2000 Jaguar Xjr in Nashville, TN - $22,770

"Using aluminum throughout, we have created a car that takes technology -- and the application of technology -- to new heights. The new XJ is without doubt the most advanced Jaguar ever," said Mike Beasley, managing director, Jaguar Cars

How do you improve on true automotive elegance? One way is to improve the definitive Jaguar sedan by replacing its traditional steel construction with an aluminum monocoque body. Another way is to make this sedan larger and more spacious while retaining its distinctive proportions. Still, the engineers could add more power to the engine, while tweaking its performance attributes.

Crafted at the automaker's Castle Bromwich, England, assembly plant, Jaguar engineers developed a car that is larger in every respect than the model it replaces. It has more features and driver-assisting technologies, and yet weighs almost 200 lbs. less than the outgoing generation.

As the flagship at the top of the new seventh-generation XJ sedan family, the XJR is a technological tour de force featuring a supercharged version of the AJ-V8 eight cylinder engine bolted to a state-of-the-art ZF 6HP26 six-speed automatic transmission. With a 0-60 capability of 5.0 seconds, the XJR also has a radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control system as standard equipment.

On the road, the XJR is a dream to drive. Power is seamless and plentiful. Handling is world class, even in the twisties no danger is felt -- even at the edge of its performance envelope.

Starting with the strong, lightweight chassis as the foundation, the XJR has a four-wheel independent suspension system that employs R-Performance tuned enhanced Computer Active Technology (CATS) damping and a forged aluminum double wishbone design at each wheel. A 31 mm anti-roll bar in front and 17 mm anti-roll bar in the rear help to keep the large cat firmly in contact with the pavement.

Inside the cabin, the Jaguar is both contemporary and traditional, technologically advanced and familiar. Driver and passengers are coddled in comfort and convenience.

Ian Callum, director of Design for Jaguar, describes the all-new XJ interior as a "warm, inviting classic Jaguar interior."

Comprehensively equipped with contemporary luxury car technology but restrained and conservative in style, the new XJ is distinguished by classic Jaguar design cues and hallmark attention to detail.

Real walnut veneers for the facia, center console and door trims, together with new softer leathers set the tone for the passenger compartment. With 12- or 16-way adjustable front seats with electrically adjustable headrests and two different options for rear seating configurations, the new XJ is equipped to pamper its occupants.



Quick vehicle stats

2004 Jaguar XJR sedan

Wheelbase: 119.4; overall length: 200.4; width: 73.2; height: 57.0 -- measurements in inches

Engine: 4.2L V-8 supercharged -- 390 hp at 6,100 rpm and 399 lbs-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm

Transmission: ZF six-speed automatic

EPA fuel economy: 17 city/24 hwy. using premium unleaded gasoline

Cargo capacity: 16.6 cubic ft.

Safety equipment

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, emergency brake assist, first aid kit, remote keyless entry, engine immobilizer, dynamic stability control, traction control, front fog lights, Xenon headlights, rear Park Distance control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, full size spare tire and adjustable foot pedals.

Optional safety equipment includes navigation system and front Park Distance control.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, limited

Full maintenance schedule: 4-year/50,000 mile

Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited

Roadside assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile, 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2004 Jaguar XJR sedan starts at $74,330. Destination charge adds $665.

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