

Bold, confident face
The face of the all-new XJ is confident, with a wide front track and short front overhang contributing to the harmonious proportions. The nose of the car follows Jaguar’s new design language, with a bold and assertive treatment. The powerful mesh grille and slim xenon headlights creating a strong road presence.
The strong, muscular lower half of the car is contrasted with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline, which takes inspiration from the original 1968 XJ sedan. The wrap-around rear screen reduces the visual weight of the pillars, and gives the impression of an exotic “floating” roof.

The new XJ doesn’t just look sleek and streamlined; it is among the most aerodynamic Jaguars ever. The car super-low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29 helps to achieve better fuel economy on the highway.

A key factor in achieving this highly efficient aerodynamic performance was the extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to refine the shape long before the car ever saw a wind tunnel. Taking the process pioneered on the XF program to a new level of sophistication, more than 400 detailed CFD studies were performed during the initial design phase.

Every surface of the new XJ – from the outer skin to the smooth, composite undertray to the fine grille meshes of the cooling system – was refined using the CFD process. Key areas included the trunk profile, which was engineered to control airflow without the need for a spoiler. As well as generating reduced drag and low wind noise, the overall shape carefully balances aero loading over the front and rear axles to help stabilize handling balance and greater high-speed stability.

Dramatic LED lights
The XJ’s rear shows a pure, sculpted shape, with a conscious absence of ornamentation. The rear retains its pure form. A single leaping Jaguar makes a strong, confident statement. The LED light clusters wrap stylishly over the rear fenders, and feature three dramatic red vertical strips that from the tail- and brake lights.

Architectural interior design
The overriding impression from the interior is a sense of personal space. The clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle dominates. At the sides, bold architectural wood sweeps forward from the rear doors through the front doors, meeting at the front of the car just above the dash, emphasizing the XJ’s powerful, dynamic character. This linear, modern use of wood helps to create a truly welcoming environment.

From the outset, the panoramic glass roof has been an integral part of the design concept. It enables a lower, more streamlined roof, and also dramatically enhances the feeling of light and space within the car. The roof’s opening mechanism slides the glass upwards and outwards, so that headroom is never compromised. A dark tint and reflective coating help prevent the interior from overheating under strong sunlight, while twin electric blinds provide another level of privacy and sun screening.

THE TECHNOLOGY

“The all-new XJ’s advanced new displays use a range of technologies to create the most intuitive and rewarding experience. Not only does everything look amazing, it allows you to tailor displays to match different circumstances, giving precisely the information you need and no more.”

-Mick Mohan, Director, Jaguar Programmes

In keeping with its position as the ultimate Jaguar sedan, the all-new XJ integrates the use of advanced new technologies, driver displays and infotainment systems.

There is no physical instrument cluster display in the all-new XJ. Instead, a 12.3-inch high-definition screen, which uses sophisticated and beautifully detailed virtual gauges to provide all the functions otherwise performed by traditional dials. Jaguar’s designers have also taken advantage of the freedom provided by the virtual gauges to help prioritize the most useful information as well as creating a real sense of theater for the driver.

As the all-new XJ starts, three virtual dials build before your eyes. The center dial houses a speedometer, flanked on either side by a rev counter, and an information window with fuel and temperature gauges.
To maximize clarity, the display employs a spotlight effect to highlight the areas showing the most important information, such as the current speed or engine revs. When required – for example, if fuel is running low, or the driver is selecting a radio station – the rev counter fades away to be temporarily replaced by the required warning message or menu.

This prioritization elevates a level when the driver selects the XJ’s Dynamic mode. In this case, the dials change to a sporting red hue and feature a bold gear position indicator which glows red as the engine speed rises towards redline.

Touch-screen display
A large 8-inch touch-screen display in the center console complements the Virtual Instrument cluster, providing an intuitive way to manage many of the XJ’s functions, including climate control, audio communications and navigation.

The touch-screen interface allows the number of conventional switches to be reduced to a minimum, with just a small number of major controls positioned below. The driver can also use Jaguar’s latest-generation Interactive VoiceTM control system, which uses the cluster display to present a list of prompts for key words to control a particular function. This new “say what you see” approach quickly allows the driver to gain confidence and familiarity using systems such as a mobile phone via Bluetooth®, navigation or audio.

Flexible multimedia capabilities including Hard Disc Drive (HDD)
The impressive flexibility provided by the new display and control systems is matched by the all-new XJ’s multimedia capabilities, accessed through the Media Hub. In the U.S. market, the all-new XJ comes standard with a CD/DVD player, HD radio, and a SIRIUSTM satellite radio receiver. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth® v2.0 audio streaming and an auxiliary input, which all allow the user to connect with iPods®, iPhonesTM and Blackberries®, for example.
The audio unit utilizes the 30GB hard-disc-drive (HDD) system, so that music from CDs can be loaded onto the HDD for later listening. Gracenotes is included to allow artist and track information to be recognized.

ADVANCED BODY ENGINEERING

The XJ’s advanced lightweight body architecture is hugely impressive in its own right, yet the technologies used in development are equally pioneering. During development of the XF, the Virtual Process (VP) and Virtual Series (VS) processes used massive computing power and sophisticated modelling programs to create and refine components and systems in the virtual world, long before physical parts are produced.
Together, VP and VS significantly improve quality and manufacturing efficiency, benefitting craftsmanship, durability and reliability.

For the all-new XJ, this ground-breaking approach has been enhanced by the use of a state-of-the-art Jaguar Virtual Reality Centre. The four-walled virtual reality “cave” allows engineers to visualize CAD models of vehicles and components as full-size 3D images, using eight powerful, high-definition projectors to create photo-quality images. Wearing 3D glasses, engineers gain unprecedented access to their designs, viewing the virtual car from any angle, inside and out.

This technology has proven particularly effective at identifying potential conflicts with piping or wiring within the vehicle, allowing problems to be resolved very early in the design process. The goal of achieving class-leading quality was an obsession throughout the development process of the all-new XJ, with almost 40,000 specific quality-related assessments conducted at an early stage of the vehicle’s development. Exceeding customers’ expectations of quality was a particular focus, with all components that customers see, touch or smell exhaustively analyzed to ensure that they met or exceeded the challenging targets appropriate for a Jaguar.

The entire body of the all-new XJ is made from a combination of pressed, cast and extruded aluminum alloy components, including the monocoque chassis structure and external body panels. The joints in the shell are riveted and bonded together using techniques originally developed in the aerospace industry and adapted for automotive use by Jaguar.

A technological advance in the new XJ is the use of new materials such as aluminum “Fusion” alloys and optimized body design. Together these deliver improved strength, enhanced refinement and top safety performance.

“Jaguar is a world leader in lightweight aluminum body structures, and the all-new XJ builds on this experience by incorporating the latest materials and optimization technologies. The result is a body which sets new standards for lightness and strength.”

-Mark White, Body Engineering Director

Key features of the all-new XJ’s body architecture include:

? Optimized structure – The bodyshell has been designed to minimize the number of separate parts, thereby reducing the amount of joints and eliminating complex assemblies and as a result, improving structural integrity. Production processes have also been simplified. Compared to the outgoing XJ, the new model uses 12 percent fewer rivets, 25 percent less adhesive, and consumes less energy in manufacture.
? Advanced aluminum alloys – New, high-strength aluminum alloys have been applied in key locations throughout the structure, improving stiffness and durability while reducing the amount of material used. For example, a new Fusion alloy (essentially, a high-strength aluminum sandwich) enables panel thickness to be reduced by 10 percent. This is applied on the fenders, roof panels and trunk lid.
? Aluminum castings – Suspension and driveline mounting points use stronger materials which allow the wall thicknesses to be reduced by 20 percent.
? Magnesium components – Use of ultra-lightweight magnesium castings has been extended. The front-end carrier (which supports parts like the headlamps and grille) is also now a one-piece magnesium casting, reducing weight and complexity.
? Elegant engineering – To preserve the purity and style of the striking design that Ian Callum and his team demanded for the all-new XJ, elegant engineering solutions were employed to avoid compromise to the appearance. For example, the impressive side graphic created by the open glasshouse required a new structural approach for the roof and body sides. A hydroformed aluminum tube section runs from the base of the A-pillar to the D-pillar, imparting tremendous strength and rigidity to the body shell.

THE LUXURY

“The new XJ’s interior is for people who value beautiful design. The cabin’s combination of elegant surfaces, stunning materials, a sweeping instrument panel and bold architectural lines create a sense of handcrafted intimacy. Think minimalist hotel mixed with a hint of indulgence and sparkle. The epitome of modern luxury.”

-Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars

The all-new XJ makes every journey a special occasion. From the Jaguar “handshake” with the rising JaguarDrive Selector™ as you start the vehicle, to the comfort and support of the sculpted seats, the style and quality of the interior furnishings and the outstanding audio system, every detail has been painstakingly developed to create a truly unique experience.

The all-new XJ enjoys more sumptuous leather than any previous Jaguar. It adorns all of the main surfaces, including the seats, the instrument panel, door tops, center console and armrests. The exclusive Supersport model even has a leather headliner.

The seams on the soft-grain leather on the seats feature beautiful twin-needle stitching. Visually seductive, this complex stitching delivers a feeling of true opulence and style, but in a very modern way.
The driver grips a beautifully-trimmed three-spoke steering wheel, and the broad center console helps to provide an intimate, cockpit-like feel.
The all-new XJ’s elegant switchgear and phosphor blue lighting heighten the contemporary mood. Doors feature a beautiful pannier-style storage compartment inspired by high-quality, hand-stitched designer briefcases. Each pannier also features twin-needle stitched leather for a tailored look and feel, complemented by a single chrome highlight running along the edge to emphasize the rich character of both materials.

Reflecting the all-new XJ’s approach to luxurious personal space, the fresh range of more daring color and trim selections offer increased interior personalization. Eight different mirror-matched woods are available depending on model, all chosen to create a crisp, contemporary appearance, while carbon fiber and piano black finishes are also available for a more technical ambience.

A simple and pure interior design emphasizes fine detail. The four spherical air vents contrast a high-gloss piano black finish with chromed metal components. This stylish combination of piano black and chrome is repeated on the center console. It is deliberately subtle, with the number of switches kept to a minimum.

Center stage in the dashboard is an analog clock, its individual chrome chaplets, spun metal face and iridescent blue background inspired by luxury wristwatches. Many of these design details are picked out by the phosphor blue interior lighting, helping create a relaxed, harmonious atmosphere.

Luxury in all climates
Complete luxury regardless of weather is provided by climate control that offers the latest in high-comfort seating systems. The standard climate control in the new XJ is two-zone, with independent temperature settings for the driver and front passenger. Long-wheelbase and higher-specification models have a four-zone system, with separate controls and ventilation outlets for the left and right rear seat passengers.

All XJs come with heated and cooled front seats and heated rear seats. Massage front seats and cooled rear seats are also standard or available, depending on model.

Outstanding audio performance
The all-new XJ’s cabin provides a treat for the ears, as well as the eyes. In addition to the sporting exhaust note, there is a choice of high-performance audio options. In the U.S. market, the vehicle offers as standard equipment CD/DVD functions, SIRIUSTM satellite radio (subscription sold separately), an HD Radio receiver, and connectivity for portable music devices.

The top audio experience is provided by a 1,200-watt Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, standard on supercharged models and optional on the naturally aspirated XJ and XJL. Bowers & Wilkins is an award-winning British manufacturer of audio systems. The 1,200-watt audio system in the all-new XJ combines 20 Bowers & Wilkins speakers powered through 15 channels and state-of-the-art sound processing technology. The result is sound quality tailored to the interior of the XJ.
Among the innovations employed to achieve this level of aural performance is the first automotive application of the sophisticated Audyssey MultEQ XT® audio tuning system, which digitally corrects imperfections to deliver accurate and distortion-free sound for all seating positions. In addition, the all-new XJ marks the first automotive application of Dolby® Pro Logic IIx technology, and is also the first vehicle to also offer the choice of the DTSTM Neo:6 decoder, to deliver the latest 7.1 surround sound audio.
When the rear-seat entertainment package is specified, passengers have access to dual 8-inch LCD screens in the rear of the front headrests and wireless digital headphones. A specially designed portable touch-screen controller allows passengers to select their preferred source of entertainment, with the two rear screens and all headphones controlled independently.

THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

“The all-new XJ has been engineered to engage the driver with exhilarating performance and surprising agility, but without sacrificing comfort or refinement. It’s as good as it gets.”

-Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity

With a stiff, lightweight body structure, a new generation of ultra-efficient, high-performance powertrains and advanced chassis technologies, the all-new XJ is an outstanding premium sports sedan that delivers an exhilarating driving experience.

The primary objective while developing the all-new XJ was to provide a combination of focused and responsive sporting dynamics, allied to the suppleness and refinement of a luxury vehicle. The all-new XJ is very much a driver’s car, surprisingly agile for its size, but without compromise to comfort.
It is blissfully quiet. A full secondary bulkhead, laminated windshield and door glass, streamlined aerodynamics and an optimized body structure reduce noise to a minimum. When driven enthusiastically, however, carefully tuned air intake systems deliver an inspiring engine soundtrack.

Giving even greater level of personal control, the XJ driver can tailor the driving experience. JaguarDrive ControlTM offers three different transmission modes: Normal, for a comfortable, leisurely drive; Dynamic; for a more sporting and responsive character; and Winter, for greater capability in low-grip conditions. Each mode changes the characteristics of engine mapping, transmission shifts, Adaptive Dynamics and Active Differential Control systems and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) interventions.

In Dynamic mode, gearshift points are extended, the suspension stiffens and even the presentation and color of the main instrument dial changes. And in Winter mode, the transmission selects second gear to help provide greater traction from a standstill.

Efficient, refined powertrains
The all-new XJ offers the choice of three powerful and refined engines. With 385 hp, the XJ’s 5.0-liter normally-aspirated V8 offers fantastic performance, though acceleration improves with the XJ Supercharged model’s 470 hp engine. Topping the range will be the limited-production XJ Supersport, with a blistering 510 hp, netting 0-60 mph acceleration in just 4.7 seconds.

The new 5.0-liter AJ-V8 Gen III engines were introduced at the beginning of 2009. They were developed from the outset with direct fuel injection, which provides increased power and torque while also improving efficiency. Particular emphasis was also placed on achieving a sporting character, combining responsive low-end torque with spirited top-end performance.

The new V8 has a compact and lightweight all-aluminum design, with low levels of internal friction. It features an industry-first, centrally-mounted, multi-hole, spray-guided fuel injection system, which delivers fuel at a pressure of up to 2,175 psi (150bar) directly to the center of the combustion chamber, maximizing air-fuel mixing and improving combustion control.

Efficiency is further enhanced by an innovative new variable camshaft timing system (VCT), which is activated by the positive and negative torques generated by opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves, rather than via oil pressure. This has allowed the engine oil pump to be reduced in size, saving energy and reducing fuel consumption.

The 510 hp and 470 hp supercharged engines are fitted with a sixth-generation, twin-vortex system (TVS) supercharger. A compact Roots-type unit, it has a high-helix rotor design that increases supercharger thermodynamic efficiency by 16 percent and improves noise quality to the point where the unit is now virtually inaudible from the cabin.

The naturally-aspirated V8 is equipped with a new variable intake manifold (VIM) and camshaft profile switching (CPS) on the intake camshaft, which work together to optimize power and torque throughout the rev range.

The results are truly impressive. Compared to the supercharged and naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8s in the previous XJ, power is increased by 28 percent on both the 510 hp supercharged and 385 hp naturally aspirated versions. The 470 hp supercharged engine is 18 percent more powerful than the outgoing
4.2-liter supercharged engine.

Despite the significant performance increase, CO2 emissions meet stringent EU5 and US ULEV2 emissions regulations.

Advanced six-speed transmission
All engines transmit power through an enhanced version of Jaguar’s acclaimed electronically controlled, six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission has a fully-adaptive shift system which delivers extremely smooth gear changes and works to balance performance and economy. Shift patterns are continually adapted to suit the current driving style, with shift points varying according to whether the driver is using a more sporting or relaxed approach.

The high levels of torque produced by the new engines make it possible for the torque converter lock-up feature to be used even at low speeds, without slip, further improving CO2 emissions. All XJ models are fitted with the Jaguar Sequential Shift™ system for manual gear selection, with shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel. The system has been tuned for quicker responses, resulting in a smoother, more powerful shift feel and an almost instantaneous shift.

The lifecycle of a vehicle
The all-new XJ takes a new approach to sustainable motoring, with its lightweight aluminum body structure and advanced powertrains. It backs this up by quality engineering and testing and low cost of ownership due to 15,000 mile service intervals.

Jaguar has developed its approach to sustainability by focusing on the lifecycle of a vehicle; a more stringent approach to sustainability than stand-alone measures like fuel consumption or CO2 emissions.
A lifecycle approach means looking at the vehicle from start to finish: minimizing the amount of materials used, incorporating recycled material and low-energy manufacturing processes and designing the vehicle to be recycled at the end of its life.

The XJ’s aluminum architecture is a significant contributor to this sustainability. It uses around 50 percent recycled materials in the body. This alone creates a saving of up to three tons of CO2 per vehicle, compared to a bodyshell made from new aluminum. This is, naturally, before the vehicle ever starts its engine for the firs time.

“The outstanding responsiveness and efficiency of the latest Jaguar V8 engines make them ideally suited to the all-new XJ. When combined with the vehicle’s lightweight structure, the result is intoxicating performance and impressive fuel efficient technology.”

-Malcolm Sandford, Engine Group Chief Engineer

SUSPENSION

The superb torsional rigidity of the aluminum body structure provides the perfect platform for its suspension system. The new XJ’s suspension is true to a modern Jaguar’s athletic abilities. The structure provides a focused and responsive sporting character allied to the suppleness and refinement essential for a luxury sports sedan.

The front suspension features unequal length wishbones with weight-saving forged aluminum components and uses coil springs. The front subframe is directly mounted to the body for enhanced steering response and handling precision. The system is designed to deliver a dominant sense of control, providing excellent straight-line stability and strong anti-dive characteristics under heavy braking, with minimum road noise and vibration. At the rear, the subframe-mounted, multi-link rear suspension features lightweight cast aluminum links and air springs.

Air suspension provides perfectly level ride height regardless of load and a high level of refinement and rolling comfort without compromising the sporting driving characteristics.

To help achieve that highly desirable balance between impeccable high-speed handling and a cosseting ride, the XJ also uses the advanced new Adaptive Dynamics active damping system. Introduced at the beginning of 2009 on the new XK and XFR models, this system automatically tailors damper settings to suit both road conditions and the way the car is being driven. It provides a range of damping between a firmer sports setting and a softer setting for ride comfort, delivering a balance of body control and ride.

The all-new XJ uses an enhanced variable ratio power-assisted steering system, tuned to deliver reduced parking effort at low speeds with greater precision and feedback at higher speeds, including the positive on-center feel that has become a Jaguar dynamic trademark.

The all-new XJ benefits from the same powerful braking system that was developed for the new XK sports car. Naturally aspirated, V8-powered XJs are fitted with 355mm front discs and 326mm discs at the rear. The powerful 470 hp and 510 hp Supercharged models feature 380mm front discs gripped by lightweight aluminum twin-piston floating calipers, with 376mm rear discs. All discs across the range are ventilated.

Jaguar’s Electric Parking Brake, which automatically engages when the engine is turned off and is released when Drive is selected, has the option of manual operation if required, using a stylish chrome fingertip control in the center console.

XJ models will be fitted with 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels in six stunning designs, some with the additional option of a polished finish. For the first time on a Jaguar sedan, wider rear wheels with lower profile tires are fitted (compared to the front wheels and tires), optimizing grip and enhancing the vehicle’s sporting stance.

SAFETY SYSTEMS & DRIVER AIDS

To complement its powerful engines and advanced driving dynamics, the all-new XJ provides a comprehensive set of active safety aids including Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Understeer Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Traction Control (ETC), Engine Drag Torque Control and, for vehicles fitted with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Electronic Emergency Brake Assist.

A three-stage DSC Stability Control system combines the normal on-off switchable DSC function, which is designed to react when it detects slip. Trac DSC, which allows more slip before intervening, gives a more sporting driving experience. Pressing and holding the DSC button for 10 seconds fully disables electronic traction and stability control intervention, allowing an experienced driver to exploit fully the capability of the new XJ chassis as they choose, where conditions allow.

New XJs with supercharged engines are fitted with the advanced new Active Differential Control (ADC) system. This computer-controlled differential distributes torque to the rear wheels in a much more sophisticated way than a conventional mechanical differential, improving traction, dynamic stability and providing more sporting handling. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the differential varies the degree of differential locking – and therefore the proportion of torque to each driven rear wheel – depending on surface conditions and power applied. Its control strategies are designed to optimize traction at each wheel, to improve acceleration on low-grip surfaces and enhance cornering ability, but without adverse effect on either refinement or stability.

Drivers of the all-new XJ also benefit from a number of additional active safety features that provide enhanced confidence and security when on the road.

Xenon headlamps are available with an intelligent system that switches them on and off according to the presence of oncoming traffic and the prevailing lighting conditions. This feature is combined with adaptive lighting, which swivels the headlamps to follow the road when cornering, and also provides additional LED illumination when manoeuvring at low speeds.
Other technologies include Adaptive Cruise Control, which monitors the gap to traffic ahead and adjusts the cruise control system and speed accordingly. A standard radar-based blind-spot monitoring system alerts the XJ driver to vehicles in close proximity on either side. Tire Pressure Monitoring alerts the driver to low inflation or a puncture.

PASSIVE SAFETY FEATURES

Inside the new XJ, an optional active seat belt system pre-tensions the belts when it detects heavy braking or hard cornering. This technology complements conventional pyrotechnic pre-tensioners by progressively tightening the seat belts in proportion to the severity of the maneuver, enhancing the feeling of security. When the XJ returns to a more relaxed driving condition, the tension in the belt is released.
The airbag system is designed to work in conjunction with the seat occupant sensors to help ensure the airbags deploy only as required and with the appropriate force. Two-stage driver and front passenger airbags, front side and curtain airbags are complemented by the added protection for front seat occupants of an anti-whiplash system in the seat structure.

From the sleek silhouette to its inviting, contemporary interior and the athleticism the XJ demonstrates on any road, the latest Jaguar luxury sedan shows the best of the company’s engineering, design and manufacturing capabilities. The very first XJ in 1968 was a twentieth-century breakthrough. The 2011 XJ is a new masterpiece for a new century.