Jaguar has updated its XJ first class sedan with a number of enhancements, but the big news is the introduction of a new flagship XJR575 that will join the range when the facelifted model goes on sale towards the end of 2017.

Jaguar has announced a range of updates to its XJ luxury sports sedan that will arrive in South Africa late in 2017.

The facelifted XJ lineup will welcome the range-topping XJR575, powered by a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 with 423 kW and 700 Nm of torque. With All-Surface Progress Control (ASPC), the XJR575 is claimed to accelerate from 0to 100 kph in 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 300 kph.

Buyers will have the choice of 2 exterior colours for the XJR575 including Velocity Blue and Satin Corris Grey. The model is distinguished by a rear spoiler, side sills, lower air intakes with gloss black surrounds, twin bonnet louvres, updated exterior badging and 20-inch Farallon gloss-black wheels with red brake callipers.

The interior features embossed tread plates and diamond-quilted upholstery offered in either Jet, Jet and Ivory or Jet colour options with 575 branding.

Key features

A larger 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with 4G WiFi will be offered on the updated XJ luxury sports sedan.

The XJ will be offered in both short wheelbase and long wheelbase format. The lineup has been enhanced with improved connectivity with 4G Wi-Fi that can connect up to 8 devices. A larger, 10-inch touchscreen has been fitted and offers better clarity, improved functionality and is equipped with satellite navigation.

Safety has also been enhanced with the addition of Forward Traffic Detection, Lane Keep Assist and a Driver Condition Monitor. Other useful features include adaptive cruise control with Queue Assist, Reverse Traffic Detection, Blind Spot Monitoring 360-degree surround camera system and semi-automated parking assist.

The interior features a variety of handcrafted veneer throughout the cabin while the 3-spoke leather steering wheel adds a sporty touch. A full-width panoramic sunroof extends over the rear passenger seats and sports seats with adjustable bolsters for improved lateral support are offered on the XJR575.

The long wheelbase XJ features 2 reclining ‘airline style’ rear seats with cushion and squab adjustment, 3 massage programs, lumbar adjustments and 2 memory settings. A Rear Seat Entertainment package offers two 10.2-inch high-resolution screens that provide a variety of entertainment and functionality for rear seat passengers. The long wheelbase derivative also has rear leather business tables allowing you to work on the go.

Engine power

The XJR575 will offer 423 kW and 700 Nm of torque from its supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine.

The Jaguar XJ employs a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine with 221 kW and 700 Nm of torque enabling a claimed zero to 100 kph sprint to 100 kph in 6.2 seconds. Jaguar claims a fuel consumption figure of 7.0 L/100 km.

The petrol-powered XJ uses a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 offering 250 kW and 450 Nm of torque. As mentioned previously, the XJR575 features a 423 kW/700 Nm supercharged 5.0-litre V8, but this engine is also available with 375 kW and 625 Nm of torque. All engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic ZF transmission.

A total of 6 derivatives will make up the XJ lineup including the XJ Luxury, XJ Premium Luxury, XJ Portfolio, XJ R-Sport, XJR575 and the XJ Autobigraphy.

Local specification and pricing for the updated Jaguar XJ will be communicated closer to its launch later in 2017, so stay tuned for more details.

Watch Jaguar XJR575 hit 300 kph in the video below!

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