2016 Jaguar XJ Revealed With New Autobiography and R-Sport Models

Jaguar has revealed the 2016 model year XJ which features updated styling, engines, and cabin features. Also, additional variants have been added to the line-up including the top-of-the-range Autobiography and R-Sport models.

On the outside, the design has merely undergone a subtle update, now featuring a more upright grille flanked by sculpted chrome blades around the side air intakes. Full LED headlights are now accompanied by J-blade signature daytime running lights which seamlessly change from white to orange when the signal indicators are activated. Similarly, the LED rear lights adopt the J-signature design while a gloss black rear bumper housing the oval exhausts complete the look.

Jaguar has also introduced a new variant referred to as the Autobiography model, available with the long-wheelbase body. The model can be identified by the chrome front bumper intakes and 20-inch Mataiva wheels (Maroa in the UK).

As for the new R-Sport model, it gets a three-piece front splitter, deep side sills, side power vents and rear spoiler. A gloss black finish enhances the grille mesh, rear valance and, as standard in select markets, the window finishers. Wheels are 20" Venom.

Under the hood, the powertrain options consists of diesel and petrol variants ranging from 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder to larger 5.0-litre V8 engines with power outputs starting at the 240PS up to 550PS. Most notable is the uprated 3.0-litre V6 diesel powerplant which now produces 300PS and 700Nm of torque, 25PS/100Nm more than before. All engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission sourced from ZF. The 8HP transmission is offered in two variants for the XJ: the 8HP70 and lighter, more compact 8HP45.

As for driving dynamics, the Jaguar XJ is fitted with a new electric power-assisted steering which is claimed to provide better response while cutting fuel consumption.

Inside, Jaguar’s InControl Touch Pro infotainment system receives an upgrade. The in-house system is powered by a quad-core Intel processor and has 60GB of solid-state drive space with Ethernet network. User interface is handled via the eight-inch capacitive touchscreen that functions in a similar fashion to today’s smartphones. Features of the InControl Touch Pro include route guidance, multiple media input, Commute Mode, and Approach Mode.

Audio playback is done through the 26-speaker, 1,300W Reference sound system developed by British audio experts Meridian. As an option, buyers will be able to specify their XJ with a rear seat entertainment system – two 10.2-inch screens which can display independent sources of media and has smartphone connectivity capability.

Speaking of smartphones, the brand’s InControl app which is available for both Apple and Android smartphones allows users to procure insightful information on their car be it fuel levels, checking whether the doors are locked, and if customers opt for the Premium edition, they can even pre-set the temperature of the car before getting into it.

The Autobiography model receives quilted semi-aniline leather seats with contrasting stitching, a leather headliner, rich oak inlay veneer, and illuminated stainless steel treadplates, air vents and boot finisher. The interior of the R-Sport gains sports seats, R-Sport steering wheel and treadplates, Jet headliner and piano black trim. 

Safety and driver asssistance systems still present include Jaguar’s All-Surface Progress Control (ASPC), traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control with queue assist, closing vehicle sensing, and semi-autonomous park-assist.