Jaguar has taken the covers off the 2016 model year XJ. Their flagship four-door looks pretty much the same, but subtle upgrades have been made which hint at the design of the new XE model.
Starting with the front end, we notice a bigger grille with a square shape that sits flat on the nose and has Bentley-like chrome mesh. The headlights are the biggest revision, as they now feature LED technology and four J-shaped accent pieces. The shape of the front air vents has also been simplified. Around the back, changes are not that noticeable, but subtle enhancements have been made in the bumper design.
Most of Jaguar's work went on in the interior department. It's there that we notice a new rReconfigurable 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster that double as a navigation display. The Brits also added the InControl Touch Pro touchscreen infotainment system that's said to offer iOS and Android connectivity, Wi-Fi hotspot and 26-speaker, 1,300 watt Meridian Digital Reference audio system.
The 2016 Jaguar XJ is also fitted with the familiar suite of driver assistance and safety features, including lane-assist, adaptive cruise control with "queue-assist", reverse traffic detection, closing vehicle sensing, a 360 degree surround camera system and semi-automated bay and parallel parking.
On the drivetrain front, the XJ model can be ordered with an uprated 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine that delivers 300PS and 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque. Despite the size of the vehicle, it can emit only 149g/km, which is 6% less than before. The 2016 model year also brings a new electric power-assisted steering.
Alongside the existing XJ Luxury, Premium Luxury, Portfolio and XJR models, Jaguar has also introduced the R-Sport and top-of-the-range Autobiography, mirroring the Range Rover equivalent.
Available only as a long-wheelbase model, the XJ Autobiography comes with chrome front bumper air intakes and 20-inch Maroa wheels. Inside, there's quilted semi-aniline leather seats with contrasting stitching, a leather headliner, oak veneer trim and unique illumination. Rear seat passengers will also enjoy 10.2-inch folding screens.
As for the XJ R-Sport, this mirrors the look of the XJR by adding new side sills, three-piece front splitter, side power vents and a rear spoiler. A sportier steering wheel, black trim and 20" Mataivia complete the package.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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