The Jaguar XJ X358 3.0 V6 Automatic, produced from 2007 to 2009, represented a significant mid-cycle refresh of the XJ series, Jaguar’s flagship luxury sedan. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the X358 lineup – which also included naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8s and supercharged variants – the 3.0 V6 aimed to provide a balance of performance, refinement, and fuel efficiency for buyers seeking a luxurious experience without the higher price tag and running costs of the larger engines. It continued the XJ’s tradition of British luxury, blending elegant styling with advanced technology for the time. The X358 generation itself was a substantial update to the X350, addressing criticisms regarding its styling and incorporating more traditional Jaguar design cues.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jaguar |
| Model | XJ |
| Generation | XJ (X358) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 (238 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 15.6 l/100 km (15.1 US mpg, 18.1 UK mpg, 6.4 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) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 249 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 238 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 293 Nm @ 4100 rpm (216.11 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AJ30 |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt, 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.25 l (10.83 US qt, 9.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1533 kg (3379.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2183 kg (4812.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal, 18.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 5091 mm (200.43 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1898 mm (74.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2104 mm (82.83 in.) |
| Height | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3034 mm (119.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, 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 | 255/40 HR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the XJ 3.0 V6 is the AJ30 engine, a 2.967-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine, part of Jaguar’s AJ-V6 family, utilizes a 60-degree V-angle for inherent balance. It features a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 238 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 293 Nm (216 lb-ft) of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized smoothness and refinement over outright power, aligning with the XJ’s luxury positioning. Paired with the AJ30 is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and contributing to the car’s overall comfortable driving experience. This transmission was known for its responsiveness and ability to adapt to driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 V6 Automatic XJ offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its V8 siblings. While lacking the immediate punch of the larger engines, the V6 provided ample power for comfortable cruising and everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.7 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 139.81 mph. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for relaxed cruising, with a focus on minimizing engine noise and maximizing fuel efficiency. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other XJ models, the automatic prioritized ease of use and comfort over driver engagement. The V6’s lighter weight compared to the V8s also contributed to slightly improved handling and agility.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XJ 3.0 V6 Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting Jaguar’s commitment to luxury. Standard features included leather upholstery, wood veneer trim, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included a navigation system, heated and cooled seats, rear seat entertainment, and upgraded leather options. The trim level often dictated the availability of certain features, with higher trims offering more luxurious appointments and advanced technology. The XJ’s interior was designed to provide a serene and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The XJ X358 utilized a robust chassis with double wishbone suspension at both the front and rear, incorporating a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The car’s weight distribution was carefully balanced to contribute to its stable and predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The XJ 3.0 V6 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a sensible and refined option within the XJ range. It offered a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers who didn’t require the outright power of the V8 models. Fuel economy, while not exceptional by modern standards, was noticeably better than the V8 variants. Reliability was generally good, although like any luxury car, the XJ could be expensive to maintain. Compared to competitors like the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the XJ 3.0 V6 offered a unique blend of British charm and sophisticated technology.
Legacy
The Jaguar XJ X358 3.0 V6 Automatic has aged gracefully and remains a desirable used car today. The AJ30 engine, while not known for being particularly high-performance, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional sensor failures, but these are generally manageable. The XJ’s timeless styling and luxurious interior continue to appeal to enthusiasts, and well-maintained examples command reasonable prices in the used car market. It represents a sweet spot in the XJ lineage, offering a balance of luxury, refinement, and affordability that makes it an attractive option for those seeking a classic British luxury sedan.
