Jaguar XJ through the Years: The Best Model to Buy in Every Generation
The Jaguar XJ is a luxury sedan which has been in the automotive industry since 1968. For many years, it was Jaguar top-selling model and has huge contribution in brand’s identity. It has always stood out for its clean design, smooth ride and solid power. Each generation of this model comes with its own updates and changes but the main focus always stayed the same: luxury and performance. If you are thinking about buying a Jaguar XJ then it is important for you to know which years are worth your time and money. Here in this guide, we will walk you through the Jaguar XJ generation and identifies the best Jaguar engine model to buy from each generation.
1. Series I (1968–1973)
Best Model: 1972 Jaguar XJ6 4.2
It is one of the first Jaguar XJ, a huge step towards the brand-building. It was a mixture of comfort and smooth ride. It had independent rear suspension that made it drive better than most cars. It was ahead of its time.
The 1972 Jaguar XJ6 with 4.2L was one of the most-selling model from the Series I lineup. Its 4.2L inline-six engine was stronger and more reliable than the smaller 2.8L. Till 1972, Jaguar had worked out on most of its early problems.
2. Series II (1973–1979)
Best Model: 1978 Jaguar XJ6L
After Series I, Jaguar released Series II with small styling updates and a better interior layout. It retained the same engines but added a longer wheelbase option.
The 1978 XJ6L long wheelbase is the most desirable for buyers looking at this era. This version came with improved interior materials, better reliability, and more rear-seat space which enhance the comfort level. The mechanicals were refined by this point and the build quality improved over earlier Series II models. It is still easy to maintain with proper parts support.
3. Series III (1979–1992)
Best Model: 1986 Jaguar XJ6
This generation got a new look with help of Pininfarina. The body was updated but still looked like a Jaguar. Carburetors were replaced with fuel injection, and its wiring and electronics were improved.
The 1986 XJ6 4.2 is a solid choice. It used a better Bosch fuel-injection system and had fewer issues thanks to years of fixes and upgrades. The ride and handling were better and built stronger than earlier models. It is one of the more reliable XJs from that time, classic looks with decent daily use.
4. XJ40 Generation (1986–1994)
Best Model: 1994 Jaguar XJ6 (XJ40)
The XJ40 was a full overhaul. Jaguar gave it a boxier look, added modern electronics and early models came with digital dashboards. It was a big step away from the older, rounder style.
It is the top pick from this generation. It came with the better AJ6 engine and more reliable electronics. The digital dash problems and other electrical bugs from earlier years were mostly fixed. It still had that smooth Jaguar ride but added updated performance and safety.
5. X300 Generation (1994–1997)
Best Model: 1996 Jaguar XJ6
This model brought back the classic XJ look but everything underneath was better. The X300 came with the strong AJ16 engine and had fewer electrical problems than older versions.
This models stands out for good reason, it came with one of the best versions of the AJ16 inline-six engine which is strong, smooth, and reliable.
6. X308 Generation (1997–2003)
Best Model: 2002 Jaguar XJ8
The X308 was the first XJ to use V8 engines. It looked a lot like the X300 from the outside but the engine and internals were completely different.
The 2002 XJ8 is one of the best picks from this generation because till then Jaguar had fixed most of the early V8 problems. It ran strong, rode smooth, and had a solid well-built feel. You still got the classic Jaguar style but with better power and modern features.
7. X350 Generation (2003–2009)
Best Model: 2007 Jaguar XJ8
X350 model from this generation was a big change for Jaguar. It had an all-aluminum body which made it lighter, faster, and better on gas than the older models.
The 2007 XJ8 is one of the best picks from this generation because till then, most of the earlier problems were fixed. It had better electronics, smoother air suspension, and a nice interior. The aluminum body also helped prevent rust which was a big issue in older Jaguars.
8. X351 Generation (2010–2019)
Best Model: 2016 Jaguar XJ Supercharged
This generation of Jaguar XJ had whole new appearance with sportier shape and sleek roof. It came with both the V6 and V8 engines.
Its 2016 Jaguar XJ Supercharged is the perfect balance. It comes with the upgraded infotainment system, a powerful supercharged V8, and better build quality than earlier models. You also get updated safety tech and a smoother ride. It is one of the best years if you want modern features without losing that classic Jaguar feel.
Conclusion
From the above gist, we conclude that Jaguar XJ has been evolved over the year across its generations from classic British luxury sedan to modern performance luxury vehicles. If you are considering buying Jaguar XJ from any era, it is highly important to choose a model year which is known for its reliability and refinement. Here in this blog, we have listed some of the models offer best value and experienced from each generation. These models have been shortlisted on the basis of mechanical updates, styling preferences and known issue.
FAQs
Are Jaguar XJ models expensive to maintain?
Jaguar XJs models are expensive to maintain than most of the vehicles. The parts aren’t cheap and repairing takes more time because of its design.
What does XJ stand for in Jaguar XJ?
XJ stands for ‘Experimental Jaguar’.
Which Jaguar XJ has the V8 engine?
The X308 and its later generations have V8 engines.
Is the Jaguar XJ a good used car?
It is a good used car, if you choose a reliable model year and maintain it well.
Does the Jaguar XJ have good resale value?
Its resale value is generally very low.
Are parts available for older Jaguar XJs?
Parts are available for older Jaguar XJ but its availability vary by model year and region.
Is the XJ considered a luxury car?
XJ is considered as a luxury car because of its Jaguar flagship luxury sedan.