Jaguar XJ8 3.5 (A) 2007

The Review

The Jaguar XJ (V8 version) is still the gentlemen's limousine compared to sportier BMW 7 series and traditional Merz S class. Where the XJ loses in performance to 740/745, it distinguishes itself as a car (fitting) for the upper class, locally and notably English refined. I know personal accounts of Beemer drivers who perceive Jags as ultimate/ upgrade desires from their ladish drive (confessions to me from 5 series & 6 coupe owners, both aspiring pros and established retirees). As for S class popularity over XJ being elite ride of choice, Jag's 4.2L gets ahead of S350's V6 power or overweight lag of non AMG S-ess laden in big cc categories(like huge capacity American makes). However, the best of V8 (naturally aspirated) could do better with tune up of +40bhp more, before classic supercharger/twin turbo overrides in..in order to make the cut into 5 secs range of supersaloons. A pity its manufacturer focussed only on making the marque look good and make its riders therein feel good but at the expense of statistical prowess. Nevertheless, it is fitting to sing it a British swan song "fare thee well" in the final year for this generation of unique icon.