2014 Jaguar XJ AWD VIDEO REVIEW

2014 Jaguar XJ AWD – VIDEO REVIEW:

For years now, Jaguar’s go-to engine for the powerbrokers has been their supercharged 5.0-liter V-8. But in these times, sometimes less is more. And last year’s introduction of an all-wheel drive system has proven to be popular. And the only way to get it is with V-6 power. This is the 2014 XJ AWD.

In order to sell rear-wheel drive cars in the Snow Belt it’s imperative to offer an all-wheel drive option. And Jag has recently done just that with the XF and XJ sedans. They call it Instinctive All Wheel Drive. It sends most of the torque to the rear wheels in dry-road conditions and then through predictive analysis transfers up to 50% of the torque to the front wheels when needed – this may result from actual slippery conditions or a preemptive switch sensed by various inputs. And when snow is in the way, a winter mode preloads 30% of the grip to the front wheels.

It works through a Jaguar-tuned ZF 8-speed automatic transmission which plants the power via a set of ultra-high performance all-season Pirelli tires.

So if you want the added confidence to drive your XJ year round it’s the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 you must take. You’ll give up 2 cylinders and 130 horsepower but gain 1mpg and 4-wheel control. An auto stop/start system further increases efficiency to 16mpg city/24mpg highway – I guess I must have spent too much time in Sport mode.

If you were concerned that downsizing to the V-6 meant losing that Jaguar thrust let me ease your mind, because this XJ is as eager to run as you’ll ever need.

Its 0-to-60mph time of 6.1-seconds feels even quicker with gobs of power always on tap. Switch into dynamic mode and the XJ goes naughty, fully exploring this big car’s dynamic range which is darn impressive. The steering is excellent and sports sedan direct and the ride quality is still all Jag. Overall, the aluminum-bodied XJ isn’t as hard core as a Panamera but still brings a level of athleticism here that belies its luxurious wraps.

Ever since this current generation was introduced in 2011 the XJ has been the sporty, sensuous choice in the executive sedan segment and I love it. But over that time Jaguar really hasn’t kept up with in-car technology and its absence here is palpable.

The interior is gorgeous. It really is with its own, unique upper dash design using expertly crafted wood, leather and metal trim. The Illumination Package adds lighted door sills and air vents while the Portfolio Package brings vigorous massage services to the front seats, new for 2014 with 5 intensity levels. But as far as any of the new high-tech safety features or super connected infotainment technologies go, the XJ feels years behind its competition. This area is definitely the XJ’s next frontier. You can get this model in LWB form, but even as is, the rear seats are very accommodating for 2 more and provide a theater-style raised vantage point. The quick opening power deck lid reveals one of the largest trunks in the class. The 2014 XJ AWD retails for $78,595 while the one you’re looking at stickers for $84,763.

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