NEW XJ50 ANNIVERSARY EDITION JOINS LUXURY SALOON LINE-UP

• Jaguar celebrates half a century of XJ luxury saloon production with special XJ50 model

• Powered by a choice of 3.0-litre petrol and diesel or 5.0-litre petrol engines and available in both standard and long-wheelbase

• Anniversary edition features exclusive exterior design elements including unique badging and distinctive 20-inch alloy wheels

• Key interior design additions include illuminated branded treadplates, Leaper-embossed headrests, exclusive debossed armrest and XJ50 badging

• New 2019 model year Jaguar XJ goes on sale from spring 2018

Whitley, UK, 25 April 2018 – Jaguar is celebrating 50 years of the XJ luxury saloon with the introduction of the XJ50 anniversary edition. Featuring exclusive interior and exterior design details and a choice of powerful engines, the XJ50 is a fitting tribute to Jaguar's iconic luxury sports saloon.

The XJ was launched in 1968 and has been the choice of celebrities, politicians and the British royal family for five decades. Aside from its regular appearances at regal events and official appointments, the XJ has established a reputation as a serenely refined and comfortable luxury car.

To celebrate this landmark the XJ50 introduces a series of exclusive exterior design elements including unique front and rear badging, Autobiography style front and rear bumpers, a gloss black front grille and 20-inch alloy wheels with a unique finish. Customers also get a choice of four exterior colours; Fuji White, Santorini Black, Loire Blue and Rosello Red.

'The XJ is the ultimate expression of saloon car luxury and refinement and has been for half a century. We couldn't let such a landmark pass without recognising 50 years of Jaguar comfort and performance and the XJ50 is as desirable as it is understated. From its soft-grain leather upholstery to its distinctive alloy wheels, the enhancements are designed to showcase its traditional strengths – its unmistakable presence, trademark refinement and engaging driving dynamics.

Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design

The unique design touches continue inside, highlighting the saloon's exceptional comfort, where soft grain diamond-quilted leather seats feature a headrest embossed with the Jaguar leaper. An XJ50 intaglio features alongside the embossed XJ50 logo in the centre armrest and additional badging can be found on the illuminated treadplates. Bright metal pedals enhance the car's performance character.

The unique model is powered by a choice of 340PS 3.0-litre V6 petrol or 300PS 3.0-litre diesel powerplants. These engines provide dynamic performance with 0-100km/h times of 5.9 seconds (0-60mph in 5.7 seconds) and 6.2 seconds (0-60mph in 5.9 seconds) respectively.

In North America customers can also choose the 510PS 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine which is able to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds (0-60mph in 4.7 seconds).

The XJ50 is available in both standard and long-wheelbase derivatives, so whether customers plan to drive themselves or recline in comfort, there is an XJ50 for them.

AT A GLANCE

• The XJ reaffirms its status as the most dynamic, distinctive luxury saloon

• Anniversary edition XJ50 and high performance XJR575 available alongside XJ Luxury, Premium Luxury, Portfolio, R-Sport and top-of-the-range Autobiography models

• XJ50 celebrates five decades of the flagship XJ luxury saloon and features a selection of unique exterior and interior design elements

• Bold exterior design includes full LED headlights and unique double 'J-Blade signature' daytime running lights

• Powerful 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine delivers 300PS/700Nm with CO2 emissions of 185g/km

• Performance flagship XJR575 delivers 575PS and 700Nm for seamless acceleration from its supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine

• Touch Pro infotainment offers door-to-door navigation, seamless iOS and Android connectivity

• 10-inch central touchscreen features high-quality graphics and intuitive user interface

• Reconfigurable 12.3-inch Interactive Driver Display offers full-screen navigation

• All-Surface Progress Control enhances traction on low-friction surfaces such as snow and ice – all the driver has to do is steer

• All-wheel drive (AWD) delivers reassuring levels of grip for all-weather confidence

• All engines now equipped with particulate filters to further reduce emissions*

• Black Pack options for subtly enhanced exterior styling

• Suite of advanced Driver Assistance systems including Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist, Reverse Traffic Detection, Blind Spot Monitoring, 360-degree Surround Camera System and semi-automated bay and parallel parking

The XJ is the pinnacle of Jaguar's saloon car line-up. The luxury sports saloon delivers an unrivalled combination of Jaguar design and driving dynamics along with the ultimate in luxury refinement for drivers and passengers.

As part of the 2019 model year updates, Jaguar is marking 50 years since the introduction of the iconic saloon with a unique XJ50 anniversary model featuring exclusive interior and exterior enhancements and a choice of Jaguar's advanced engines.

Available in standard and long-wheelbase, drivers can choose between the refined 340PS 3.0-litre V6 petrol or powerful 300PS 3.0-litre diesel powerplants. These engines provide dynamic performance with 0-100km/h times of 5.9 seconds (0-60mph in 5.7 seconds) and 6.2 seconds (0-60mph in 5.9 seconds) respectively.

Customers in North America can also specify the vehicle with the 510PS 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine which is capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds (0-60mph in 4.7 seconds).

Unique exterior design elements for the XJ50 includes Autobiography-style front and rear bumpers. These mark the anniversary edition out alongside purposeful new 20-inch Venom wheels, a black front grille and unique badging to the rear and side vents. The anniversary vehicle comes in a choice of Fuji White, Santorini Black, Loire Blue and Rosello Red.

The luxurious cabin features soft grain diamond-sewn seats featuring an embossed leaper in the headrests and a debossed XJ50 logo on the centre armrest. Further unique anniversary edition details include intaglio branding and XJ50-badged illuminated treadplates, alongside anodised gearshift paddles and bright metal pedals.

The authoritative yet elegant design is formed around Jaguar's aluminium-intensive architecture. Its low-slung coupe-like stance, precise lines and carefully judged proportions ensure it is instantly recognisable as a Jaguar from any angle.

Inside, customers experience a perfect combination of intricate handmade details and beautifully crafted materials such as soft-grain leather and inlay veneers alongside advanced technology. Rear occupants benefit from over a metre of legroom in long wheelbase models.

'The Jaguar XJ is the largest model in our saloon car line-up and retains the physical presence and graceful design customers expect from a Jaguar flagship. Anyone who sees this car immediately knows it is both great to drive and to sit in. The intricate details inside and out give owners and passengers the feeling that they are in the presence of something truly special.'

Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar

Creating a dynamic and refined driving experience has always been key to the Jaguar XJ's appeal. Advanced Adaptive Dynamics dampers adjust to suit the conditions and driving style by monitoring the car up to 500 times a second. Analysing acceleration, cornering, throttle and brake pedal activity, and working alongside the air suspension system, the intelligent set-up improves body control in dynamic driving without compromising ride comfort.

Jaguar's leadership in steering feel and vehicle dynamics is enhanced by the application of electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) for rear-wheel-drive models. This set-up also underpins a range of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) including Lane Keep Assist, Driver Condition Monitor and bay and parallel Park Assist.

Jaguar's intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) technology ensures owners can be confident in all weathers. The advanced system reacts to the road conditions and delivers traction where it is most needed. Should the rear wheels begin to slip it will automatically and instantly redistribute torque to the front wheels.

The vehicle's ability is also outstanding in rear-wheel-drive form with All-Surface Progress Control (ASPC) coming into its own in low-grip conditions. Developed for low-speed driving in adverse conditions, ASPC automatically manages the brakes and throttle to deliver the best possible traction, ensuring the vehicle is able to pull away smoothly and without drama: all the driver has to do is steer. ASPC is fitted to all automatic models and operates between 3.6km/h (2.2mph) and 30km/h (19mph) with the driver using the cruise control switches to select and maintain the desired speed.

'Our flagship saloon is more dynamic and distinctive than ever. We've engineered the XJ to deliver even greater levels of luxury and performance. Featuring our world-class Touch Pro infotainment system, luxurious interior materials and finishes which create an even more bespoke feel, and our powerful petrol and diesel engines, the XJ rewards drivers and passengers like no other luxury car.'

Erol Mustafa, Chief Product Engineer, Jaguar XJ

Matching the tradition and craftsmanship of the Jaguar XJ is a raft of state-of-the-art technology, including the seamless and intuitive Touch Pro infotainment system and Connect Pro package which keep the XJ connected to the world. The intuitive technologies provides features such as door-to-door navigation, 4G Wi-Fi and a 1,300W MeridianTM Sound System. This can all be accessed through the 10-inch central touchscreen with smartphone-like usability for greater ease-of-use.

Touch Pro features a high-performance quad-core processor and runs on state-of-the-art, ultra-fast ethernet, and a network technology that offers exceptional data transfer rates. Combined, they deliver incredible graphics and fast response times.

The latest in stereo camera technology enables a number of intelligent safety features such as Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist systems. Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist takes the stress out of motorway driving in stop-go traffic by tracking the vehicle in front, at a safe distance.

Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) enables Jaguar's Adaptive Speed Limiter. Once initiated, the system monitors speed limit signs, compares them with navigation data and, when a change in speed limit is posted, regulates vehicle speed by automatically accelerating up to a higher limit or slowing it down to a lower limit.

Range summary

The XJ range consists of:

• XJ Luxury

• XJ Premium Luxury

• XJ Portfolio

• XJ R-Sport

• XJR575

• XJ Autobiography

• XJ50

The powertrain range consists of:

Diesel

• 300PS 3.0-litre V6 diesel automatic RWD

Petrol

• 340PS 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol automatic RWD/AWD

• 470PS 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol automatic RWD

• 510PS 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol automatic RWD

• 575PS 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol automatic RWD

The XJ is manufactured at Jaguar Land Rover's Castle Bromwich plant, alongside the F-TYPE sports car, XF sports saloon, XF Sportbrake and XE sports saloon.

by Jaguar

The Jaguar XJ series began in 1968 and has continued in various forms and Series into modern times. The first 'Mark' was introduced in 1968 and continued until 1992. During this time there were three series, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3. In 1986 Jaguar introduced the Mark II which continued until 2002. During this time there were the XJ40, XJ81, X300, X305, and X308. The Mark III was introduced in 2003.

Sir John William hailed the JX series as 'the finest Jaguar ever.' The 'XJ' designation had been used during the vehicle development as its codename. When the vehicle was introduced, the codename persisted. When introduced it was powered by a six-cylinder engine that came in either 2.8- or 4.2-liter displacement. In 1972 a 5.3-liter V12 unit was introduced with a total of 3,235 examples being produced its introductory year. From 1968 through 1973, Jaguar produced 82,126 examples of the XJ Series I.

The Jaguar XJ Series II, commonly known as the Series II, was introduced in 1973. It brought mild aesthetic improvements over the prior years. One of the more visual indications of a Series II from a Series I was the smaller front grille. A 3.4-liter engine became available in 1975. In total, 91,227 examples of the Series II were produced with 14,226 being outfitted with the 12-cylinder engine. 8378 examples were of the two-door XJ Coupes which were produced from 1975 through 1978.

The Series II vehicles had a reputation for pool build quality which was partly due to outsourced components. The XJC versions were plagued with loud wind noise and water leakage.

A limited number of XJC pillar-less hardtop coupes were produced from 1975 through 1978. These are commonly known as the XJC. Their chassis's were constructed on the short-wheelbase version of the XJ. They came equipped with either the six or twelve-cylinder engine. An extensive amount of labor was required in order to modify the saloon body to create the XJC. The labor-intensive process and high sticker price was part of the reason only 8378 examples were produced.

In 1979 Jaguar unveiled the Series 3 which remained in production until 1992. The famous design studio, Pininfarina, had been tasked with incorporating design enhancements for the long-wheelbase version. The results were stunning.

The Series III was powered by six- and 12-cylinder engines. In the six-cylinder form, the owner could select either the 3.4-liter or 4.2-liter unit. The V12 unit had 5.3-liters in displacement size. The larger six-cylinder engine and the 12-cylinder unit both utilized Bosch fuel injection. The smaller six used carburetors and now offered for sale in the US.

In total, there were 132,952 examples of the Series III produced. A small percentage of those, 10,500, were equipped with the 12-cylinder engine. In 1987 Jaguar ceased production of the Series III XJ with the six-cylinder engines. The Series III with the 12-cylinder power-plant continued until 1992.

The Series III brought with its cruise control and a sunroof as optional equipment. The Vanden Plas option was introduced in 1982 and intended for the US market. This designation indicated the top-of-the-line offering for the Jaguar XJ which included the twelve-cylinder engine and many luxury items as standard equipment.

The Project XJ40 had been in development by British Leyland (Jaguar) since the 1970's. Designs by Pininfarina were submitted but ultimately, Jaguar decided to stick with its internal design studio for their newest creation. There were delays with the project which delayed its introduction. These delay's, which included the unforeseen fuel crisis, meant the Jaguar Mark II XJ40 was unveiled to European markets until 1986. Since its design had been started in the 1970's, it brought with it many controversial designs from that era. The square headlights were one of these antiquated features.

Jaguar offered the XJ40 with only six-cylinder units when first introduced. The 12-cylinder unit's were not ready, thus the continuation of the Series III with the V12 until 1992. In 1989 Ford took over Jaguar. Work began on redesigning the engine bay to accommodate the V12. It would take a few more years of development until the V12 was ready.

In 1993 a twelve-cylinder version of the Mark II was ready for sale. By now, the vehicles were known as XJ81. Production would continue until 1994 of these 6.0-liter four-door saloons. Power was sent to the rear wheels through a GM 4L80E four-speed automatic gearbox with overdrive on the fourth gear.

In 1995 the XJ6, code-named X300 Series, was introduced which used styling cues from the popular Series III cars. There were now four individual headlights, reminiscent of the Series III era. The hood was also very similar to the S3. The work of the newly designs and updated X300 Series cars was done by Geoff Lawson, the head designer for Jaguar. Included in this series was the XJ6, Vanden Plas, XJR, and Daimler. Power was from a 4-liter six-cylinder unit or from the 6-liter 12-cylinder unit. The XJR version featured a supercharger on the six-cylinder unit. This was a radical departure from Jaguar's history, as a supercharger had never been used by the Jaguar Company. Turbochargers were almost as rare in the company's long and prestigious history. The XJ220 is one of the few Jaguars, up to this point, to have been outfitted with a turbocharger.

Though the exterior of the car had received attention, the interior received very few updates.

Production of the XJ6 continued into 1997.

The XJ12 and Daimler Double Six as introduced in 1995 and produced until 1996. It was known under the codename X305. Production of the XJ12 was low with only 3400 examples produced. Though they shared many design features as the X300 Series, there was much to distinguish between the two series. V12 badges were placed on each side of the vehicle's pillar.

The X308 was introduced in 1997 and continued until 2002. Included in this series was the XJ7, JXR, Daimler, and Vanden Plas. The X308 Series brought about an all-new dashboard. The most significant improvement was the use of eight-cylinder engines. They were offered in 3.2-liter and 4.0-liter displacement sizes. The XJR included a five-speed automatic transmission and a supercharger on the 4.0-liter unit which greatly improve the vehicle's performance. The base 4.0-liter produced 290 horsepower while the supercharger version increased output to 370.

In 2002, Jaguar introduced the XJR 100 which was a limited 500 special edition versions of the XJR. They were all painted in black with matching black leather interior. Alloy sport wheels, red stitching in the interior, and maple trim were used exclusively on the XJR 100.

The Mark III was introduced in 2002 and brought about an all-new aluminum lightweight body. These were codenamed the X350. Included in this series was the XJ6, XJ8, XJR, Vanden Plas, Super V8, and Daimler Super Eight. Visually, the vehicle had changed little. The biggest improvements were under the hood and throughout the other mechanical components. The chassis and body were constructed mostly from aluminum with small amounts of steel.

The Super V8 made its debut in 2004. This was a long-wheelbase version of the XJ and is considered the most luxurious and powerful of the series. As such, it is also the most expensive. Under the hood was a 4.2-liter supercharged V8 that produced 400 horsepower. A limited-edition, called the Super V8 Portfolio, was introduced at the 2005 New York Auto Show as a 2006 model. It carried a base price of $115,999. Improvements were more power and luxury enhancements. There were only limited colors offered, either Black Cherry or Winter Gold. Zero-to-sixty took just five seconds.

The Mark III, aka X350, was powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that came in natural aspiration or supercharger. The base engine produced 300 horsepower while the supercharger version raised that figure to 400.

by Dan Vaughan