The Jaguar XJ Long (X351) 3.0 V6 Supercharged Automatic, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a significant iteration of Jaguar’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the XJ Long (extended wheelbase) range, it aimed to deliver a blend of luxury, performance, and technology. This model falls within the X351 generation, which debuted in 2009 and marked a departure from the traditional Jaguar styling cues, embracing a more modern and aerodynamic design. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase, providing increased rear passenger legroom, catering to buyers prioritizing comfort and prestige. This particular 3.0L supercharged V6 automatic configuration served as a strong mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the entry-level naturally aspirated V6 and the top-tier supercharged V8 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jaguar |
| Model | XJ |
| Generation | XJ Long (X351) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 Supercharged (340 Hp) Automatic |
| 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) | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg, 20.9 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 193.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 255.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 3500-5000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 3500-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 306PS |
| Engine displacement | 2995 cm3 (182.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1761 kg (3882.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 639 kg (1408.75 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 | 5252 mm (206.77 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 | 3157 mm (124.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 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, 355 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 326 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/45 R19; 245/40 R20Rear wheel tires: 275/40 R19; 275/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 9J x 19; 9J x 20Rear wheel rims: 10J x 19; 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the XJ Long 3.0 V6 Supercharged lies Jaguar’s AJ306 engine. This 3.0-liter V6 utilizes a Roots-type supercharger, providing instant boost and a characteristic growl. The engine benefits from direct fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine code, 306PS, denotes the metric horsepower rating. The valvetrain employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and overall performance. Paired with this engine is a ZF 8HP80 eight-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and efficiency. This transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both acceleration and fuel economy. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 V6 Supercharged Automatic delivers a compelling driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph occurs in approximately 5.7 seconds, making it a genuinely quick luxury sedan. The supercharger provides ample torque throughout the rev range, resulting in strong pull in everyday driving situations. While not as brutally fast as the supercharged V8 models, the V6 offers a more balanced feel, with less weight over the front axle. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to a refined driving experience, with seamless gear changes. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other XJ variants, the automatic prioritizes comfort and ease of use, making it ideal for long-distance cruising. The gear ratios are tuned for a blend of performance and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for highway driving and shorter gears for quicker acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XJ Long 3.0 V6 Supercharged typically came well-equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, wood veneer trim, and a premium audio system. Standard technology included a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and parking sensors. The extended wheelbase provided generous rear legroom, enhancing passenger comfort. Optional extras included features such as a rear seat entertainment system, massaging seats, and upgraded leather options. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, this variant sat in the mid-range of the XJ lineup, offering a significant step up in performance and luxury compared to the base V6 models.
Chassis & Braking
The XJ Long utilizes an aluminum chassis, contributing to its relatively low weight. The front suspension features a double wishbone setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension employs an independent multi-link design with air suspension and a transverse stabilizer bar, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger discs at the front. The XJ is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and other electronic stability control systems to enhance safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the XJ Long 3.0 V6 Supercharged for its blend of performance, luxury, and technology. The supercharged V6 engine was considered a sweet spot in the lineup, offering ample power without the added cost and weight of the V8. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was reasonable for a vehicle of this size and performance. Compared to its rivals, such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the XJ offered a more sporting driving experience and a distinctive British character. The automatic transmission was well-received for its smoothness and responsiveness.
Legacy
The Jaguar XJ Long 3.0 V6 Supercharged Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the used car market. The ZF 8HP80 transmission is known for its durability, and the AJ306 engine, while requiring regular maintenance, is generally robust. Common issues include occasional supercharger pulley failures and oil leaks. However, with proper care, these vehicles can provide many years of enjoyable motoring. Today, the X351 XJ represents a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and capable grand tourer at a more accessible price point.
