FYI - the previous Xj (350-358...2003-2009 in U.S. years) was a retro design and it did not do well sales wise. However, it was a great (still is) and glorious car!

I ALWAYS said Jaguar should launch a HERITAGE body style for the XJ alongside any new design it had in mind to marry both new and old buyers. There is no sin committed in that move. I actually applaud the retro design moves by jaguar some 13 years ago - the consumer did not buy it - nor did the critics then...buy now everybody wants it...how droll...people...get clear on what you want your brand to be , then support it!!!

Please buy more Jags...as they are GREAT cars!

I bought a Cadillac - my 3rd in 10 years - because they did just what I asked! Jaguar is a parallel brand. OWN YOUR FUTURE! DEFINE YOUR CUSTOMER and SELL SELLL SELL!!!!

Happy 2015 everyone!

 

I meant 350-359 XJ Series...my apologies (no 358)!

 

I think the opportunity here (for Jaguar) is less about "style" and more about "rear passenger space / comfort". While I am in the camp of believing the current XJ has a destinctive / unique and attractive style - I am not a fan of the low roof / cramped head space and somewhat difficult entry / exit it creates for rear passengers.

In addition to my own critique - I understand that a key to success for luxury sales in China is rear seat space.

I think China is what is driving any decision to add another version to the line.

As for me - I would welcome a more limo like Jag option (a la S-Class) and the improved ergonomics for my guests that should deliver.

 

...And for the record.... YES I have ridden in the back of a current XJL. Leg space it has. Head space it does not.

 

I'll have to take a seat in the back of an XJ--I am only 5'7" but one of the reasons I'd get an XJ is for the rear seat room for passengers!

I got in one a while back during a couple test drives but did not pay much attention.

 

 

I have to wonder how different the X351 and X350 are in the back seat. I see at least a few shared parts, and the chassis are both aluminum and probably highly related, right? Could the sloping roofline of the X351 just be visual trickery, and not have much impact on the actual space on the inside?

 

Some of us recall that the XJ used to come in 2 sizes. The XJL and the regular XJ, which was standard in the XJRs. The XJLs had an additional 5" in the back seat area.


I always opted for the shorter version as it seemed to be a more "balanced" pleasing design. So why not 2 versions of the current XJ? 1 with the fast back and the other with a more traditional boot a la the Chrysler 300.


BY the BY: Mr Moderator, the folks over in the late model XJ Forum may be interested in this Thread as well.

 

Agreed.

Unless I am living in Asia, I will be driving myself. The long wheel base is pointless for most use. The older XJ's had odd shaped rear doors when compared side-by-side to the normal wheel base model.