Jaguar

9 Generations Of Jaguar XJ proving luxury and style

Fifty years later and the Jaguar XJ continues to shine

The Jaguar XJ has been in the British automaker’s lineup since 1968, quickly becoming the brand’s flagship. Fifty years since its introduction and the XJ is still Jaguar’s flagship offering, growing in size and luxury every year.

First Generation: 1968-1973

The first generation of the XJ is known as Series 1. It offered two straight-six engines before offering a V12 in 1972. Top speed for the V12 was around 140 miles per hour.

Jaguar 1968

Second Generation: 1973-1979

The second generation of the XJ saw the automaker update the styling inside and out while introducing another engine – a 3.4-liter straight-six. A two-door version – the XJ Coupe debuted for the 1975 model year. Jaguar discontinued the coupe in 1978.

Third Generation: 1979-1986

The third generation XJ was yet another iteration of the previous generation. Design changes included rubber bumpers with decorative chrome trim, a revised roofline, flush door handles, and a grille with just vertical slats.

Fourth Generation: 1986-1994

With the 1986 XJ, Jaguar dropped the “Series” designation. Jaguar improved quality, increased chassis stiffness, reduced cabin noise, and saved weight. The new platform also gave the XJ a significant design change. The fourth-generation XJ was more angular than the model it replaced. A new straight-six engine was offered with the V12 returning in 1993.

Jaguar

Jaguar EVOLUTION

Fifth Generation: 1994-1997

Ford took ownership of Jaguar in 1990 making the fifth-generation XJ in 1994 the first designed with the help of the Dearborn automaker. The fifth-generation XJ saw the sedan receive a major design update up front, with the return of four individual headlights that mimicked the sculpted hood design.

Jag

Jaguar.7 WheelsAge.org

Sixth Generation: 1997-2003

The sixth-generation XJ saw minor design improvements over the outgoing model. The XJ saw the straight-six and V12 engines replaced with V8 units. 

Seventh Generation: 2003-2007

In 2003, the XJ got another substantial update with an all-new chassis and exterior design. The XJ’s new design continued to evoke the design of the Series XJs with round headlights and a sculpted hood continuing. 

Eighth Generation: 2007-2009

The eight-generation XJ received a mild refresh with a redesigned front and rear fascia, which included a new grille, new lower fascia, and revised bumper. The new XJ used less chrome. Ford announced its intent to sell Jaguar in 2007. 

JAGUAR

2009 JAGUAR XJ –
zombdrive.com

Ninth Generation: 2009-Present

With a new owner – Tata Motors – Jaguar introduced a new Jaguar XJ. While the new XJ has a wildly different design when compared to its predecessor, it used the same underpinnings as the previous generation.

Jag

Jaguar XJ/autocar.co.uk

 

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

editor's pick

latest video

news via inbox

Nulla turp dis cursus. Integer liberos  euismod pretium faucibua

Leave A Comment

you might also like