Like I mentioned before, the changes to the 2016 Jaguar XJ are not merely cosmetic. The 3.0 litre V6 diesel engine now comes with a bump in power. (There are no changes to the petrol model). Not only that, there is more torque too. This engine now develops 296 bhp and 700 Nm of torque. Jaguar claims a 0 to 100 kph timing of 6.2 seconds which are impressive figures for this mammoth which weighs over two tonnes. The difference is noticeable right from the moment you start driving. The XJ just leaps (pun intended) forward at the slightest throttle input. The eight speed ZF automatic gearbox has smooth shifts with only the kick downs being slightly jerky, more so at lower speeds. Sports mode adds more fun and along with the Dynamic setting, the motor revs all the way to the red line. This is a really fast car. The engine does tend to get louder at higher rpms. At city and cruising speeds, all you can hear is a little hum. It’s a nice sounding engine though.
The facelift also brings the electric power steering to the Jaguar XJ. Surprisingly it does not feel light as you would expect from an an electric unit. It weighs up nicely and makes the XJ super fun to drive. I have said it before and I will say it again. The XJ does hide it size well. It’s fun to throw into corners. Yes there is body rolls but it does brilliantly for its size. The air suspension along with the 18 inch alloys and high profile tyres have improved ride quality and it is much better than before.
The Jaguar XJ has always has a certain vintage charm. The British motoring heritage just reflects in everything that you touch and feel in this automobile. The updates in this facelift have breathed a fresh lease of life into the car and it can still hold ground to the newer models from the competition. The XJ appeals more to the heart than the head and strikes an emotional chord. Additionally, if you are the types who likes driving his luxury limo more often, the XJ ticks the right boxes for sure. Refreshed looks along with more equipment and power makes the Jaguar XJ with its 1.12 crore (Ex showroom Mumbai – Portfolio Diesel) rupee price tag quite a bargain. And oh yes, it does have the exclusivity factor as well.
Location courtesy: Sunteck Signature Island, BKC, Mumbai
2016 Jaguar XJ photo gallery:
