One of the most iconic sedans ever produced, the Jaguar XJ is celebrating 50 years in 2018. And the British firm launched a special anniversary model at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show. Introduced in 2009, the current XJ is the eighth generation of the sedan that served as luxury transportation for many VIPs over the years. Jaguar is celebrating this special event with a handful of add-ons to the vehicle's exterior and cabin. It also modified its badge for the event, renaming it the XJ50.

The XJ goes back all the way to 1968 when it was launched to replace the S-Type and the Mark 2. The first XJ was produced until 1992 with significant upgrades in 1973 and 1979. A complete redesign followed in 1986, with new updates in 1994 and 1997. The previous-generation XJ was unveiled in 2003 and received a facelift in 2007, two years before it was discontinued in 2009. The current model is already nine years old, and a new generation is about to be released. Until that happens, let's take a closer look at this anniversary special edition.

Continue reading to learn more about the Jaguar XJ50.

2018 Jaguar XJ50

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2018 Jaguar XJ50
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 335
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

What makes the Jaguar XJ50 special

- Autobiography bumpers - Black front grille - New 20-inch wheels - Four exterior colors - Diamond-quilted leather - "XJ50" logos - Anodized paddles - 3.0-liter engines only

Available with either a standard or long wheelbase, the XJ50 boasts subdued, tasteful add-ons compared to the standard model. The front fascia benefits from most changes, starting with a black mesh for the grille. The standard bumper was upgraded to Autobiography specs, featuring revised outlets and black grilles.

Onto the sides, we can see a new set of 20-inch wheels that Jaguar calls "Venom." The rear section received a new bumper, also inspired by Autobiography models, with revised chrome work. The color palette is limited to only four hues for this model, including Fuji White, Santorini Black, Loire Blue, and Rosello Red.

The cabin gained a few updates too, including soft-grain, diamond-quilted leather for the seats. Each headrest now features an embossed leaper, while the center armrest is adorned by an "XJ50" logo. The illuminated treadplates also feature "XJ50" lettering, while the gearshift paddles behind the steering have an anodized finish. Finally, the pedals are made from brighter metal.

The engine lineup is limited to only a couple of units. While the regular XJ can be had with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a supercharged, 5.0-liter V-8, the anniversary model is restricted to a pair of 3.0-liter V-6 mills. First up is the supercharged gasoline unit rated at 340 PS (335 horsepower), the most powerful option you get here. The second engine is a 3.0-liter diesel that cranks out 300 PS (296 horsepower). Both models are equipped with automatic transmissions.

There's no word on pricing and availability yet, but the XJ50 should be a global car.

References

Read our full review on the 2017 Jaguar XJ.

Read more Jaguar news.

Read more 2018 Beijing Auto Show news.