The Jaguar XJ has been updated for the 2014 model year, benefitting primarily from equipment upgrades.
Jaguar's Intelligent Start-Stop system is now included across the range, with the manufacturer claiming that the time taken to restart the engine is less than the time taken for the driver's foot to move from the brake to the accelerator. The car has a secondary battery fitted purely to power the start-stop system.
Inside, long-wheelbase versions of the new XJ get airline-style reclining rear seats with a massage function, plus increased headroom and a new infotainment system. The rear suspension of the LWB XJ has also been upgraded to improve rear ride comfort.
A unique addition to the Jaguar, which is part of the upgraded audio system, is the 'Conversation Assist' feature. It uses microphones above each occupant and uses processing technology to 'reinforce' the occupant's voice through the car's speakers, making it easier for occupants to hear each other.
The luxury saloon will continue to be offered with a range of petrol and diesel 3.0-litre V6 engines, as well as two 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engines.
With 542bhp the XJR is the top variant in the new range. Already driven by Autocar, the XJR features a bespoke chassis with new aerodynamic options. The upgrades allow the XJR to achieve 0-100kph in 4.4sec and a limited top speed of 280kph.
An eight-speed automatic transmission will be the standard fit throughout the line-up, with Jaguar re-working gear ratios to offer what it says is a "perfectly balanced combination of smooth-shifting, economy and driver control."
Rivals for Jaguar's updated XJ include the Mercedes S-class, Masertati Quattroporte, Audi A8 and the BMW 7-series.