Hey guys,

I am in the market for a Jaguar as the titles suggests... I am choosing between either a base 2012 or Supercharged 2011. I am really stuck on this right now as both are around the same price. I like the engine of the 2011 obviously but the look of the 2012.... But of course the 2012 Supercharged is well out of my price range... What do you suggest I take into consideration in my decision?

Thanks in advanced

 

Hi 'Jaggy' - it's a good choice to have! I would look at five factors if I were you:

1) The engine. supercharged models are outstanding to drive and incredible power - although you won't be disappointed with the 5L V8 either
2) Exterior styling - as you say some facelift improvements in 2012 - in my view front looks better but I prefer rear of the pre-2012 cars. Changes are relatively small so really depends on your taste
3) Audio and nav - improved systems 2012 onwards - although to be honest I don't think there's that much difference, both work well and both are a bit clunky... On the 2011 SC you'll get the B&W upgraded sound system which is terrific - I assume the 2012 base has a standard system, so you might find the 2011 to be better here
4) Spec - you should compare the SC model (which is very well equipped in all areas) to the base which will depend on what packages / extras they selected.
5) Wheels - likely 20inch staggered (Selena or similar) on the 2011 SC, whereas the 2012 prob has the base 18inch wheels unless it was upgraded

If it were me, I'd go 2011 to get the Supercharged as I think the engine far outweighs the other elements above, and I like the B&W sound system. But that's a very personal choice for you. I'd say drive both and see what fits with your driving style

Let us know what you decide!

 

Also remember the 2011 Supercharged has the same suspension and brakes as the XFR, which are both quite good.

If you're planning on getting snow tires, know that the brakes are very large and you'll have to get 20's to fit.

 

Thank you for your input! I've decided on the 2011 Supercharged because the other salesman sold the 2012 after I put down my deposit but its A-Ok it probably was a sign. I finish up the paperwork on Wednesday DD

Thanks for your input! I live in Nashville so I don't think snow tires are relevant to me lol. We may get 2 days with over an inch of snow. Thank you though!

 

Good luck - I'm sure you'll love it!

 

Congrats and welcome to the V8 SC club. You will have a hard time going backward from this level of power and features. I really enjoy the stereo in this car and power.

 

Don't forget that 2012 models still have a warranty in effect (which is why I purchased my CPO). Warranty is a really nice safety net to have.

 

The 2011 I am planning on purchasing has the 5 year 50k warranty and was purchased October 2011. Still good for 1 year and 10k miles It does go from purchase date correct?

 

It should go from date of sale unless the car was a "demo" or rental first. If you look on a Carfax, it will tell you the first service date. The Jaguar dealer will be able to tell you as well.

And make sure to go through as many threads as you can to know what issues to look out for. I had so many items fixed before the initial warranty ran out by doing my research. Warranty work was worth about $15K or more in the end. The dash, diff and windshield was most of it but had a rear suspension issue, sunroof clip issues, squeeky steering column, the reading lamp issue.

Funny thing is I've only had one issue (supercharger coolant pump) after the initial run of problems. I blame the previous owner for not doing a damn thing to it for 3 years. Once I caught up, it's been really good.

 

Was it from NJ originally?......

 

No, it was purchased in Palm Springs and lived in Huntington Beach and Newport Beach (at the dealer) until I got it. So Cal all its life.

One nice thing is it allows me to pump my own gas.