The Jaguar XJ Long (X351 facelift) 5.0 V8 Automatic, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the XJ range. This extended-wheelbase variant of the XJ, part of the X351 generation introduced in 2009 and facelifted in 2015, was specifically designed to cater to buyers prioritizing rear passenger space without compromising on the Jaguar driving experience. The 5.0 V8 model, generating 510 horsepower, served as the flagship powertrain option, offering a blend of effortless acceleration and refined cruising. It was positioned as the premium offering, above the supercharged 3.0L V6 models, and targeted buyers seeking a true luxury sedan experience comparable to offerings from Bentley and Rolls-Royce.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jaguar |
| Model | XJ |
| Generation | XJ Long (X351 facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 V8 (510 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 21.2 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 25.4 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 9 km/l |
| CO2 emissions | 264 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.7 kg/Hp, 270.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 331.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 510 Hp @ 6000-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102 Hp/l |
| Torque | 625 Nm @ 2500-5500 rpm (460.98 lb.-ft. @ 2500-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 508PS |
| Engine displacement | 5000 cm3 (305.12 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.25 l (7.66 US qt | 6.38 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1885 kg (4155.71 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5255 mm (206.89 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2105 mm (82.87 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3157 mm (124.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Rear track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the XJ Long 5.0 V8 lies Jaguar’s AJ126 engine, a 5.0-liter supercharged V8. This engine, a cornerstone of Jaguar performance for many years, utilizes a sixth-generation Eaton supercharger to deliver substantial power and torque across a broad RPM range. The engine employs direct fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and responsiveness. The valvetrain is a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, contributing to the engine’s high volumetric efficiency. The engine code 508PS denotes the power output in metric horsepower. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is a crucial component of the powertrain. This transmission offers smooth and rapid gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. It features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing for both strong acceleration and relaxed highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 510 hp V8 and the eight-speed automatic transmission results in a remarkably capable grand tourer. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 4.7 seconds, and the car feels effortlessly powerful in everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission is programmed for smooth shifts in normal driving modes, but can be shifted manually via paddle shifters for a more engaging experience. Compared to the 3.0L V6 models, the V8 offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more authoritative and refined driving experience. While the V8 is less fuel-efficient than the V6, the added performance is often considered worthwhile by enthusiasts. The long wheelbase contributes to a comfortable and stable ride, particularly on long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XJ Long 5.0 V8 Automatic came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, a high-end audio system (often Meridian), and a rear-seat entertainment system. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and a surround-view camera system. Optional extras included upgraded leather trims, executive rear seating packages with individual reclining seats and massage functions, and various customization options through Jaguar’s bespoke personalization service.
Chassis & Braking
The XJ Long utilizes an aluminum-intensive chassis, contributing to its relatively low weight for a full-size luxury sedan. The suspension system consists of double wishbones at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The XJ Long 5.0 V8 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and refined driving experience. However, some critics noted its relatively high price and complex infotainment system. Compared to rivals such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the XJ offered a more distinctive and sporting driving experience, but lacked the brand recognition and extensive technology features of its German competitors. Fuel economy, at 21.2 US mpg combined, was typical for a vehicle in this class, but higher than some of the more powerful V8-equipped rivals.
Legacy
The Jaguar XJ Long 5.0 V8 Automatic represents a high point in Jaguar’s luxury sedan offerings. The AJ126 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional supercharger problems, but these are generally addressable by qualified technicians. On the used car market, these XJs hold their value reasonably well, particularly well-maintained examples with low mileage. They remain a desirable choice for buyers seeking a luxurious and powerful grand tourer with a distinctive British character.
