2004 JAGUAR XJ NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Jaguar XJ?
Jaguar doesn't redesign its flagship sedan often, but for 2004, the all-new XJ is redone from the ground up. It may not look like it, since stylists decided to stick with a tried-and-true formula for shaping the exterior, but the 2004 Jaguar XJ is longer, taller and wider than before, resulting in significant cabin and trunk space gains. Yet, the new Jaguar XJ weighs less than before thanks to its aluminum body construction. New V8 engines displacing 4.2 liters (one is supercharged to make 390 bhp) are found under the shapely bonnet and a six-speed automatic transmission transfers power to the rear wheels. The 2004 Jaguar XJ8 will rush from zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds while the supercharged 2004 Jaguar XJR does it in five seconds flat. Every 2004 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) and an Adaptive Restraint Technology System (ARTS). Stability control, emergency brake assist, adaptive cruise control and Jaguar Voice control are among the notable Jaguar XJ features for 2004. In back, buyers can equip the 2004 Jaguar XJ with dual, independently operated rear entertainment screens.

Advantages of the 2004 Jaguar XJ:

• Classic Jaguar styling
• Simple operation compared to German competitors
• Supple ride quality
• Strong powertrain with pleasing growl

Objections to the 2004 Jaguar XJ:

• Lacks cutting-edge technologies that have debuted in other vehicles
• Even those familiar with the old XJ barely notice the difference
• Some cheap bits used in cabin construction
• Could use more front seat legroom

Editor's Advice:
"You don't have to be a computer programmer to operate this car," says David Scholes, XJ Chief Program Engineer. That's true. To our way of thinking, luxury is about making life simple and enjoyable. Luxury is also about understated elegance and fine accoutrements. Jaguar seems to understand this, keeping the XJ traditional in terms of design and operation while other super-luxury sedan makers push the technological envelope. The fact that you don't need instructions to start the car, find a gear and set off down the road listening to your favorite CD should be argument enough for some well-heeled buyers to select the 2004 Jaguar XJ over other vehicles in this class.