Official: 2010 Jaguar XJ breaks cover

Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, the all-new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to automotive luxury. It offers a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and engineering without compromise.

The new Jaguar XJ is the epitome of fluid, contemporary automotive style. The elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car's silhouette and lies at the heart of its flowing design. And the new Jaguar XJ doesn't just look streamlined: it shares a drag coefficient of 0.29 with the Jaguar XF saloon, making them the most aerodynamic Jaguars ever.

A coupé profile cloaks a cabin that offers comparable levels of space to saloons with a more conventional style. There is generous accommodation for five occupants, while long-wheelbase models provide rear-seat passengers with even greater levels of comfort thanks to an additional 125mm of rear legroom.

The exquisitely designed interior has a strong sporting character throughout. A panoramic glass roof, standard on all models, dramatically enhances the sense of light and space inside the new Jaguar XJ. And in keeping with its status as the ultimate four-door Jaguar, the XJ introduces a new generation of interior technologies, pioneering the use of display and infotainment systems such as the innovative Virtual Instrument dials and optional 1200W Bowers & Wilkins premium surround sound system.

At the heart of the all-new Jaguar XJ's construction is a next-generation application of Jaguar's unique lightweight vehicle architecture. Primarily aluminium, but also using magnesium and composite alloys, this allows Jaguar to produce a significantly lighter and stiffer body - the lightest in its class. The new structure - which retains the same aerospace-based riveting and bonding processes - has been refined using these advanced materials to deliver improved strength, enhanced refinement and superior safety performance.

The new Jaguar XJ offers the choice of four powerful and refined engines, which use the latest powertrain technology to deliver an outstanding combination of performance and class-leading efficiency. The supremely powerful supercharged 510PS 5.0-litre AJ-V8 Gen III will head the line-up, with a 0-60mph time of 4.7 secs (0-100kph in 4.9 secs); 470PS supercharged and 385PS naturally aspirated petrol V8s are also available, dependent on market.

A no-compromise diesel alternative is provided by the formidable 275PS 3.0-litre AJ-V6D Gen III. With twin sequential turbochargers, this is an engine that delivers on every aspect of the Jaguar driving experience, marrying tremendous drive (0-60mph in 6.0 secs, 0-100kph in 6.4 secs) with impressive fuel economy and CO2 emissions (40.1mpg and 184g/km of CO2).

The all-new Jaguar XJ delivers a driving experience that is just as memorable as the car's appearance. Benefitting from technologies pioneered on the exciting new Jaguar XFR and Jaguar XKR models, including continuously variable damping (Adaptive Dynamics), electronically controlled rear differential (Active Differential Control) and a quick ratio power-steering system, the new Jaguar XJ combines responsive, sporting dynamics with the refined, supple ride expected from a luxury Jaguar.

With its unique lightweight aluminium body structure and new, advanced powertrains, the all-new Jaguar XJ already has a head start when it comes to sustainable performance. The aluminium body uses more than 50 percent recycled material, with a plan to increase this to 75 percent. Body panels made from recycled material use only 5 percent of the energy required for new aluminium, equating to a potential saving of three tonnes of CO2 per vehicle.

THE CONCEPT

The all-new Jaguar XJ's distinctive lines mark the next bold evolution of Jaguar's new design language. The striking elongated teardrop shape of the side window graphic establishes the car's streamlined profile, and is balanced by a dramatic lower swage line emanating from the front wheels that reinforces the vehicle's forward stance. The new Jaguar XJ's sleek lines are complemented by a taut waistline, which further accentuates the impression of length and elegance and creates a natural tension as it fades from the front arch into the middle section of the car before reappearing as a strong haunch towards the rear.

Bold, confident face

The face of the XJ is confident, with a wide front track and short overhangs contributing to the finely judged proportions. The nose of the car follows Jaguar's new design language, with a bold and assertive treatment: the powerful mesh grille and slim xenon headlamps creating a strong road presence.

The strong, muscular lower half of the car is contrasted with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline, which takes inspiration from the original 1968 XJ saloon. The wrap-around rear screen reduces the visual weight of the pillars, and gives the impression of an exotic 'floating' roof.

And the new Jaguar XJ doesn't just look sleek and streamlined: it is, alongside the XF, the most aerodynamic Jaguar ever. The car has a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29, and, equally importantly, outstanding high-speed stability.

A key factor in achieving this highly efficient aerodynamic performance was the extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to refine the shape long before the car ever saw a wind tunnel. Taking the process pioneered on the XF programme to a new level of sophistication, more than 400 detailed CFD studies were performed during the initial design phase.

Every area of the new Jaguar XJ - from the outer skin to the composite undertray to the fine grille meshes of the cooling system - was optimised using this process. Key areas included the profile of the rear decklid, which was engineered to ensure that the airflow was controlled without the need for a spoiler. As well as reduced drag and impressively low wind noise, the overall shape achieves aerodynamic loads that are carefully balanced between front and rear axles to ensure optimum handling balance and high-speed stability.

Dramatic LED lights

The rear end is notable for its pure, sculpted shape, with a conscious absence of unnecessary ornamentation. The sheet metal of the rear panel retains its pure form, with a single leaping Jaguar motif making a strong, confident statement. The LED light clusters wrap stylishly over the rear wings, and feature three dramatic red, vertical strips.

Architectural interior design

The overriding impression from the interior is a sense of personal space, a feeling enhanced by the clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle. At the sides of the cabin, a bold architectural wood veneer sweeps forward from the doors to meet at the front of the car, emphasising the new Jaguar XJ's powerful, dynamic character. This linear, modern use of wood helps to create a truly welcoming environment.

The panoramic glass roof has been from the outset an integral part of the design concept of the all-new Jaguar XJ. It enables a lower, more streamlined roofline, and also dramatically enhances the feeling of light and space within the car. The roof's opening mechanism slides the glass upwards and outwards, so that headroom is never compromised. A dark tint and reflective coating prevent the interior from overheating under strong sunlight, while twin electric blinds provide another level of privacy and sun screening.

THE TECHNOLOGY

In keeping with its position as the ultimate Jaguar saloon, the all-new Jaguar XJ pioneers the use of advanced new technologies, driver displays and infotainment systems that set an exciting new benchmark within its segment.

As the driver is greeted by the signature Jaguar 'handshake' - the circular knurled aluminium rotary control of the JaguarDrive Selector™ rising into the driver's palm - stylish 3D animations materialise in the virtual instrument cluster and on the central Touch-screen, giving an immediate signal that the new Jaguar XJ takes a revolutionary approach to the way information is displayed in the vehicle.

Sophisticated virtual instrumentation

There is no physical instrument cluster display in the all-new Jaguar XJ. Instead, a 12.3-inch high-definition screen, which uses sophisticated - and beautifully detailed - virtual instruments, provides all of the functions performed by traditional dials. Jaguar's designers have also taken advantage of the freedom provided by virtual instrumentation to help prioritise the most useful information as well as creating a real sense of theatre for the driver.

As the XJ starts, three virtual dials build before your eyes: the centre dial houses a speedometer, flanked on the right by a rev counter and on the left by an information window with fuel and temperature gauges.

To maximise clarity, the display employs a 'spotlight' effect to highlight the areas showing the most important information, such as the current speed or engine revs. When required - for example, if fuel is running low, or the driver is selecting a radio station - the rev counter fades away to be temporarily replaced by the required warning message or menu.

This prioritisation goes to another level when the driver who is looking for even more sporting performance and handling selects the XJ's Dynamic mode. In this case, the dials assume a sporting red hue and feature a bold gear position indicator which glows red as you reach the rev limiter.

Dual-View Touch-screen display

A large, 8-inch Touch-screen display in the centre console is the ideal complement to the virtual instrument cluster, providing an intuitive way to manage many of the Jaguar XJ's functions, including climate control, audio, communications and navigation.

However, the display is more than simply intuitive; it also features Dual-View technology, a significant advance that allows the driver and front passenger to look at completely different content on the same screen. For example, the passenger can watch television or a DVD movie, while the driver views route navigation mapping. Headphone compatibility allows the passenger to listen without the driver being distracted.

The Touch-screen interface allows the number of conventional switches to be reduced to a minimum, with just a small number of major controls positioned below the display. The driver can also use Jaguar's latest generation Interactive Voice control system, which sees the cluster display present a list of prompts for key words to control a particular function. This new "say what you see" approach quickly allows the driver to gain confidence and familiarity using systems such as the in-car telephone, navigation or audio.

Flexible multimedia capabilities including Hard Disc Drive (HDD)

The impressive flexibility provided by the new display and control systems is matched by the all-new Jaguar XJ's multimedia capabilities. Depending on market and model, there is a choice of CD/DVD player; analogue, DAB, HD radio or SiriusTM radio receivers; and digital or analogue television. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth® audio streaming and an auxiliary input, which allow the user to connect with iPods®, iPhones®, laptops and Blackberries®, for example.

The audio unit utilises a hard-disc-drive (HDD) system, so that CDs can be loaded onto the HDD for later listening. GracenoteTM is included to allow artist and track information to be recognised. The vehicle's navigation system is also HDD-based, providing quicker access and the ability to store and update detailed mapping information more easily.

THE EXPERIENCE

With a stiff, lightweight body structure, a new generation of ultra-efficient, high-performance powertrains and the latest chassis technologies, the all-new Jaguar XJ is an outstanding premium sports saloon that delivers an exhilarating driving experience.

The primary objective while developing the new Jaguar XJ was to provide a combination of focused and responsive sporting dynamics, allied to the suppleness and refinement of a luxury vehicle. The all-new Jaguar XJ is very much a driver's car and surprisingly agile for its size, but without any compromise to comfort.

At more relaxed cruising speeds the new Jaguar XJ is blissfully silent. A full secondary bulkhead, laminated glass in all the main windows, streamlined aerodynamics and an optimised body structure help to reduce noise levels to an absolute minimum. When driven in a more spirited fashion, however, carefully tuned air intake systems deliver an inspiring engine soundtrack.

Giving even greater level of personal control, the Jaguar XJ driver can tailor the driving experience to suit their mood or conditions. JaguarDrive ControlTM offers two different modes: Dynamic mode, for a more sporting and responsive character, and Winter mode, for greater confidence in low-grip conditions. Each mode changes the characteristics of engine mapping, transmission shifts, Adaptive Dynamics and Active Differential Control systems and DSC interventions.

In Dynamic mode gearshift changes are later, the suspension stiffens and even the presentation and colour of the main instrument dials changes. And in Winter mode, the transmission selects second gear to provide greater traction from standstill.

There are also interior passive safety technologies with active seat belts that draw you in to the seat under heavy braking or hard cornering, and when Dynamic Mode is activated.

Efficient, refined powertrains

The new Jaguar XJ offers the choice of up to four powerful and refined engines, Heading the line-up is the supremely powerful new supercharged 5.0-litre V8, available with 510PS or 470PS, depending on model. Jaguar's new flagship engine, the 510PS V8, is available only in the range-topping Supersport model. The other petrol option is the smooth and responsive 385PS naturally-aspirated V8, while completing the range is the formidable 3.0-litre 275PS AJ-V6D Gen III diesel. With twin sequential turbochargers, the V6 diesel marries tremendous drive with impressive fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

The new direct-injection 5.0-litre AJ-V8 Gen III V8 petrol engines were introduced at the beginning of 2009. They were developed from the outset to deliver significantly increased power and torque, but with improved emissions and fuel efficiency. Particular emphasis was also placed on achieving a sporting character, combining responsive low-end torque with spirited top-end performance.

The new V8 has a compact and lightweight all-aluminium design, with class-leading low levels of internal friction. It features an industry-first, centrally-mounted, multi-hole, spray-guided fuel injection system, which delivers fuel at a pressure of up to 150bar directly to the centre of the combustion chamber, maximising air-fuel mixing and improving combustion control.

Efficiency is further enhanced by an innovative new variable camshaft timing system (VCT), which is activated by the positive and negative torques generated by opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves, instead of by oil pressure. This has allowed the engine oil pump to be reduced in size, saving energy and reducing fuel consumption.

The 510PS and 470PS supercharged engines are fitted with a sixth-generation, twin vortex system (TVS) supercharger. A compact Roots-type unit, it has a high-helix rotor design that increases supercharger thermodynamic efficiency by 16 percent and improves noise quality to the point where the unit is now virtually inaudible.

The naturally aspirated version is equipped with a new variable inlet manifold (VIM) and camshaft profile switching (CPS) on the inlet camshaft, which work together to optimise power and torque throughout the rev range.

The results are truly impressive. Compared to the 4.2-litre V8s in the previous Jaguar XJ, power is increased by 29 percent on both the 510PS supercharged and naturally aspirated versions. The 470PS supercharged engine is 19 percent more powerful than the outgoing 4.2-litre engine.

Yet despite the significant performance increase, CO2 emissions and fuel economy are at the same competitive levels for both engines, which also meet stringent EU5 and US ULEV2 emissions regulations.

Advanced new V6 twin-turbocharged diesel engine

The new 3.0-litre AJ-V6D Gen III diesel uses cutting-edge technologies to deliver seamless performance with exceptional efficiency, providing the all-new Jaguar XJ with the ultimate in power, response and refinement in the premium diesel segment.

A key feature of the new V6 diesel engine is the unique, 'parallel sequential' turbocharger system, the first of its type to be fitted to a V-engine anywhere in the world. Delivering high torque throughout the entire engine rev range, improved throttle response and low CO2 emissions, the twin-turbochargers work sequentially to deliver unrivalled response and torque at low engine speeds, while packing a huge punch at higher engine speeds.

For most day-to-day driving, including motorway cruising, a responsive, variable-geometry primary turbocharger does all the work, while the smaller, fixed-geometry, secondary turbo is dormant, saving energy and improving efficiency. When the engine revs climb above 2800rpm, the secondary turbo is brought on line within 300 milliseconds, smoothly and seamlessly boosting the engine output with no discernible turbo-lag or power-step.

Jaguar engineers have particularly focussed on the issue of turbocharger 'lag' at low engine speeds. The new AJ-V6D significantly out-performs its rivals in this respect by delivering 500Nm of torque in only 500 milliseconds from idle.

A new common rail fuel-injection system delivers up to five diesel injections on each cycle at a pressure of 2000bar, increasing power, improving economy and reducing both CO2 and particulate emissions. The system also minimises combustion noise, which, in combination with the compact graphite iron (CGI) cylinder block and comprehensive sound deadening measures, makes the new engine amongst the quietest premium diesels on the market today.

The outstanding emissions performance is achieved using conventional diesel oxidation catalysts and diesel particulate filters (DPFs). NOx levels are reduced at source through the combustion system design, the common rail injection system and a fully optimised EGR system with by-pass. As a result, specialised NOx exhaust after-treatment is unnecessary, avoiding the need to use additional precious metals in the exhaust system.

Compared to the highly acclaimed 2.7-litre unit that accounted for up to 25 percent of XJ sales worldwide, the new V6 Diesel is 33 percent more powerful at 275PS, while torque rises by 38 percent to a substantial 600Nm.

When combined with the XJ's lightweight structure, the performance gains are considerable. Acceleration to 60mph is accomplished in just 6.0 seconds, on the way to an electronically governed top speed of 155mph. Fuel economy and emissions are also impressive, with the diesel-powered XJ returning combined economy figures of 40.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 184g/km

Advanced six-speed automatic transmission

All the engines in the new Jaguar XJ transmit power through an enhanced version of Jaguar's acclaimed six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission has a fully-adaptive shift system which delivers extremely smooth gear changes and optimises performance and economy at all times. Shift patterns are continually adapted to suit the current driving style, with shift points varying according to whether the driver is using a more sporting or relaxed approach.

The high levels of torque produced by the new engines make it possible for the torque converter lock-up feature to be used even at low speeds, without slip, further improving CO2 emissions and fuel economy.

As befits a sports saloon, all XJ models are fitted with the Jaguar Sequential Shift™ system for manual gear selection, with shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel. The system has been tuned for quicker responses, resulting in a smoother, more powerful shift feel and an almost instantaneous shift.

The lifecycle of a vehicle

The all-new Jaguar XJ takes a new approach to sustainable motoring, with its lightweight aluminium body structure and advanced powertrains. It backs this up by delivering outstanding quality and extremely low cost of ownership.

Jaguar has developed its approach to sustainability by focusing on the 'lifecycle' of a vehicle; a more stringent approach to sustainability than standalone measures like fuel consumption or CO2 emissions.

A lifecycle approach means minimising the amount of materials used, incorporating recycled material wherever possible, using low-energy manufacturing processes, maximising durability, and making the vehicle easy to recycle at the end of its life.

Jaguar's aluminium architecture is a significant contributor to the sustainability of the new Jaguar XJ. It uses around 50 percent recycled material in the body, and plans are in place to increase that figure to 75 percent. This alone creates a saving of three tonnes of CO2 per vehicle, compared to a bodyshell made from new aluminium.

The new Jaguar XJ still returns excellent figures when you consider more traditional measures of sustainability, such as CO2 emissions, where the 3.0-litre AJ-V6D produces just 184g/km.

DRIVER AIDS & SAFETY SYSTEMS

To complement its powerful engines and advanced driving dynamics, the new Jaguar XJ provides a comprehensive set of active safety aids including: an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Understeer Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Traction Control (ETC), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Engine Drag Torque Control and, for vehicles fitted with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Electronic Brake Pre-fill.

A two-stage DSC system combines the normal on-off switchable DSC function, which reacts as soon as it detects slip, with Trac DSC - which allows more slip before intervening -for a more sporting driving experience. Pressing and holding the DSC button for 10 seconds fully disables electronic intervention, allowing an experienced driver to exploit fully the capability of the new Jaguar XJ chassis as they choose, where conditions allow.

new Jaguar XJs with either supercharged engine are fitted with the advanced new Active Differential Control (ADC) system that was introduced at the beginning of 2009 on the XKR and XFR models. This system uses a computer-controlled differential to distribute torque to the rear wheels in a much more sophisticated way than a conventional mechanical differential, improving both traction and dynamic stability and providing more sporting handling.

ADC uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the final drive to vary the degree of differential locking - and therefore the proportion of torque to each driven rear wheel - depending on surface conditions and power applied. Its control strategies optimise traction at each wheel, improving acceleration on low-grip surfaces and enhancing cornering ability, but with no adverse effect on either refinement or stability.

Drivers of the new Jaguar XJ also benefit from a number of additional active safety features that provide enhanced confidence and security when on the road.

The xenon headlamps are available with an intelligent high beam system, which switches high beam on and off according to the presence of oncoming traffic and the prevailing lighting conditions. This feature is combined with adaptive lighting, which swivels the headlamps to follow the road when cornering, and also provides additional LED illumination when manoeuvring at low speeds.

Other technologies include Adaptive Cruise Control, which monitors the gap to traffic ahead and adjusts the cruise control system and speed accordingly; a radar-based blind-spot monitoring system that alerts the XJ driver to vehicles in close proximity on either side; and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System that continuously monitors pressure and temperature.

ADVANCED BODY ENGINEERING

The advanced lightweight body architecture of the all-new Jaguar XJ is hugely impressive in its own right - but the technologies used in its engineering development are equally of note, Pioneered by Jaguar during the development of the XF, the Virtual Process (VP) and Virtual Series (VS) processes use massive computing power and sophisticated modelling programmes to create and refine components and systems in the virtual world, long before physical parts are produced.

Together, VP and VS significantly improve quality and manufacturing efficiency, benefitting craftsmanship, durability and reliability.

For the all-new Jaguar XJ, this ground-breaking approach has been enhanced by the use of a state-of-the-art Jaguar Virtual Reality Centre, sited at Jaguar Land Rover's Warwickshire headquarters.

The four-walled virtual reality 'cave' allows engineers to visualise CAD models of vehicles and components as full-size 3D images, using eight powerful, high-definition projectors to create photo-quality images. Wearing 3D glasses, engineers gain unprecedented access to their designs, viewing the virtual car from any angle, inside and out.

This technology has proved particularly effective at identifying potential conflicts with the routing of piping or wiring within the vehicle, allowing problems to be resolved very early in the design process.

Achieving class-leading quality was an obsession throughout the development process of the all-new Jaguar XJ, with almost 40,000 specific quality-related assessments conducted at an early stage of the vehicle's development. Exceeding customers' expectations in terms of 'perceived quality' was a particular focus, with all components that a customer can see, touch or smell exhaustively analysed to ensure that they met or exceeded the challenging targets appropriate for a Jaguar.

The entire body of the all-new Jaguar XJ - including the monocoque chassis structure and external body panels - is made from a combination of pressed, cast and extruded aluminium alloy components. The joints in the shell are riveted and bonded together using techniques originally developed in the aerospace industry and adapted for automotive use by Jaguar.

The advance in the new Jaguar XJ is in the use of new materials such as aluminium 'Fusion' alloys and optimised body design. Together these deliver improved strength, enhanced refinement and superior safety performance.

SUSPENSION & STEERING

The superb torsional rigidity of the all-new Jaguar XJ's aluminium body structure provides the perfect platform for its suspension system. A further development of the design adopted by the Jaguar XK sports car and XF sports saloon, the new Jaguar XJ's suspension is true to the modern Jaguar DNA, being developed to provide a focused and responsive sporting character allied to the suppleness and refinement essential for a luxury sports saloon.

The front-end suspension mirrors the new XF, featuring unequal length wishbones with weight-saving forged aluminium components, suspended by coil springs. The front subframe is directly mounted to the body for enhanced steering response and handling precision. The system is designed to deliver maximum control, providing excellent straight-line stability and strong anti-dive characteristics under heavy braking, with minimum road noise and vibration.

At the rear the subframe-mounted, multi-link rear suspension features lightweight cast aluminium links and shares the same sophisticated design as the new XK and XF. For the all-new Jaguar XJ, however, air suspension is used.

Air suspension maintains an optimum ride height at all times and also helps to ensure that the new Jaguar XJ retains a high level of refinement and rolling comfort without compromising its sporting driving characteristics.

To help achieve that highly desirable balance between impeccable high-speed handling and a cosseting ride, the XJ also uses the advanced new Adaptive Dynamics active damping system. Introduced at the beginning of 2009 on the new XK and XFR models, this system automatically optimises suspension damper settings to suit both road conditions and the way the car is being driven. It provides a continuously variable range of damping between a firmer sports setting and a softer setting for ride comfort, delivering optimum body control and vehicle ride whatever the circumstances.

The all-new Jaguar XJ uses an enhanced variable ratio power-assisted steering system, tuned to deliver reduced parking effort at low speeds with greater precision and feedback at higher speeds, including the positive on-centre 'feel' that has become a Jaguar dynamic trademark.

BRAKES, WHEELS & TYRES

The all-new Jaguar XJ benefits from the same powerful braking system that was developed for the new XK sports car. Diesel and naturally aspirated V8-engined XJs are fitted with 355mm front discs and 326mm discs at the rear. The powerful 470PS and 510PS V8 supercharged models feature 380mm front discs gripped by lightweight aluminium twin-piston floating callipers, with 376mm rear discs. All discs across the range are ventilated.

Jaguar's Electric Parking Brake system, which automatically engages when the engine is turned off and is released when Drive is selected, has the option of manual operation if required, using a stylish chrome fingertip control in the centre console.

The majority of new Jaguar XJ models will be fitted with 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels, although an 18-inch design will be offered in some markets. There are six stunning designs, some with the additional option of polished or chrome finishes..

For the first time on a Jaguar saloon, wider wheels with lower profile tyres are fitted at the rear of the car, optimising grip and enhancing the vehicle's sporting stance.

PASSIVE SAFETY FEATURES

The all-new Jaguar XJ adopts the Pedestrian Contact Sensing™ system that is already proven on the XK and XF. Featuring an automatically deployable bonnet, it helps mitigate pedestrian injuries in the event of an impact by propelling the bonnet upwards creating a cushioned space between it and engine/chassis hard points.

Inside the new Jaguar XJ, an active seat belt system pre-tensions the belts when it detects heavy braking or hard cornering. This technology complements conventional pyrotechnic pre-tensioners by progressively tightening the seat belts in proportion to the severity of the manoeuvre, enhancing the feeling of security. When the XJ returns to a more relaxed driving condition, the tension in the belt is released.

Airbags are far from a new technology, but the new Jaguar XJ's airbag system works in conjunction with seat occupant sensing to ensure the airbags deploy only as required and with the appropriate force in any individual circumstance. Two-stage driver and front passenger airbags, side and curtain airbags are complemented by the added protection for front seat occupants of an anti-whiplash system in the seat structure.

THE LUXURY

The all-new Jaguar XJ makes every journey a special occasion, both for the driver and passengers. From the Jaguar 'handshake' as you start the vehicle, to the comfort and support of the sculpted seats, the style and quality of the interior furnishings and the outstanding audio system, every detail has been painstakingly developed to create a truly unique experience.

The new Jaguar XJ enjoys more sumptuous leather than any previous Jaguar. It adorns all of the main surfaces, including the seats, instrument panel, door tops, centre console and armrests. The exclusive Supersport model even has a leather roof-liner.

Like the seams on a hand-tailored Savile Row suit, the soft-grain leather on the seats features beautiful twin-needle stitching. Visually seductive, this complex stitching delivers a feeling of true opulence and style, but in a very modern way.

The driver grips a beautifully-trimmed three-spoke steering wheel, and the broad centre console - positioned further rearward thanks to the absence of a conventional gear lever - helps to provide an intimate, cockpit-like feel.

The new Jaguar XJ's elegant switchgear and phosphor blue lighting enhance the contemporary, luxurious mood still more. The doors feature a beautiful pannier-style storage compartment, inspired by the look and feel of a high-quality, hand-stitched designer briefcase. Each pannier also features twin-needle stitched leather for a tailored look and feel, complemented by a single chrome highlight running along the edge to emphasise the rich character of both materials.

Reflecting the all-new Jaguar XJ's approach to luxurious 'personal space', the new trim and colour selections, which include a fresh range of more daring colours chosen by the Jaguar Design Studio team, offer the opportunity for increased interior personalisation. Nine different mirror-matched wood veneers are available, all chosen to create a crisp, contemporary appearance, while carbon fibre and piano black finishes are also available for those who prefer a more technical ambience.

The simplicity and purity of the interior design emphasises the fine execution of detail. The four spherical air vents contrast a high-gloss piano black finish with chromed metal components. This stylish combination of piano black and chrome is repeated on the centre console; it's deliberately very subtle, with the number of visible switches kept to a minimum.

Centre stage on the instrument panel is an analogue clock, its individual chrome graduations, spun metal face and iridescent blue background inspired by luxury wristwatches. Many of these design details are picked out by the phosphor blue interior lighting, which further helps to create a relaxing and harmonious ambience.

Luxury in all climates

Complete luxury in all weathers and temperatures is provided by a climate control system that can also offer the latest in high-comfort seating systems. The standard climate control system in the new Jaguar XJ is a two-zone technology, with independent temperature settings on each side of the vehicle. Long-wheelbase- and higher specification models have a four-zone system, with separate controls and ventilation outlets for the rear seat passengers.

Depending on model, the new Jaguar XJ can be specified with heated and cooled front and rear seats, with the option of heating or cooling the squab only or the entire seat. The multi-adjustable seats also have the option of a seat massage function and an adjustable squab bolster system.

Outstanding audio performance

The new Jaguar XJ's cabin doesn't just provide a treat for the eyes, it provides a treat for the ears as well. In addition to the mellifluous but sporting exhaust note, there is a choice of high-performance audio options. Depending on market and model, the vehicle can offer the choice of CD/DVD functions; analogue, DAB or SiriusTM satellite radio receivers; digital or analogue television; and connectivity for portable music devices.

The ultimate audio experience is provided by the 1200W Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system. Bowers & Wilkins is an award-winning British manufacturer of audio and loudspeaker systems. The 1200W system in the all-new Jaguar XJ combines 20 Bowers & Wilkins speakers powered through 15 channels and state-of-the-art sound processing technology. The result is sound quality so pure and so good that it equals that of a high-end home system.

Among the innovations employed to achieve this level of aural performance is the first automotive application of the sophisticated Audyssey MultEQ XT® audio tuning system, which digitally corrects any imperfections to deliver accurate and distortion-free sound for all seating positions. In addition, the new Jaguar XJ marks the first automotive application of Dolby® Pro Logic IIx technology, and is also the first vehicle to also offer the choice of the DTSTM Neo:6 decoder, to deliver the latest 7.1 surround sound audio.

When the rear-seat entertainment package is specified, passengers have access to dual 8-inch LCD screens in the rear of the front headrests and wireless infra-red digital headphones. A specially designed portable touch-screen controller allows passengers to select their preferred source of entertainment, with the two rear screens and all headphones controlled independently.