The Jaguar XJ X351 3.0d V6, produced from 2012 to 2015, represented a significant evolution of Jaguar’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the X351 generation, which ran from 2009-2019, this variant aimed to balance performance, efficiency, and luxury. It served as a key alternative to the supercharged petrol models, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and torque without sacrificing the XJ’s renowned refinement. The X351 series itself was a complete redesign, moving away from the XJ’s traditional styling cues towards a more contemporary and aerodynamic form, and utilizing an all-aluminum body construction for reduced weight.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jaguar |
| Model | XJ |
| Generation | XJ (X351) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0d V6 (275 Hp) Automatic 8-speed |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 338.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 275 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 2000 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 306DT |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1772 kg (3906.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 598 kg (1318.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 5127 mm (201.85 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1950 mm (76.77 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2105 mm (82.87 in.) |
| Height | 1457 mm (57.36 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3032 mm (119.37 in.) |
| Front track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/50 R18; 245/45 R19 Rear wheel tires: 275/45 R18; 275/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 18; 9J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 9J x 18; 10J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the XJ 3.0d was Jaguar’s 306DT engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This engine, developed in collaboration with PSA Peugeot Citroën, utilized a common-rail direct injection system and a sequential twin-turbocharger setup. The first, smaller turbocharger provided quick response at low engine speeds, minimizing turbo lag, while the larger turbocharger delivered increased power at higher RPMs. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved efficiency and power output. The 8-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, was a crucial component, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. Its wide gear ratio spread contributed to both fuel economy and responsive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 275 horsepower and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 3.0d V6 provided a compelling driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the supercharged petrol variants, the diesel offered strong acceleration – 0-60 mph in around 6 seconds – and effortless cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, providing seamless shifts and contributing to a relaxed driving experience. Compared to the 2.0L petrol models, the 3.0d offered significantly more torque, making it more suitable for long-distance journeys and carrying passengers. The gear ratios were optimized for both fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration, with lower gears providing strong pull from a standstill and higher gears allowing for quiet and economical highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0d V6 typically came well-equipped, positioning itself as a premium offering. Standard features included leather upholstery, wood veneer trim, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Optional extras included upgraded sound systems, rear-seat entertainment, adaptive cruise control, and various driver assistance technologies. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and technology. The XJ Portfolio trim, for example, added features like premium leather, massaging seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The XJ X351 utilized an all-aluminum chassis, contributing to its relatively low weight for a full-size luxury sedan. The front suspension featured a double wishbone setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link system with air suspension and a transverse stabilizer bar. The air suspension provided a comfortable ride and allowed for adjustable ride height. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The XJ 3.0d V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined ride, comfortable interior, and strong fuel economy. Compared to the supercharged petrol models, the diesel offered a more practical and economical option for buyers who didn’t prioritize outright performance. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine lacked the aural excitement of the petrol engines. In terms of reliability, the 306DT engine proved to be generally robust, although like any modern diesel, it required diligent maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The Jaguar XJ 3.0d V6 (X351) remains a desirable used car option, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency. The 306DT engine, while requiring regular servicing, has proven to be relatively reliable. The all-aluminum construction of the X351 also contributes to its longevity. Today, these vehicles can be found in good condition, offering a sophisticated and comfortable driving experience at a more accessible price point than newer luxury sedans. The X351 generation, and specifically the 3.0d variant, helped solidify Jaguar’s reputation for building refined and capable luxury vehicles.
