Thirty four years to the day after the launch of the original XJ6, Jaguar launched the new seventh generation XJ range at the 2002 Paris Show. The original 1968 XJ6, launched at Paris by Sir William Lyons, also provides many of the quintessential styling cues of the new model, which builds on the core strengths and values that have made the XJ series so popular over more than three decades. The powerful yet restrained design of Jaguar’s new flagship saloon marks it out as an elegant, luxurious car in the tradition of previous XJ models.
The design, which was started under the late Geoff Lawson’s direction, displays a lightness of touch which is missing from the smaller S-Type and X-Type models. Despite the much higher roof and waistline, the side view avoids looking heavy. A key device is the rising line running through the lower doors which helps considerably in slimming the bodyside, plus the strong tuck-under of the simple sill section. The upper-body crease line through the door handles is much cleaner than the rather heavy treatment on the S-Type and the continued use of more elegant sash-type upper door frames also helps to give an understated elegance to the design.
The rear view is most satisfying with a return to a 4-light cabin with a beautifully slim C-pillar, nestling into a very subtle haunch and a gently falling rear deck. The rear view is a contemporary interpretation of the original XJ6 with gothic-arch taillamps framing a vee-shaped bootlid shutline. While the proportions are well-resolved, the design lacks any unexpected edge or fresh detailing.Underneath the restrained skin, however, lies some very advanced technology. In common with the new Audi A8, the body is made almost entirely from aluminium, which provides new levels of strength, robustness and dynamic ability. To underline the aluminium construction, the Paris launch car was displayed in an unpainted, polished aluminium finish, together with polished aluminium wheels.
Backing this up is a sophisticated air suspension, Advanced Cruise Control, and an electric parking brake which frees up console space. Introduced by Mike Beasley, Managing Director of Jaguar Cars, as “Technology which helps rather than baffles the driver”, the new XJ series will doubtless find its place as a soothing antidote to the BMW 7-Series. Dimensions for the new XJ: Length 5080mm, Width 1868mm, Height 1448mm, Wheelbase 3034mm.
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