XJ - Jaguar's new flagship, launched!

The XJ is a culmination of Jaguar's new design philosophy that has led the revival of what was a dying brand. The new design theme is a modern interpretation of the quintessential Jaguar keeping the XJ as recognisable as any of the older models that came before it. The highlight of the XJ's visual appeal comes from the teardrop shaped side windows and a powerful stance that is further accentuated by the wide track. A huge contribution to the low-slung profile of the XJ comes from the panoramic glass roof which has enabled Ian Cullum's design team at Jaguar to lower the roofline considerably without compromising on giving passengers a feeling of roominess and space.

Right from the word Go the Jaguar XJ is available in both standard as well as extended wheelbase versions with prices starting at ? 52,500 for the base variant with a 3 litre V6 engine. Customers opting for the long wheelbase models will get all of 125mm of legroom more than the standard wheelbase customers. Both versions will sport a 520 litre boot though - enough to carry two big suitcases and some more. Every Jaguar is special and the XJ gets interior trims never seen before on anything from the big cat. Three levels - Luxury, Premium Luxury and Portfolio - empower customers to tailor their interiors to suit their individual tastes. Those looking for something even more special will get the options of Supercharged and Supersport that includes leather roof lining, semi-aniline leather seats and veneers with laser inserts! Chrome and piano black detailing make for an attractive and sporty contrast to all that leather and veneer at the same time keeping Jaguar's racing history in sight as well.

Jaguar has made the activity of driving the XJ more like a living-at-home experience with loads of technology bottled up in the cabin. 12.3 high definition virtual instruments complimenting a 8-inch dual view touchscreen allow the passenger to enjoy DVD movies while the driver gets to access vehicle information or the navigation system. The XJ gets a top-of-the-line 1200W Bowers & Wilkins audio system along with hard-drive based audio and navigation and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub.

Elevating all that style to heights of scintillating performance are a wide choice of engines that range from the 3 litre V6 diesel to 5 litre naturally aspirated and 5 litre supercharged V8s. In addition to these, the XJ will also have a 470 horsepower version of the supercharged V8 for those who want a little extra oomph under the bonnet. Making the act of putting all that power to tarmac a pleasurable one are a host of Jaguar's techno-wizardries - air suspension, adaptive dynamics (continuously variable damping), active differential control and quick ratio power steering.

The Jaguar XJ is not just about sheer opulence and performance - it is environment friendly too. The engines are fuel efficient and the car is manufactured using Jaguar's aerospace inspired aluminium body technology. With 50% recycled material used and a lifecycle approach to its manufacturing process, the XJ has a minimal carbon footprint. The XJ is the latest brick in the new Jaguar wall of uncompromising vehicles that are luxurious and sporty, powerful and refined. Deliveries of the first XJs will start early 2010 in the UK. With the launch of the Jaguar brand in India recently and the company's plans to get new models to the country as well, expect Tata Motors to announce the XJ for the Indian market soon.