JAGUAR XJ also offers available multi-media connectivity for MP3 and DVD players, digital memory media, personal gaming systems, with the option of 6.5-inch displays in the backs of the front seat head restraints, and independent input points for two rear seat passengers.

Added space allows a variety of rear seating configurations. The layout for JAGUAR XJ8 L and Vanden Plas is a full width, three-passenger bench seat. The Super V8 features a three-passenger bench with four-way power adjustment for the two outer seat positions, and the front passenger seat can be moved forward from the rear seat behind it for even more legroom.

Both seat configurations are available with a rear-controlled, four-zone climate control system (standard on Super V8).


ALUMINUM - SLIMMING DOWN

The standard wheelbase version of this seventh generation XJ sedan broke new ground when

it went on sale in 2003, as a 2004 model year car. For the first time ever, the complete body structure of the XJ sedan was manufactured from aluminum alloy.

Aluminum alloy is notable for its high strength and low weight, but it isn't a new material for Jaguar. From its earliest days as a car manufacturer, Jaguar has used many forms of light alloy in its vehicles and components. In JAGUAR XJ, however, Jaguar uses it in a unique and innovative way.

Unlike other aluminum-alloy-bodied cars, which typically use unstressed outer panels over a separate chassis, JAGUAR XJ's body shell uses conventional, stressed skin, monocoque construction. By employing advanced assembly techniques from the aerospace industry, including adhesive bonding and self-piercing rivets, JAGUAR XJ uses lightweight aluminum alloys rather than steel, as its principal body material.

In effect, riveting is used in a similar way to spot welding on a steel shell, and adhesive bonding is used in a similar way to seam welding. Using both together produces immensely strong, durable joints and a lightweight bodyshell with exceptional torsional stiffness. In addition, the latest forming, casting, machining and extrusion processes have further increased the possibilities offered by both aluminum and magnesium alloys, for maximum strength with minimum weight.

With this lightweight monocoque construction, any new JAGUAR XJ sedan is some 180 lbs lighter than the equivalent model from the previous generation, and significantly stronger. This has a very beneficial effect on power-to-weight ratio, which is a major factor in almost all aspects of vehicle performance. Reducing a vehicle's weight (without compromising its strength) will improve its performance for the same power output. That not only improves straight-line performance and especially acceleration, but by allowing the engine to work less hard it also improves fuel consumption. Lower weight reduces the energy involved in any impact, and also improves braking performance. This benefits subjective areas such as ride comfort, handling agility and steering feel - all of which are core elements in the defining character of any Jaguar.

Other advantages are inherent in these materials and in Jaguar's unique construction method. The treated alloy panels are highly corrosion-resistant, for long life, with a six-year anti-corrosion limited warranty. Jaguar uses them in such a way as to minimize repair costs in the event of accident damage.

The deformable aluminum alloy front structure can withstand an impact of up to 10 mph without transferring damage to the main shell. It is bolted on, so that it can be replaced more quickly and easily if needed. Front fenders as well as trunk and hood lids are bolted on, and the doors feature 'lift-off' hinges - again for easier, more economical, replacement. The shell is also protected by injection-molded front and rear bumpers. All this helps JAGUAR XJ achieve competitive insurance ratings.

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