REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

British Flair

The Jaguar camp has lost its sense of tradition and this shift would seem to be for the better. In fact, since the British make introduced the 4.0-litre V8 under the hood of the XJ8 sedan, consumer confidence has been bolstered and sales are increasing at a nice pace. Still, it’s true that the engine isn’t the only reason why the make is on the rise again - Ford, Jaguar’s American benefactor, insists on achieving the ultimate objectives of efficiency, profitability and reliability.With shinier eyes and a stronger jaw, the XJ series still remains the most classic of all and it hasn’t lost any of its shine. Its interior continues to be very comfortable. Ford’s influence and expertise have had an effect, among others, door panels are moulded in a single block to ensure better quality and to reduce manufacturing costs. The same goes for accessories, with a steering wheel (with multiple adjustment possibilities) now sporting the controls for the radio, telephone and automatic speed system. Unfortunately, the dashboard is still laid out in a very whimsical way. It’s high time to clean it up! In addition, bucket seats are short and force the driver to sit on the very edge. Another annoyance is the sound made by indicator lights, something that sounds like two wooden spoons hitting together. The glove box is bigger, but the trunk isn’t and rear seats are no roomier and as cramped as they always have been, unless you opt for the more welcoming extended wheelbase version (Vanden Plas) and its wider doors.Tradition-lovers will soon console themselves after they’ve spent a few minutes behind the wheel of a Jaguar sedan powered by a V8 engine. Out of respect for the firm’s engine experts who worked tirelessly to improve the in-line six- cylinder, it should be pointed out that the unit had reached its true peak. Quieter and smoother, the V8 has no trouble handling this sedan’s weight, even if it does exceed two tons. And on a decidedly modernistic note, the engine is teamed up with an excellent five-speed automatic transmission. Divine. As for handling, it has improved significantly since all mechanical features - or almost all - have been reviewed. The steering system is still as precise and the front suspension is all-new, in deference to the new engine choice. Not bad to begin with, but even better: brakes now have more power and are helped along by an improved ABS system. And the XJR? The most gifted and sportiest model in the lineup is loyal to the supercharged 4.0-litre V8 version that gives this Jaguar better performance capabilities. However, motorists should keep in mind that the XJR doesn’t have the same level of refinement or the same performance capabilities (in the broadest sense of the term) as the E55 (Mercedes) and especially the M5 (BMW), its two closest rivals.

PROS
Elegant and distinct styling
Smooth V8
Significantly improved manufacturing quality

CONS
High fuel consumption
Shallow trunk
Uncomfortable seat cushions