Jaguar’s new XJ6 sees the
resurrection of a famous Jaguar nameplate but above all this seventh
generation XJ6 is the ultimate interpretation of the contemporary
Jaguar. The XJ6 represents the most advanced technology available
today and is wrapped in a luxury package with a class leading 3.0
litre V6 engine.
The XJ6 completes the range
of XJ models available in Australia and joins the three V8 engine
variants launched in the market in 2003: the 3.5 litre V8, 4.2 litre
V8 and 4.2 litre supercharged V8.
It shares the same specifications
as its naturally aspirated siblings including luxury features such
as satellite navigation, television, telephone, premium sound, reverse
park aid, rear multimedia pack and rain-sensing wipers. The XJ impressed
at launch with the use of an aluminium monocoque body replacing
the traditional steel construction creating a luxury saloon that
was longer, taller and wider than the preceding model but most importantly
around 40 percent lighter with increased rigidity.
Jaguar Australia General
Manager David Blackhall says one of the most impressive attributes
of the new XJ6 is that it epitomises Jaguar’s total investment in
technology in recent years.
“The pay-off of that investment
in the XJ6 is the return to the consumer. They are getting the ultimate
in a luxury saloon, with a class leading V6 engine and specifications
that have not been compromised for a price point,” he said. Not
only is the XJ6 the ultimate expression of a Jaguar luxury saloon,
it is also the most advanced Jaguar yet.
Lightweight vehicle
architecture
As with its V8 siblings,
the XJ6 features a lightweight vehicle architecture that is centred
on a conventional monocoque body structure rather than an unnecessarily
exotic space-frame. Jaguar engineers have developed a car that weighs
up to 200 kg less than the outgoing generation.
Referring to a large saloon
as a lightweight vehicle may seem incongruous, but the new XJ fully
deserves – and earns this label. The benefits of a lightweight vehicle
are in place all the time, from the moment the wheels start turning.
In addition to measurables such as fuel economy, emissions and performance,
the subjective issues of handling and ride also feature.
The engineering team led
by Chief Programme Engineer David Scholes chose rivet-bonding to
create a body shell from aluminium instead of steel to meet the
challenge of increasing interior space, but delivering a lighter
vehicle.
“We chose the lightweight
vehicle architecture for the new XJ not because it was something
new,” says David Scholes, “but because it would help us deliver
significant benefits for our customers. Ultimately, they may not
care whether the body structure is aluminium or steel, but the Jaguar
customer does care very much about performance, dynamics, fuel economy,
emissions and safety. So the choice was clear.”
In volume production, the
new Jaguar XJ represents an industry-first use of rivet-bonding
construction of an aluminium-intensive, conventionally structured
monocoque body. Rivet-bonding uses self-piercing rivets and aerospace
epoxy adhesives for strength, robustness and durability, when joining
aluminium pressings.
Extensive use of lightweight
components in key areas of structure
- Premium bake-hardened
aluminium sheet metal pressings are used for the new XJ’s exterior
panels, offering added resilience against dents and dings that
can occur in crowded car parks.
- High-pressure vacuum
aluminium die castings are used for mounting points for the suspension
and driveline components. The castings are both lightweight and
highly resistant to bending, contributing to the precision and
comfort of the XJ’s steering, ride and handling.
- High strength, ‘green
sand’ aluminium castings are used as the interface for the new
XJ’s bolt-on front-end (BOFE) assembly. This BOFE ensures that
in most cases minor, low-speed crash damage can be contained in
the easily replaceable components of the front-end assembly.
- An aluminium, hydroformed
alloy extrusion is used for the front-end radiator support. This
pressurised hydraulic process is used to produce complex shapes
in tubular components that are usually stronger than fabricated
welded assemblies.
- Magnesium, as strong
as aluminium but 30 per cent lighter still, is used for the new
XJ’s seat frames and cross-car beam that supports the dashboard,
instrument panel and steering column.
- Aluminium alloy extrusions
are utilised in the door structures for high strength against
potential aerodynamic wind noise and for enhanced security. Extrusions
are also found in the front and rear bumper beams, and as floor
and roof reinforcements.
These methods combine to
produce a new body structure that is up to 40 per cent lighter than
the equivalent steel body with impressive torsional stiffness (a
measure of the body’s tendency to flex under pressure) of more than
21,700 kg/m, representing a 60 per cent improvement on its predecessor.
Stiffness is important for ride comfort and handling precision,
avoiding squeaks and rattles and aiding long-term durability.
- The new architecture
of the XJ is engineered for repairability, a key factor in the
determination of insurance premiums. Engineering techniques include
a Bolt-On Front End module – designed to reduce the cost of repairing
front-end collision damage – that can withstand an impact of 15
km/h without inflicting structural damage.
Impressive performance
and refinement
Optimised to complement
the XJ6’s lightweight vehicle architecture and new powertrain and
chassis technologies – including the state-of-the-art ZF six-speed
automatic transmission, the 3.0 litre V6 offers refined performance
and enhanced fuel economy and range.
The 3.0 litre AJ-V6 engine
makes its debut in Jaguar’s flagship saloon in this latest incarnation.
Replacing the 3.2 litre V8, it has comparable levels of power and
is the catalyst for resurrecting this model with the impressive
heritage. It achieves class-leading output for this size of normally
aspirated engine, developing 179 kW DIN at 6800 rev/min. Peak torque
of 300NM DIN is achieved at 4100 rev/min. The light weight of the
new XJ ensures that performance of the XJ6 is comparable to or improved
over the outgoing 3.2 litre XJ8.
Major contributors to the
wide spread of torque are the variable-geometry induction system
and the continuously Variable Cam Phasing (VCP) system, which adjusts
the timing of the intake valve opening and closing, depending on
engine speed, load and oil temperature. This allows engine performance
to be optimised for excellent mid-range torque, improved full-load
performance, reduced emissions and improved fuel economy.
The 60-degree AJ-V6 engine
has a lightweight but exceptionally stiff structure – which makes
a major contribution to the engine’s overall refinement – and a
forged steel crankshaft with four main bearings and direct-acting
mechanical bucket tappets. Other key features include two overhead
chain-driven cast iron camshafts per bank with four valves per cylinder,
a four-mode tuned intake manifold and a state-of-the-art, 32-bit
Denso electronic engine management system.
State-of-the-art ZF
six-speed automatic transmission
The six-speed automatic
delivers refined, accessible performance with seamless gearchanges
and world-class quality and reliability. The ZF transmission employs
a planetary gear train principle using Lepelletier-type gear sets.
The result is a wide gear ratio spread and higher torque capacity
that satisfy exacting performance requirements for off-the-line
acceleration, high maximum speed and excellent fuel economy.
The transmission is controlled
by a Bosch ‘Mechatronic’ brain – an integrated electro-hydraulic
control module, housed as a single unit inside the transmission.
The control module ensures the quality and consistency of gear shifts,
as each module’s ECU (electronic control unit) is calibrated to
its own unique hydraulic control body during the manufacturing process.
The electronic brain of
the six-speed ZF automatic transmission incorporates adaptive strategies
which improve accessibility to vehicle performance in demanding
driving conditions while maintaining a relaxed experience when cruising.
In ‘Sport’ mode, throttle
pedal usage and cornering behaviour are monitored to assess driving
style and road conditions. When an enthusiastic driving style or
a demanding road is detected, sixth gear is inhibited and the lower
gears become more accessible in order to prevent unwanted ‘hunting’
between gears. Conversely, when cruising conditions are detected,
sixth gear is once again made available to maximise driving refinement
and economy.
Vehicle dynamics
New front and rear suspension
systems – with the refinement of standard air suspension and enhanced
CATS adaptive damping – take ride comfort and vehicle handling to
new levels in the new Jaguar XJ6. The new suspension systems incorporate
extensive lightweight materials and are designed to complement the
light but very stiff aluminium body.
The stiff structure provides
a rigid foundation for handling, steering and braking performance,
ensuring optimal performance of the XJ’s highly capable chassis
systems.
The new Jaguar XJ chassis
features include:
- The comfort and sophistication
of air suspension on all models.
- Enhanced Computer Active
Technology Suspension (CATS) adaptive damping.
- New technologies, including
an electronic parking brake and the latest generation of Jaguar’s
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Forward Alert (optional).
- New front and rear double-wishbone
suspension systems with isolated subframes for even greater refinement
and ride comfort.
- Four-channel anti-lock
(ABS) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) systems.
- A new Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) system that reacts to and controls both understeer
and oversteer.
- Specially tuned speed-sensitive
power-assisted steering.
Air suspension as standard
The new Jaguar XJ6 is fitted
with air suspension delivering major advantages over traditional
coil-spring suspension systems in terms of ride comfort and refinement,
providing optimum comfort regardless of load conditions and ensuring
that the vehicle’s full suspension travel is always available to
soak up bumps or irregular road surfaces.
The XJ6’s air suspension
system uses air spring/damper units in lieu of the coil-spring/damper
units of a traditional system. A unique top-mount feature isolates
each damper from the body structure while maintaining the pressure
within the spring. This design detail enhances the refinement and
comfort of the XJ6’s ride quality. In addition, spring stiffness
increases according to payload.
Reinterprets classic
XJ dynamic design cues
The new generation – which
marks the return of the famous XJ6 badge – reinterprets the classic
XJ dynamic design cues. The new bonnet retains the highly sculpted
shape that is characteristic of the XJ over the years. Its leading
edge – and indeed the leading edge of the wings – still wraps around
the shape of the headlights, which themselves have evolved into
a more distinct element of the front design. The new four-light
design incorporates the directional indicators and parking lights,
giving the front end a cleaner look.
The XJ6 is visually identical
to its siblings, differentiated by only the XJ6 badge on the boot.
The XJ6 features the new grille, distinguished by intersecting vertical
and horizontal bars, it was inspired by the original Jaguar XJ6.
The XJ design team succeeded
in crafting the XJ6’s rear to accommodate a higher decklid while
retaining the classic Jaguar ‘haunched’ design, hinting at the new
car’s potential power and performance. The XJ6 also evokes the classic
Jaguar boat-tail shape, accentuated by the slope of the higher boot
lid.
A warm, inviting, ‘classic
Jaguar’ interior
“The new Jaguar XJ’s luxurious
interior environment is exemplified by new levels of spaciousness,
craftsmanship, ergonomic flexibility and seat comfort – all complemented
by entertainment, climate control and communications systems that
reflect the needs of today’s luxury car customers.”
Ian Callum, Director of
Design, Jaguar Cars
Ian Callum describes the
XJ6’s interior as ‘classic Jaguar’, in which craftsmanship is the
highest priority.
Comprehensively equipped
with contemporary luxury car technology but restrained and conservative
in style, the new XJ is distinguished by classic Jaguar design cues
and hallmark attention to detail. This is complemented by real wood
veneers for the facia, centre console and door trims, together with
hand-stitched leathers. The new seat designs are rated in Jaguar
customer research as having the best comfort in their class. With
12-way adjustable front seats with electrically adjustable headrests
and three different options for rear seating configurations, the
new Jaguar XJ6 is equipped to pamper its occupants.
Significantly more headroom,
legroom, shoulder room and rear-seat knee room combine to make the
new XJ6 interior a comfortable and relaxing environment for five
adults. Overall interior volume has increased not only for occupants
but for luggage. Even the glove box is bigger.
Standard-fit electrically
adjustable pedals and steering column allow drivers of widely varying
statures to configure their preferred driving position.
Standard on the XJ6 the
Classic interior features colour-keyed upper facia, burr walnut/leather
steering wheel, door top rolls and carpeting, complemented by leather
seat trim and real burr walnut veneer on the facia, centre console,
gear knob and door trims.
Jaguar’s ‘relevant technologies’
philosophy
Jaguar’s philosophy on
technology is clearly evident from the intuitive and relaxed interfaces
between the occupants and the vehicle systems – an approach that
separates Jaguar from many of its competitors.
“You don’t have to be a
computer programmer to operate this car,” insists David Scholes,
XJ Chief Programme Engineer. “Our customers are emphatic in their
opposition to gratuitous technology and unwanted features intruding
on their driving experience, so the Jaguar philosophy is one of
making technology relevant. It should be there when you need it
but it should never impose itself.”
The Jaguar XJ6’s relevant
technologies are centred on easing driver ergonomics, enhancing
passenger comfort, expanding entertainment possibilities and developing
voice-activated systems to reduce driver distractions.
Advanced telematics and
communications technologies that are standard in the XJ6 include
a seven-inch (178 mm) LCD touchscreen display that employs thin-film
transistor technology (TFT) to provide finger-tip control of climate,
audio and DVD navigation systems and TV tuner and front fixed phones.
The rear multimedia system allows passengers to enjoy access to
audio, TV, video and telephone systems independently of the driver
or front seat passenger. They have the freedom to watch a DVD (where
fitted), for example, with no link to the front of the car. This
exceptionally high level of integration is facilitated by fibre
optics for fast, high quality data transfer.
Ergonomically crafted –
electrically adjustable pedals Steering wheel controls allow the
driver to operate the audio system, cruise control (including Adaptive
Cruise Control, where fitted) and an integrated telephone Electronic
park brake JaguarVoice DVD Navigation
- New rear seat multimedia
system This allows rear seat passengers to access the audio, TV/video
and telephone systems independently of the driver and front seat
passenger.
- Two 6.5 inch (165 mm)
colour display screens, available as a separate cost option, are
mounted in the rear of the front seat head restraints for video
and TV viewing.
- The front TV display
is transmitted via the navigation system screen. The TV tuner
receives all free-to-air channels, with stereo TV audio and widescreen
options.
- 320 watt Jaguar Premium
sound system with 12 speakers, digital sound processing, power
amplifier, subwoofers, as well as the remote six-disc CD autochanger
and single-slot CD/radio, is fitted as standard on the XJ6.
Safety and security
The new XJ6 features a
comprehensive array of safety technologies, including Jaguar’s sophisticated
Adaptive Restraint Technology System (A.R.T.S.). But at its protective
core is the strong body shell that is the result of its lightweight
vehicle architecture.
The new Jaguar XJ6’s aluminium-intensive
body structure has already proven its strength in the crash-testing
laboratory. Lighter than the equivalent steel body, the XJ body
structure carries significantly less kinetic energy into a collision,
reducing the amount of energy that must be absorbed by the body
in an accident.
A.R.T.S. – The science
of safety technology
The new XJ6 is equipped
with Jaguar’s Adaptive Restraint Technology System (A.R.T.S.). Originally
introduced on XK sports cars in 2001 and then added on S-TYPE saloons
in 2002, A.R.T.S. employs the world’s most comprehensive and sophisticated
sensing technologies to monitor the position of the front passenger,
while other sensors detect the passenger’s weight, the position
of the driver in relation to the steering wheel and the usage –
or not – of seat belts.
A.R.T.S. has the capability
to sense the severity of a collision and deploy the vehicle’s passive
safety systems according to type and magnitude of collision. As
a result, the system optimises restraint protection for vehicle
occupants, reducing the risk of air bag-induced injuries. A.R.T.S.
also serves to reduce unnecessary passenger air bag deployments,
thereby reducing the cost of accident repairs.
Key elements of A.R.T.S.
include:
- Occupant weight sensing
- Occupant position sensing
- Crash sensors –deploys
passive safety technology – safety belt pretensioners and air
bags – according to the protection required
- Dual-stage driver and
passenger front air bags
- Thorax air bags for front-seat
occupants
- Side air curtains
- Anti-whiplash system
– Both front seats are equipped with energy absorbing backrests
designed to reduce the likelihood of whiplash-style neck and spine
injuries in a rear impact
- Three-point safety belts
- Beltminder
- Steering column – capable
of collapsing by up to 80mm in a collision to enhance the protection
provided to the driver from the front air bag
Comprehensive security
systems
In line with Jaguar’s long-standing
commitment to providing state-of-the-art security and locking systems,
the new XJ is comprehensively equipped to provide reassuring protection
against theft of and from the vehicle. This equipment includes:
- Engine immobilisation
system
- Integrated key transmitter
- Perimeter sensing of
doors, bonnet and boot, the vehicle alarm sounding if they are
tampered with
- Intrusion sensing via
ultrasonic sensors
- And Inclination (tilt)
sensing , double locking (or deadlocking) by key and remote transmitter,
drive-away locking, two-stage unlocking, auto-relocking, security-coded
audio system, headlight convenience and global Open and Close
XJ6 in Australia
The XJ6 goes on sale in
Australia from May 2 and will be priced at $149,900. The XJ6 features
are identical to its two naturally aspirated V8 siblings and include
as standard, DVD-driven satellite navigation, television, phone,
12-way adjustable luxury seats, reverse park aid, cruise control
(adaptive cruise control is available as an option), CATS and 18
inch alloy wheels, including a full-sized alloy spare in the boot.
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