Jaguar XJ updated

Jaguar has given its big XJ sedan a tickle for the 2016 model year, boosting power from the cleaner, Euro 6-compliant diesel V6, adding equipment and rejigging the range hierarchy.

The revised XJ has been a while coming, since we first reported it nearly 12 months ago. Other than the addition of the range-topping XJ Autobiography (in long-wheelbase form only), prices are largely unchanged, and the renamed XJ Supersport is now known as the XJ R-Sport.

When this generation of XJ, the X351, was launched in Australia back in July 2010, Jaguar priced the long-wheelbase variants higher than short-wheelbase models, all else being equal. But these days the asking price is the same for both body styles.

"We don't charge a premium for the longer wheelbase," said Brett Lewis-Driver, Group Product Manager for Jaguar Land Rover in Australia. "It just enables people to make a choice of what they really want – and not be confused by the price points. It's actually quite a simple range to work through, in terms of pricing."

For the updated XJ's local launch yesterday, the Jaguar exec explained the changes in detail, starting with InControl Touch Pro, Jaguar's infotainment system offering voice control, improved Bluetooth connectivity, a faster response time for the built-in satellite navigation system and a different Meridian Digital audio system depending on the trim level. In due course, Jaguar plans to introduce a more connected version of its infotainment system, to be named InControl Connect.

A configurable 12.3-inch TFT instrument display offers drivers different themes, like Audi's Virtual Cockpit system.

Mechanically, the 3.0-litre diesel V6 is now Euro 6-compliant and produces 220kW and 700Nm – a significant hike from the 202kW and 600Nm of the Euro 4 engine. CO2 emissions have fallen from 159 to 149g/km. There's also an electric power-assisted steering system across the board, and the All-Surface Progress Control system pioneered in the small XE model is now standard.

Other active safety assistance systems for the updated XJ include optional ($2140) adaptive cruise control with queue assist to halt the car altogether in traffic. Conventional cruise control is fitted as standard. Closing Vehicle Sensing is another driver-assist system new to the XJ, employing longer-range radar to enhance blind-spot monitoring in the event of a car approaching rapidly from behind while the Jaguar is changing lanes.

Other new features include park assistance (parallel and perpendicular automated parking) and Reverse Traffic Detection. The Park Assist system is standard for the XJ Autobiography and part of a $2700 option pack for other variants. This pack also includes 360° Park Distance Control and Surround Camera system.

The identifying features of the MY16 XJ are the larger, upright grille, larger air intakes in the front bumper/airdam, restyled tail lights and full LED headlights incorporating twin 'J-Blade' daytime running lights. New to the line-up, the XJ Autobiography features chrome air intakes in the front bumper and 20-inch Mataiva wheels. Replacing the Supersport model, the XJ R-Sport boasts a three-piece front splitter, side skirts, side vents in the quarter panels and a rear spoiler. The grille is finished in gloss black, which is also applied to the rear valance. Jaguar has specified 20-inch 'Venom alloys for this model.

Inside, the upholstery for the previous Portfolio trim level is now adopted for the entry-level Premium Luxury variants. The new Portfolio variant migrates to quilted soft-grain leather with diamond stitching, embossed headrests and figured ebony woodgrain veneer. For the Autobiography grade, the XJ comes with quilted semi-aniline leather with contrast stitching, a leather headlining, rich oak inlay veneer and illuminated stainless steel tread plates with stainless steel also for air vents and the boot finisher.

Additional standard equipment for the XJ Autobiography (over the Portfolio grade) comprises Adaptive LED headlights with auto high beam assist, twin oval chrome exhaust tips, metallic pedals, digital TV, rear business tables and the Park Assist pack.

Prices for the new XJ range are as follows:
3.0L petrol and diesel Premium Luxury – $201,900
3.0L petrol Portfolio LWB – $228,865
3.0L R-Sport SWB – $229,875
5.0L XJR SWB – $300,275
5.0L Autobiography LWB – $300,275