Overview

What Changed for 2009:

• Standard DVD-based navigation system on XJ8 and XJ8L models
• Standard 320-watt Alpine Premium Surround Sound system
• Standard front Park Control
• New XJ Portfolio model
• Two new exterior colors for the XJ Portfolio

Overview
The 2009 iteration of the Jaguar XJ, which was first introduced in 2003, was restyled in 2008, so changes for this year are minor. Jaguar does add a Portfolio edition for the XJ, which includes more standard equipment as well as special features unique to that trim. Jaguar XJ's competition includes the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Model Lineup
The 2009 Jaguar XJ lineup includes six models: XJ8, XJ8L, XJ Vanden Plas, XJR, XJ Super V8 and XJ Portfolio. Standard equipment on the XJ8 includes 18-inch Tucana wheels; electrochromic self-dimming power-adjustable heated door mirrors; premium softgrain front and rear leather seats with piping; 16-way adjustable front seats with 3-stage heating; power-adjustable pedals and steering column with memory; and a one-touch power moonroof. The XJ8L adds a longer wheelbase (longest in its class), and more interior headroom than any vehicle in its class, according to Jaguar. The XJ Vanden Plas adds lambswool rugs, Peruvian boxwood inlays, 19-inch Carelia wheels, front park control, and an optional multi-media entertainment system.The XJR moves up to the 400-hp supercharged V-8 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. It also includes a leather-wrapped "R" performance steering wheel and chrome and leather "R" performance gearshift knob; 20-inch Cremona wheels; and radar-based adaptive cruise control. The XJ Super V8 includes all the Vanden Plas amenities; the 400-hp V-8 supercharged engine; and standard multi-media entertainment, navigation and premium sound. The XJ Portfolio differs from other XJ models with a unique exterior and interior appearance that includes 20-inch Selena-style wheels, two exclusive exterior paint colors, Portfolio badges throughout the interior, chrome mirror caps, and Sirius Satellite radio.

Powertrain
The standard powertrain in the 2009 XJ8, XJ8L and XJ Vanden Plas is a 4.2-liter, 300-hp all-aluminum V-8 with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The XJR, XJ Super V8 and Portfolio have a supercharged, 4.2-liter, 400-hp, all-aluminum V-8 engine, also with the 6-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy estimates for the supercharged engine are 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway. The standard 4.2-liter, 300-hp engine is rated at 16 mpg city and 25 mpg highway EPA.

Safety
The 2009 Jaguar XJ features safety items such as traction control; anti-lock brakes; dynamic stability control; tire-pressure-monitoring system; emergency brake assist; adaptive restraint technology that includes driver and front passenger air bags and side curtain air bags; and pre-tensioned 3-point safety belts for all seating positions. The 2009 Jaguar XJ has not been rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for front or side crash tests or for rollover testing.

Technology
The 2009 Jaguar XJ Super V8 and Portfolio models include rain-sensing wipers; an electronic parking brake; adaptive cruise control; a central console with 7-inch color touchscreen that offers DVD navigation, Bluetooth wireless technology (enabling five mobile phones to connect to the car's in-car phone system), plus audio and climate control; a premium 12-speaker, 320-watt Alpine sound system; available Sirius satellite radio; and multi-media entertainment with twin seatback screens for games and DVDs. Jaguar Voice activation and an iPod connectivity module are dealer-installed accessories.