JAGUAR XJ continues to offer the choice of powerful, refined and efficient V8 engines both matched to the advanced ZF six-speed automatic transmission that was the world's first stepped six-speed automatic transmission when it made its debut in the S-TYPE in 2002.

This light, compact unit is perfectly matched to the V8 family's power characteristics, and is also a major contributor to JAGUAR XJ's refinement. It features Bosch Mechatronic shift - an electro-hydraulic shift mechanism incorporated into the main gearbox casing. Its adaptive shift strategy (controlled by the ECU) responds both to road conditions and to the way the car is being driven, providing the smoothest shifts and optimum performance.


DRIVING DYNAMICS

On all naturally aspirated JAGUAR XJs - the XJ8, XJ8 L and Vanden Plas - the diameter of the front rotors is 12.8 inches, with the rear rotors of 11.8 inches in diameter. On superchar ged models, the 'R' Performance barking system employs calipers with enhanced stiffness to deliver even better high-speed braking performance.

All JAGUAR XJ models still feature four-channel Anti-Locking Braking (ABS) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), which complement to the Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems. Traction Control combines engine torque control, to reduce engine torque, and selective rear wheel braking using the ABS system to counteract wheelspin when too much power is applied on a low grip surface. DSC uses engine torque control plus selective braking on all four wheels to counteract either understeer or oversteer if the limits of adhesion are overstepped.

The combination of Jaguar's industry-leading Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) and the double wishbone layout and air springs ensures the classic Jaguar balance of agile handling, outstanding ride comfort and fine steering feel. CATS is an electronic control system that operates by continuously adjusting the damping characteristics to suit the driving conditions - optimizing both ride and handling. These adjustments are seamlessly made by the electronic control unit (ECU) which receives input from a series of sensors.

Both front and rear suspensions are mounted on isolated subframes, with rubber and hydraulic bushes to give precise control with maximum noise and vibration suppression. Pressurized air springs are used rather than conventional steel coils to give ample travel while optimizing the balance between comfort and control. Effective spring stiffness increases with load, to give a consistent ride, and ride height is automatically controlled according to the data supplied by three height sensors. At high cruising speeds, ride height is automatically lowered by 0.6 inches to enhance stability, minimize aerodynamic drag and maximize fuel economy.

Dynamically, JAGUAR XJ long wheelbase is uniquely distinguishable from the standard wheelbase car. While gaining interior space it remains compact enough to fit into an average-sized garage, and to handle the tight spaces of multi-level parking structures. Its turning circle is a tight 39.5 feet that out-maneuvers the competition.

Even with the additional five inches, the aluminum alloy monocoque shell retains its exceptional stiffness and light weight allowing the long wheelbase models to have the same highly-acclaimed ride, handling balance and steering feel as the standard wheelbase model.


JAGUAR XJ SAFETY

The target in developing the aluminum-intensive JAGUAR XJ was to produce one of the world's safest cars.

Building on the solid active safety foundations of excellent handling, road-holding, braking and stability, JAGUAR XJ is equipped with Jaguar's Adaptive Restraint Technology System (A.R.T.S.).

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