What Is It?
2005 Jaguar XJ Long Wheelbase
What's Special About It?
Redesigned in 2004, the Jaguar XJ sedans were initially introduced as a short-wheelbase model only. For 2005, Jaguar adds the big daddy long-wheelbase versions as well. With a new 124.4-inch wheelbase and 205.3-inch overall length (that's five inches longer than the short-wheelbase version), the XJ long-wheelbase series boasts the longest Jaguar ever built. The big Jags come in three styles: the XJ8L, the even more luxurious XJ Vanden Plas and, returning after a two-year absence from the XJ lineup, the top-of-the-line XJ Super V8 model with a powerful 390-horsepower supercharged engine and Brembo disc brakes.
The new stretched XJ is just 44 pounds heavier than the standard car and its rear legroom and headroom measurements are rated best in class. There's a choice of rear-seating configurations including a fixed bench or a power-adjustable bench and, to keep its look on par with its length, the XJ LWB also receives a new grille treatment and new, larger diameter wheel designs.
What's Edmunds' Take?
Sure, it's longer than its BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lexus LS 430 competitors, but with its precise steering and mostly lightweight aluminum body, the extended XJ-Series may actually be considered nimble by comparison — especially when noted that the LS 430 is nearly eight inches shorter than the XJ8L but approximately 150 pounds heavier. And if you don't believe a car designed more for chauffeur duty than spirited performance driving can really move, just put your foot onto the pedal of the XJ Super V8. — Kelly Stennick
2005 Jaguar XJ Long Wheelbase
What's Special About It?
Redesigned in 2004, the Jaguar XJ sedans were initially introduced as a short-wheelbase model only. For 2005, Jaguar adds the big daddy long-wheelbase versions as well. With a new 124.4-inch wheelbase and 205.3-inch overall length (that's five inches longer than the short-wheelbase version), the XJ long-wheelbase series boasts the longest Jaguar ever built. The big Jags come in three styles: the XJ8L, the even more luxurious XJ Vanden Plas and, returning after a two-year absence from the XJ lineup, the top-of-the-line XJ Super V8 model with a powerful 390-horsepower supercharged engine and Brembo disc brakes.
The new stretched XJ is just 44 pounds heavier than the standard car and its rear legroom and headroom measurements are rated best in class. There's a choice of rear-seating configurations including a fixed bench or a power-adjustable bench and, to keep its look on par with its length, the XJ LWB also receives a new grille treatment and new, larger diameter wheel designs.
What's Edmunds' Take?
Sure, it's longer than its BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lexus LS 430 competitors, but with its precise steering and mostly lightweight aluminum body, the extended XJ-Series may actually be considered nimble by comparison — especially when noted that the LS 430 is nearly eight inches shorter than the XJ8L but approximately 150 pounds heavier. And if you don't believe a car designed more for chauffeur duty than spirited performance driving can really move, just put your foot onto the pedal of the XJ Super V8. — Kelly Stennick
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