Next Generation Jaguar XJ Spied! Aston Martin Rapide Styling, Hybrid Power on the Way?
Though this test mule is clearly wearing the well known bodywork from the current Jaguar XJ sedan, our spy photographer sources seem to believe that this work-in-progress represents the first steps towards an all-new Jag.
Insiders believe that there will be a strong family resemblance between the next generation XJ and Aston Martin’s upcoming Rapide, with the two cars allegedly sporting very similar greenhouses. Look for the XJ to wear a shorter nose than the sleek Rapide though, with a front end something akin to the current XF. The upcoming Jag should also have a traditional truck in place of the Aston’s hatchback configuration.
This next generation XJ could also be the first Jaguar car ever to be offered with a hybrid engine option to go along with an entry-level V-6 mill, several V-8s, as well as diesel choices. Take a look at the early test mule images in our gallery above, or scroll down below to read the shooter’s own words.
The new Jaguar XJ, a cheaper Rapide?
While Jaguar is still testing the next generation XJ under the old body, some rumours are leaking out about the design. Insiders who have seen the car are talking about a lot of Aston Martin Rapide influences in the XJ. Especially the greenhouse (between the A and C pillar) is very like.
But where the Aston has its long sleek nose, the Jaguars will be shorter and look more like the XF nose. The back will also be more conventional saloon, instead of the Astons hatchback.
The new XJ could also be the first Jaguar to be offered as a hybrid in addition to the supercharged V8 in the top version. Expect an entry level V6 engine together with midrange V8 and turbodiesel engines.
Comments
mo
jaguar still exist. I am sure that Top Gear will test it and say "this is the best luxury car in the world, it is smashing".
Mena
I'm still waiting for them to actually redesign this car.
Darel Parker
The XF style grill looks great on an XF. On an XJ, it looks absolutely dreadful.
Old jags have charm
If you refer to the grille in the spy photo, then do not fret. That is not what the production vehicle will sport, that is a cobbled version of the old XJ grille.
Stephen Chua
My first and last favourite XJ was the old 4.2 of 1981. And I'm still seeing clones of it today. Ordinarily, I'd just declare that as the timelessness of that old design, but really, they have become far less charming since then (the XJ)and most of the intervening designs were terribly unreliable too.
I'm really waiting for a great fresh design (and great reliability) at last for the XJ or shall we call it TATA? In any case, TATA or Ford, it's still a Jag. If they get it really right this time, maybe I'll get another. The first one was certainly good for the memories.
Anonymous
Jaguar has been the most reliable Euro Lux sedan for at least the last 9 years. Look it up in Initial quality reports on JD Power since 1999. Right now Jag is rate #8 in the world overall in long term dependability of all
38 major car brands. So get your story straight
Bard Thomas
There's really not much to comment on, the spied vehicle being a semi disguised X350. The speculation about the new XJ sharing design features with Aston Martin - like the XK range has done since birth - certainly bares promise of supercars being made available for "the masses", in good Jaguar tradition; value for money!
I have yet to find a Jaguar that is not a work of art, at least in some aspects...
Post new comment