Old English luxury cars

The 2015 Jaguar XJL is a big, beautiful sedan built in the tradition of this storied English automaker. The XJ is beset with wood, leather, and fine appointments that perfectly match its smooth, luxurious drive and well-mannered aplomb. As a surprise to most, however, the supercharged six-cylinder engine returns far better fuel economy than might be expected from a big, luxurious car like the XJL.

The manufacturer says

The XJ boasts the ideal combination of a dynamic driving experience and a refined, luxurious interior created to entice the senses. With its strong yet lightweight aluminum body, the XJ provides surprising agility and superlative handling, while a panoramic glass roof adds to the spaciousness and drama of its thoroughly contemporary design.

Specs:

• Manufacturer: Jaguar
• Year, Model: 2015 XJL
• Class, Type: Luxury sedan
• Propulsion system: 3.0L V6, 8spd auto
• Base Price: $74, 200
• MSRP as tested: $87, 275
• Availability: Now

Overview

The Jaguar XJ series is offered in several model types, each denoting the car’s wheelbase and fit and finish. The XJL, as we drove it, is the longer-wheelbase option with two trim points. The V6 Supercharged was our trim point while the Portfolio, aimed more at the executive sedan class rather than the daily driver sedan we had, sits above that.

No matter the trim point, the exterior of the 2015 XJL is stunning. It mixes old world grace with a modern appeal. The long hood ends in a low windscreen and coupe-like body to a clipped rear end. It engenders a feeling of motion throughout.

The interior of the XJL is just as stunning, featuring some of the most well-made seating you’ll ever experience. Our test vehicle even included the optional massage units which gives a massage along the back muscles to the driver and front passenger. The interior is very roomy and the trunk is a good size. The driver-centric cockpit is well-designed and a curve of wood flows around the cabin from the top of the dashboard around to behind the rear doors.

Under the hood, the 2015 Jaguar XJL features a supercharged V6 displacing 3.0 liters and outputting 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission smoothly shifts through the gears and the car is available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive. Either makes for an engaging, smooth cruise on any open highway. Two V8 engine options are available as well.

Fuel economy with the V6 is 19 mpg combined, with 16 in the city and 24 on the highway. Our overall was about 23 mpg total in a driving mix heavy in highway use.

What we like

Excellent build quality and smooth operation.

Good fuel economy despite the high power output and large size of the car.

What we don't

Pricey, though that is probably expected.

Conclusions

The 2015 Jaguar XJL is exudes elegance and fine motoring. It has a beautiful road presence, powerful engine, and timeless look yet returns respectable fuel economy as well.

Test Period Length and Limitations
The Jaguar XJL was a manufacturer’s press loan to use for about a week, during which time we put 508 elegant miles on the car. Most of those miles were highway and freeway driving.