Showing posts with label Jaguar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jaguar. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Jaguar XJ, 2010

Jaguar XJ, 2010

 
 

Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, the all-new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to automotive luxury. It offers a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and engineering without compromise.

The new Jaguar XJ is the epitome of fluid, contemporary automotive style. The elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car's silhouette and lies at the heart of its flowing design. And the new Jaguar XJ doesn't just look streamlined: it shares a drag coefficient of 0.29 with the Jaguar XF saloon, making them the most aerodynamic Jaguars ever.
A coupé profile cloaks a cabin that offers comparable levels of space to saloons with a more conventional style. There is generous accommodation for five occupants, while long-wheelbase models provide rear-seat passengers with even greater levels of comfort thanks to an additional 125mm of rear legroom.

The exquisitely designed interior has a strong sporting character throughout. A panoramic glass roof, standard on all models, dramatically enhances the sense of light and space inside the new Jaguar XJ. And in keeping with its status as the ultimate four-door Jaguar, the XJ introduces a new generation of interior technologies, pioneering the use of display and infotainment systems such as the innovative Virtual Instrument dials and optional 1200W Bowers & Wilkins premium surround sound system.

At the heart of the all-new Jaguar XJ's construction is a next-generation application of Jaguar's unique lightweight vehicle architecture. Primarily aluminium, but also using magnesium and composite alloys, this allows Jaguar to produce a significantly lighter and stiffer body - the lightest in its class. The new structure - which retains the same aerospace-based riveting and bonding processes - has been refined using these advanced materials to deliver improved strength, enhanced refinement and superior safety performance.

The new Jaguar XJ offers the choice of four powerful and refined engines, which use the latest powertrain technology to deliver an outstanding combination of performance and class-leading efficiency. The supremely powerful supercharged 510PS 5.0-litre AJ-V8 Gen III will head the line-up, with a 0-60mph time of 4.7 secs (0-100kph in 4.9 secs); 470PS supercharged and 385PS naturally aspirated petrol V8s are also available, dependent on market.

A no-compromise diesel alternative is provided by the formidable 275PS 3.0-litre AJ-V6D Gen III. With twin sequential turbochargers, this is an engine that delivers on every aspect of the Jaguar driving experience, marrying tremendous drive (0-60mph in 6.0 secs, 0-100kph in 6.4 secs) with impressive fuel economy and CO2 emissions (40.1mpg and 184g/km of CO2).

The all-new Jaguar XJ delivers a driving experience that is just as memorable as the car's appearance. Benefitting from technologies pioneered on the exciting new Jaguar XFR and Jaguar XKR models, including continuously variable damping (Adaptive Dynamics), electronically controlled rear differential (Active Differential Control) and a quick ratio power-steering system, the new Jaguar XJ combines responsive, sporting dynamics with the refined, supple ride expected from a luxury Jaguar.

With its unique lightweight aluminium body structure and new, advanced powertrains, the all-new Jaguar XJ already has a head start when it comes to sustainable performance. The aluminium body uses more than 50 percent recycled material, with a plan to increase this to 75 percent. Body panels made from recycled material use only 5 percent of the energy required for new aluminium, equating to a potential saving of three tonnes of CO2 per vehicle.

THE CONCEPT
The all-new Jaguar XJ's distinctive lines mark the next bold evolution of Jaguar's new design language. The striking elongated teardrop shape of the side window graphic establishes the car's streamlined profile, and is balanced by a dramatic lower swage line emanating from the front wheels that reinforces the vehicle's forward stance. The new Jaguar XJ's sleek lines are complemented by a taut waistline, which further accentuates the impression of length and elegance and creates a natural tension as it fades from the front arch into the middle section of the car before reappearing as a strong haunch towards the rear.

Bold, confident face
The face of the XJ is confident, with a wide front track and short overhangs contributing to the finely judged proportions. The nose of the car follows Jaguar's new design language, with a bold and assertive treatment: the powerful mesh grille and slim xenon headlamps creating a strong road presence.
The strong, muscular lower half of the car is contrasted with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline, which takes inspiration from the original 1968 XJ saloon. The wrap-around rear screen reduces the visual weight of the pillars, and gives the impression of an exotic 'floating' roof.

And the new Jaguar XJ doesn't just look sleek and streamlined: it is, alongside the XF, the most aerodynamic Jaguar ever. The car has a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29, and, equally importantly, outstanding high-speed stability.
A key factor in achieving this highly efficient aerodynamic performance was the extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to refine the shape long before the car ever saw a wind tunnel. Taking the process pioneered on the XF programme to a new level of sophistication, more than 400 detailed CFD studies were performed during the initial design phase.

Every area of the new Jaguar XJ - from the outer skin to the composite undertray to the fine grille meshes of the cooling system - was optimised using this process. Key areas included the profile of the rear decklid, which was engineered to ensure that the airflow was controlled without the need for a spoiler. As well as reduced drag and impressively low wind noise, the overall shape achieves aerodynamic loads that are carefully balanced between front and rear axles to ensure optimum handling balance and high-speed stability.

Dramatic LED lights
The rear end is notable for its pure, sculpted shape, with a conscious absence of unnecessary ornamentation. The sheet metal of the rear panel retains its pure form, with a single leaping Jaguar motif making a strong, confident statement. The LED light clusters wrap stylishly over the rear wings, and feature three dramatic red, vertical strips.

Architectural interior design
The overriding impression from the interior is a sense of personal space, a feeling enhanced by the clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle. At the sides of the cabin, a bold architectural wood veneer sweeps forward from the doors to meet at the front of the car, emphasising the new Jaguar XJ's powerful, dynamic character. This linear, modern use of wood helps to create a truly welcoming environment.

The panoramic glass roof has been from the outset an integral part of the design concept of the all-new Jaguar XJ. It enables a lower, more streamlined roofline, and also dramatically enhances the feeling of light and space within the car. The roof's opening mechanism slides the glass upwards and outwards, so that headroom is never compromised. A dark tint and reflective coating prevent the interior from overheating under strong sunlight, while twin electric blinds provide another level of privacy and sun screening.

THE TECHNOLOGY
In keeping with its position as the ultimate Jaguar saloon, the all-new Jaguar XJ pioneers the use of advanced new technologies, driver displays and infotainment systems that set an exciting new benchmark within its segment.
As the driver is greeted by the signature Jaguar 'handshake' - the circular knurled aluminium rotary control of the JaguarDrive Selector™ rising into the driver's palm - stylish 3D animations materialise in the virtual instrument cluster and on the central Touch-screen, giving an immediate signal that the new Jaguar XJ takes a revolutionary approach to the way information is displayed in the vehicle.

Sophisticated virtual instrumentation
There is no physical instrument cluster display in the all-new Jaguar XJ. Instead, a 12.3-inch high-definition screen, which uses sophisticated - and beautifully detailed - virtual instruments, provides all of the functions performed by traditional dials. Jaguar's designers have also taken advantage of the freedom provided by virtual instrumentation to help prioritise the most useful information as well as creating a real sense of theatre for the driver.
As the XJ starts, three virtual dials build before your eyes: the centre dial houses a speedometer, flanked on the right by a rev counter and on the left by an information window with fuel and temperature gauges.

To maximise clarity, the display employs a 'spotlight' effect to highlight the areas showing the most important information, such as the current speed or engine revs. When required - for example, if fuel is running low, or the driver is selecting a radio station - the rev counter fades away to be temporarily replaced by the required warning message or menu.
This prioritisation goes to another level when the driver who is looking for even more sporting performance and handling selects the XJ's Dynamic mode. In this case, the dials assume a sporting red hue and feature a bold gear position indicator which glows red as you reach the rev limiter.

Dual-View Touch-screen display
A large, 8-inch Touch-screen display in the centre console is the ideal complement to the virtual instrument cluster, providing an intuitive way to manage many of the Jaguar XJ's functions, including climate control, audio, communications and navigation.

However, the display is more than simply intuitive; it also features Dual-View technology, a significant advance that allows the driver and front passenger to look at completely different content on the same screen. For example, the passenger can watch television or a DVD movie, while the driver views route navigation mapping. Headphone compatibility allows the passenger to listen without the driver being distracted.

The Touch-screen interface allows the number of conventional switches to be reduced to a minimum, with just a small number of major controls positioned below the display. The driver can also use Jaguar's latest generation Interactive Voice control system, which sees the cluster display present a list of prompts for key words to control a particular function. This new "say what you see" approach quickly allows the driver to gain confidence and familiarity using systems such as the in-car telephone, navigation or audio.

Flexible multimedia capabilities including Hard Disc Drive (HDD)
The impressive flexibility provided by the new display and control systems is matched by the all-new Jaguar XJ's multimedia capabilities. Depending on market and model, there is a choice of CD/DVD player; analogue, DAB, HD radio or SiriusTM radio receivers; and digital or analogue television. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth® audio streaming and an auxiliary input, which allow the user to connect with iPods®, iPhones®, laptops and Blackberries®, for example.

The audio unit utilises a hard-disc-drive (HDD) system, so that CDs can be loaded onto the HDD for later listening. GracenoteTM is included to allow artist and track information to be recognised. The vehicle's navigation system is also HDD-based, providing quicker access and the ability to store and update detailed mapping information more easily.

Monday, April 18, 2011

Jaguar XFR, 2010

Jaguar XFR, 2010

 


The enhanced exterior styling of the Jaguar XFR moves those sporting credentials on even further, to deliver the ultimate expression of Jaguar's new saloon car design language - carrying a number of visual design cues that are intrinsic to Jaguar's 'R' car philosophy. Its unique front-end design has a larger lower grille with new black-finished mesh, plus chrome outboard air intakes. The upper mesh grille retains XF's bright finish, while the bonnet carries distinctive louvres, like those on the XKR sports car.

The Jaguar XFR also features bold new sill extensions, while the rear bumper adds a unique body-coloured lower valance panel incorporating the 'R' signature of four large, bright-finished tail pipes. The new bootlid spoiler has a significant aerodynamic effect. Developed in conjunction with the new front bumper design, it further improves the Jaguar XFR's front/rear lift balance, and therefore its high-speed stability. A new exterior mirror design also offers aerodynamic improvements, plus improved functionality with its LED side repeaters.

The Jaguar XFR's sporting character is clearly apparent in the 20-inch Nevis alloy wheels. It is the only car in its class to offer this size of wheel as standard specification. Those twin-seven-spoke wheels bear the wording 'Jaguar Supercharged' embossed around their centres, and are wrapped tightly around silver-grey brake callipers, which carry the evocative 'R' logo. The R badge also appears on the right-hand side of the boot lid drop panel, to complete the XFR's external visual identity.

The new Jaguar XFR is offered with a select palette of just eight exterior colours: Ultimate Black, Indigo, Liquid Silver, Lunar Grey, Porcelain, Botanical Green, Kyanite Blue and Salsa. All except Salsa and Porcelain are metallic colours and, within the XF range, Salsa and Kyanite Blue are unique to Jaguar XFR. For each colour - as across the entire XF range - Jaguar suggests a 'Designer's Choice' of the leather trim colours that best complement each body colour and the Warm Charcoal upper facia that is standard on every Jaguar XFR.

The interior design theme is modern and individual. The cabin environment is uniquely Jaguar and in the XFR more details hint at the car's performance. A full soft grain leather interior is standard, with four colour choices - Warm Charcoal, Warm Charcoal/Red Zone, Warm Charcoal/London Tan, and Ivory. A new Dark Oak veneer is the standard finish for the Jaguar XFR's wood-trimmed areas. New 18x14-way adjustable sports seats have electrically adjustable squab bolsters for significantly improved support at higher cornering speeds. Each Jaguar XFR seat has the 'R' logo embossed on its squab and the front seats have leather seat-back map pockets.

The fascia introduces a unique, dark mesh aluminium finish, and another discreet 'R' badge on the passenger side of the instrument panel. The speedometer and tachometer have the unique sporting signature of red dial pointers, and carry the 'Supercharged' motif. And at start-up, the 'R' logo appears on the Touch-screen as part of the XFR 'driver handshake' sequence.

The most advanced Jaguar V8 engines ever
The supercharged 5.0-litre V8 that powers the new XFR is Jaguar's new flagship engine, but it is only half of the petrol engine story - a naturally-aspirated version of the all-new engine brings additional advanced technologies and performance to other models in the XF range.

Light, robust and very strong
The all-new 5.0-litre V8 petrol engines are built around a stiff, all-new, aluminium block with cast-in iron liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. For the first time at Jaguar the blocks are high-pressure die-cast, providing a superior finish and greater dimensional accuracy. The engines use aluminium heads, with four valves per cylinder and strong, spheroidal-graphite cast-iron crankshafts and forged steel connecting rods. The cylinder heads for the first time are specified with a secondary (recycled) aluminium alloy, reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing the new engine.

The new 5.0-litre V8 engines are more compact than their predecessors. Overall engine length has been reduced by 24mm by relocation of the oil pump within the engine architecture. This length reduction improves engine bay packaging in support of enhanced safety cell performance while ensuring overall engine weight is virtually unchanged.

Jaguar XF, 2010

Jaguar XF, 2010

 

The new Jaguar XF is already acclaimed as a key element in the revitalization of the Jaguar brand, with its new generation of beautiful fast cars. But now the car that defines Jaguar sporting luxury is even better, with major powertrain changes and a wider range of models - including a stunning new, supercharged Jaguar XFR.

The 2010 model year Jaguar XF features all-new 5.0-liter direct-injection V8 engines. There are also significant trim and specification changes - including many new features unique to the new XFR - and the introduction of a new Portfolio derivative.

When it was introduced last year, the Jaguar XF was soon recognized as a dramatic expression of a bold new Jaguar design language. It also soon became apparent that here was a car where the driving experience exceeded the expectations created by the striking appearance. Now, the new XFR takes this driving experience to new levels, shifting the balance even further towards dynamic performance while still retaining the Jaguar XF's core values as a refined and luxurious sports sedan. Power comes from an all-new 5.0-liter direct-injection supercharged V8 engine delivering 510bhp and 461lb-ft of torque. Immediately recognizable thanks to unique new 20-inch wheels, a new front end design with revised chrome air intakes, 'Supercharged' hood louvres, four polished exhaust tailpipes, an aerodynamically functional rear spoiler and side sills, the new XFR also sports discreet 'R' badging.

The attributes that marked out the Jaguar XF at launch are still very much new and in the public eye. The four-door XF has the visual excitement of a coupe, but room inside for five adults to enjoy an interior wholly contemporary in style yet uniquely Jaguar.

Simplicity and clever use of space are key to the Jaguar XF's interior design and this is unchanged in the new generation. For the driver, this is centered on the compact packaging of the JaguarDrive Selector™ transmission interface. The beautiful cast alloy Selector has already gained recognition for its part in the distinctive XF 'welcoming handshake'; a sequence in which the illuminated stop/start button pulsates like a heartbeat until pressed, when the JaguarDrive Selector™ rises into the driver's hand and the rotating fascia vents silently open.

Features such as this have already attracted more than 30,000 customers to the new Jaguar XF - and now, in many instances, they have been enhanced even further. The combination of aluminum dashboard, satin or gloss wood veneers, tailored instrument and door panels with twin-needle stitching as standard, plus Phosphor Blue halo illumination and interior mood lighting, set the Jaguar XF's cabin as far apart from its competitors as its exterior styling.

But it is the new powertrain options that are at the heart of the changes for 2010 model year. The all-new 5.0-liter AJ-V8 Gen III engines - in 385bhp/380lb-ft of torque naturally aspirated and 510bhp/461lb-ft supercharged 'R' guise - add an entirely new, even more sporting dimension to the Jaguar XF range.

These new engines are Jaguar's most efficient ever, and they deliver power and performance at a higher level across the board. In the case of the supercharged engine, compared to the 4.2-liter V8, power has increased by a remarkable 23 percent and torque by 12 percent.

The result in the new Jaguar XFR is a 0-60mph sprint time of just 4.7 seconds (0-100kph in 4.9 seconds). More relevant in everyday driving, an excellent indicator of XFR's great flexibility is the time it takes to accelerate from 50-70mph - just 1.9 seconds.

The comparisons for the naturally aspirated engine are equally impressive. Power is increased by 29 percent and torque by 25 percent. The benchmark 0-60mph acceleration time is 5.5 seconds (0-100kph in 5.7 seconds) - some 0.8 seconds quicker than the 4.2 Jaguar XF. Better still, these improvements are achieved without hindering fuel economy and emissions performance. The new engines meet US ULEV II/Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions regulations.

The naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine will continue to play a key role for the Jaguar XF and will be available starting January 2009. Customers will be able to order the latest naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 versions of the new Jaguar XF range from January 2009. The 510bhp supercharged V8 XFR will be available to order from February 2009.