These cars are quick. Even the base model, if it's fair to call it that, with its 294-horsepower V8 engine can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.3 seconds, according to Jaguar. The V8 engine delivers good low-end torque so power is instantly available. And it offers good fuel economy for the class, with an EPA-rated 18/28 mpg City/Highway.

Shifting is seamless thanks to the six-speed automatic transmission. Jaguar's J-gate transmission allows you to flick the lever to the left and manually shift gears, if you wish. In reality, there's enough power and the electronic brain controlling the gearbox does such a good job that shifting manually seems superfluous.

The XJR and Super V8 add a supercharger that forces air into the engine, producing 390 horsepower. This propels the XJR from 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds, according to Jaguar, very quick indeed. These rocket ships also get a stiffer suspension, bigger brakes and fat 19-inch tires that grip the road and sharpen the steering response. Amazingly, the ride is not too harsh despite the short sidewalls. But it is the whine of the supercharger as you press the gas pedal that sets the XJR and Super V8 apart from the rest of the pack. Previously the XJR was penalized with the gas-guzzler tax, but no more, and even the larger Super V8 faces no such penalty.

Brakes on the XJ models are powerful yet smooth. The XJ has the same electronic parking brake that first appeared in the 2003 S-Type. A small lever is pulled to set it and it's automatically deactivated when drive or reverse is engaged, an elegant setup.

Summary

The Jaguar XJ series are comparable to the best luxury cars in the world. As expected of Jaguar's flagship, the XJ is a beautiful car that swaths its occupants in traditional British luxury with rich wood and leather while sparing us unnecessary gee-whiz features.

The XJ bodyshell is made entirely from aluminum. Lighter and stiffer, the XJ monocoque is more like an airplane's fuselage than a traditional car body. Its rigid chassis and sophisticated suspension offer a smooth ride and impressively good grip. The new long-wheelbase versions offer more interior without trade-offs.

Model Line Overview

Model lineup:Jaguar XJ8 ($60,830); XJ8 L ($62,830); Vanden Plas ($70,330); XJR ($75,330); Super 8 ($89,330)

Engines:294-hp 4.2-liter dohc 32-valve V8; 390-hp supercharged 4.2-liter dohc 32-valve V8

Transmissions:6-speed automatic

Safety equipment (standard):dual front airbags, front side curtain airbags, anti-lock brake system (ABS), emergency brake assist, adaptive restraint technology system (ARTS), dynamic stability control, traction control, rear park distance control

Safety equipment (optional):none

Basic warranty:4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled in:Coventry, England