The Jaguar XJ took a completely new path with the current generation for the first time in its existence. In terms of appearance, that is. The British top sedan was only available with fairly large internal combustion engines. The next series also heralds a new era in technical terms; the XJ will soon have a fully electric drivetrain.
For decades, few cars epitomized the conservative British auto industry as aptly as the Jaguar XJ. Model series after model series, the design of the luxury sedan remained largely faithful to the 1968 original XJ. A large combustion engine also invariably belonged to the stylish predatory cat. Although the last “classic” XJ already had a major modernization thanks to its aluminum body and chassis, in 2010 the current XJ really took the helm. With a completely new design, Jaguar made it clear that it was ready to let go of its longing for old pride. To the chagrin of die-hard enthusiasts, perhaps, but it was a sensible move to be able to continue participating in the top segment on a larger scale.
Nevertheless, there is always room for improvement, especially given that the current XJ (now out of production) could hardly break pots in its last years. For the upcoming XJ, the existing concept will go into the trash and Jaguar will start with a clean slate. The model is radically different on two fronts; the appearance and especially the technique. For the first time in the history of the type, electrical power is used for the drive. In fact, the XJ is fully electric.
Technic
Jaguar approached the i-Pace development team to plunge into the drivetrain. So a group of knowledgeable people. For the time being, Jaguar keeps what can be expected concretely secret. But count on that the XJ with electro power will not be inferior to the old muscle bundle with V6 or V8 under the hood. So 300 hp will be pretty much the minimum power, with more powerful versions that may well exceed 500 hp. Four-wheel drive, with an electric motor on the front and one on the rear axle, is undoubtedly in the barrel. As far as the minimum range is concerned, it is still a bit of coffee grounds. For the XJ to be able to compete with direct competitors, such as the full electric Mercedes-Benz EQS, the driving range must soon be around 600 km on a full battery. Incidentally, it is not excluded that versions with combustion engines besides the electric XJ will be included in the delivery program. Who knows, the more traditional-minded Jaguar driver can also indulge himself.
Appearance
Although the design of the next XJ is completely new, the model fits seamlessly into the range above the XF and shows the necessary style similarities with its smaller brother. Compared to the current XJ, the change is especially apparent at the rear, with the disappearance of the quirky taillights and the dark accents on the C-pillars. The front also looks considerably tighter with a larger grille, which matches the sharply shaped headlights in height. All in all, it keeps the XJ in step with the rest of the Jaguar family. The new XJ may be unveiled by the end of the year, with market launch in 2021.