The 2014 XJ sedan finally achieves all the potential of this iconic luxury->ke505 brand with long-wheelbase, all-wheel-drive or even supercharged versions that match buyer priorities and also Jaguar->ke39's inherent sportiness.

The previous XJ sedans have all been brilliant at one or two of the executive limo buyer's checklist areas, including style and interior panache. At different times, the previous XJR was hilariously fast and full of roaring character. But never has the XJ offered buyers such a wide swath of excellence in body styles, technology, style and performance.

The XJ really snapped to attention on the sales charts with the 2013 inclusion of a new 3.0-liter, supercharged V-6 and AWD grip near the base $74,000 configuration. This not only catapults the XJ into consideration for Audi->ke14 and Lexus->ke47 buyers, but it also improves the previous standard V-8's mileage stats.

So like a chorus or an orchestra, all the instruments in the Jaguar->ke39 symphony finally seem to be playing the same some. And it is a catchy tune with the XJ's beautiful nose and subtle styling that is a perfect match for the ultra-limo segment's discerning buyers.

A brief sample of the 2014 XJ L 3.0 AWD was enough to take in its liquid curves, attractive nose detailing, and a cabin so full of leather that it smells like the inside of a Burberry purse.

Click past the jump for the full TopSpeed Driven review of the 2014 Jaguar XJ L 3.0 AWD, including photos of the huge back seat and details about the entire XJ lineup.

2014 Jaguar XJL AWD

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Jaguar XJL AWD
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 340 @ 6500
  • Torque: 332 @ 3500
  • Transmission: 8-speed auto
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The Jaguar XJ is still a very attractive sedan, even in its third year on the market. Detail tweaks to the grilles and LED lighting have enhanced its look considerably, as have the dozens of wheel and color choices outside.

The chrome effect of the test car's grille is a little bright for some tastes, but it's matched with lower bumper detailing in the same finish.

2014 Jaguar->ke39 XJ L Portfolio 3.0 AWD - Profile Styling Detail

The dark blue paint of the tester also hides -- somewhat -- one of the XJ's most curious styling features.

The standard blacked-out D-pillar is an unusual touch, but really is quite attractive and simple in person. On this LWB version, there is also some extra flab in the body-sides from the rear three-quarter angle, but the extra backseat space is worth it.

2014 Jaguar->ke39 XJ L Portfolio 3.0 AWD - Tail Styling Detail

In back, the Jag is defined by its vertical lights with triple scratches of vertical LED brake lights.

2014 Jaguar->ke39 XJ L Portfolio 3.0 AWD - Standard Exterior Features

- LED rear lights

- Twin tailpipes with chrome finishers

- Chrome side power vents

- Xenon headlights

- Heated rear window with timer

- Solar attenuating, hydrophobic and acoustically laminated glass

- Power-opening and closing trunk lid

- Rain sensing windscreen wipers

- Heated electric exterior mirrors

- Blind Spot Monitor

- Rear parking aid

- Front parking aid

- Rear parking camera

- XJL logo on the left side of trunk lid

Wheel Options Detail

Interior

The interior is a heavenly cocoon in a loud and crowded world.

Immaculate surfaces, an incredible steering wheel, and all the tech imaginable is built into the Jaguar XJ from the start.

The low dash cowl creates a fabulous open environment inside the front cabin that is rare in this segment.

Moonroof Detail

In back, room to really spread out is joined by window shades and some of the classiest wood and leather detailing outside of Bentley's Works buildings.

2014 Jaguar->ke39 XJ L Portfolio 3.0 AWD - Standard Features

- Soft grain leather sport-style front seats, heated and cooled (active ventilated) with 18 way driver and passenger electric adjustment. Including fore/aft, cushion height and tilt, seat back recline and 4-way lumbar support

- Softgrain leather heated and cooled rear bench

- Four-zone automatic climate control

- Manual rear side sunblinds

- 5 extra inches of rear seat leg room

- Jaguar premium analog clock

- Panoramic glass roof

- Three-flash lane change indicators

- Front and rear footwell lights

- Phosphor blue lighting

- Automatic internal lights

- JaguarSense -- glovebox and overhead console light operation

- Five trunk runners

- Driver's foot rest

- Illuminated mirrors for rear seats

- "Jaguar" intaglio

- Illuminated front storage tray

- Stainless Steel tread plates

2014 Jaguar->ke39 XJ L Portfolio 3.0 AWD - Multimedia Standard Features

- Meridian Audio System – 380W with single slot CD/DVD

- iTech System – integrates the virtual instruments, HD touch-screen, audio, interactive voice and Media Hub

- Virtual Instruments – 12.3” LCD instrument cluster display

- Interactive Voice

- Bluetooth v2.0 audio streaming

- Hard Drive Navigation System

- SIRIUS Satellite Radio (Includes 3 mo. complimentary subscription)

- HD Radio

- Two auxiliary power points

- Hard Drive to store up to 10 uncompressed CDs

- USB port in center console

- 8" full color touchscreen

- CD/DVD player

Back Seat Detail

Back Seat Climate Unit and Plug Detail

Trunk Detail

Performance Feel Analysis

The XJ in this AWD configuration felt just as nimble and lively as its rear-drive predecessors.

Utter silence is and light steering is the strongest first impression, with world-class refinement and handling the second thing most drivers will appreciate.

2014 Jaguar XJ L Portfolio 3.0 AWD - Mechanical Features

- All-wheel drive

- Eight-speed electronic automatic transmission

- JaguarDrive Control with Winter Mode and Dynamic Mode

- JaguarDrive Selector

- Jaguar Sequential Shift with wheel mounted shift paddles

- Dynamic Stability Control

- Electric parking brake

- Adaptive Dynamics

- Automatic Speed Limiter

- Rear air suspension

- Intelligent Stop/Start

2014 Jaguar->ke39 XJ - Mechanical Details

Pricing and Availability

The 2014 Jaguar->ke39 XJ AWD is available from about $77,000 before options, while the long-wheelbase XJ L comes in with approximately an $83,000 base price.

This is near the low end versus the XJ L Ultimate with a $155,000 price tag.

Safety

2014 Jaguar->ke39 XJ L Portfolio 3.0 AWD - Safety and Security Features

- Security system

- Tire pressure monitoring

- Front airbags

- Front-seat whiplash protection

- Seat belt minder system (front and rear)

- Front side airbags

- Front and Rear side curtain airbags

Conclusion

The Jaguar XJ is one of the smartest options for brand-savvy executives who are bored with the usual from BMW, Audi and Mercedes.

By adding this efficient and AWD V-6 engine, Jaguar deserves some conquest sales from Lexus, Bentley and Cadillac as well.