Cat scan
We admire the Body on the new Jaguar XJ
Words by Stephen Worthy
THERE WERE AUDIBLE gasps of amazement from guests at the Saatchi Gallery when the new Jaguar XJ was seen in the flesh for the first time recently. And not because Elle Macpherson was draped over Jag’s all-new executive saloon, wearing next to nothing. The radical curves that prompted the sharp intakes of breath belonged to the car rather than the supermodel nicknamed ‘The Body’.
The exact dimensions are still under wraps, but it’s certainly longer than the outgoing model. And it’s been dropped lower on its haunches too, with a lower roof line as well, immediately giving it a sportier profile. Jaguar also joins in the vogue for panoramic glass roofs while the rear C-pillars are made of a shiny acrylic polycarbonate. This makes the XJ appear wider than it really is, while accentuating the bright chrome around the window line. That it has hints of Citroën’s ill-received C6 has caused consternation, but it also has more than a flavour of the Maserati Quattroporte from the rear view. This, of course, is a very good thing.
Prices have only been announced for the standard 3.0-litre V6 diesel in entry-level Luxury trim but that will set you back £52,500. Expect that to rise to dizzying levels as you move up the range, topping out at the 5.0-litre supercharged V8 in bells-and-whistle Portfolio trim. Those who are feeling really flush can opt for options like a monstrous 1,200W Bowers & Wilkins stereo and cinema system.
The XJ goes on sale in early 2010 and customer orders have already started. We suspect a certain Australian supermodel may be one of them.
