The Jaguar XJ X358 4.2 V8 Automatic, produced from 2007 to 2009, represents a significant evolution of Jaguar’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the X358 range, it offered a blend of luxury, power, and sophisticated technology. The X358 generation itself was a substantial refresh of the XJ series, building upon the foundations of the X350 while incorporating styling cues inspired by the earlier XJ6 models. This particular 4.2-liter V8 automatic configuration aimed to deliver a refined driving experience for buyers seeking both performance and the convenience of an automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jaguar |
| Model | XJ |
| Generation | XJ (X358) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 V8 (298 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) | 16.7 l/100 km (14.1 US mpg, 16.9 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg, 24.8 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 269 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 185.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 256.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 298 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71 Hp/l |
| Torque | 411 Nm @ 4100 rpm (303.14 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AJ34 |
| Engine displacement | 4196 cm3 (256.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.3 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.45 l (9.99 US qt | 8.31 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1603 kg (3534.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2223 kg (4900.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Jaguar XJ X358 4.2 V8 Automatic, launched in 2007, was a key component of Jaguar’s strategy to modernize its flagship model. The X358 represented a significant investment by Ford, Jaguar’s parent company at the time, aimed at enhancing the XJ’s appeal in a competitive luxury sedan segment. This variant, powered by the naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a compelling balance of performance, refinement, and comfort. It sat above the entry-level 3.0-liter models and below the supercharged 4.2-liter and 5.0-liter variants, catering to buyers who desired substantial power without the added cost and complexity of forced induction.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the XJ X358 4.2 V8 Automatic lies the AJ34 engine, a 4.2-liter (4196 cc) naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a descendant of Jaguar’s long-standing V8 tradition, features a 60-degree V-angle and utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine boasts double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, contributing to its smooth power delivery and relatively high specific output. The engine produces 298 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 411 Nm (303 lb-ft) of torque at 4100 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, was a crucial element in delivering a refined driving experience. This transmission, known for its smoothness and responsiveness, features adaptive shift programming, adjusting shift points based on driving style and conditions. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to provide a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, although the XJ 4.2 V8 was never intended to be a fuel-sipping vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The XJ X358 4.2 V8 Automatic delivers a distinctly British driving experience – comfortable, refined, and surprisingly capable. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.3 seconds, making it a brisk performer for its size and class. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving experience, particularly in city traffic. However, when pushed, the transmission responds quickly to driver inputs, providing smooth and decisive downshifts. Compared to the manual transmission versions (which were rare in the US market), the automatic offers greater convenience and ease of use. Against the supercharged variants, the 4.2 V8 naturally aspirated engine provides less outright acceleration, but it offers a more linear and predictable power delivery. The weight distribution, combined with the double wishbone suspension, results in composed handling, although the XJ is primarily geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XJ X358 4.2 V8 Automatic came generously equipped, reflecting its position as a luxury vehicle. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, wood veneer trim, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included a rear seat entertainment system, upgraded leather options, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior design emphasized elegance and craftsmanship, with attention paid to detail and material quality. The dashboard layout was relatively straightforward, with a focus on ease of use. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, the 4.2 V8 Automatic was positioned as a mid-to-high-range offering within the XJ lineup.
Chassis & Braking
The XJ X358 utilized a robust chassis construction, combining aluminum and steel to achieve a balance between rigidity and weight. The suspension system employed double wishbones at both the front and rear, along with a transverse stabilizer bar to minimize body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for enhanced safety. The braking system provided ample stopping power, although the XJ’s weight meant that it wasn’t as agile as some of its lighter competitors. The steering system was a hydraulic rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The XJ X358 4.2 V8 Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and refined powertrain. However, some critics noted that its fuel economy was relatively poor, and its technology wasn’t as cutting-edge as some of its German rivals. Compared to the 3.0-liter models, the 4.2 V8 offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag. Against the supercharged variants, it provided a more accessible entry point into the XJ range, appealing to buyers who prioritized refinement over outright speed. Reliability was generally good, although like any complex luxury vehicle, the XJ X358 could be prone to occasional electrical issues.
Legacy
The Jaguar XJ X358 4.2 V8 Automatic remains a desirable classic in the used car market. Its combination of luxury, performance, and British charm continues to appeal to enthusiasts. The AJ34 engine, while not the most fuel-efficient, is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for age-related issues, such as suspension component wear and electrical gremlins. Well-maintained examples of the XJ X358 4.2 V8 Automatic can provide years of comfortable and stylish motoring, representing a compelling alternative to more modern luxury sedans.
