2004 Jaguar XJR

  So today I figured would be a good idea to get on top of this latest arrival while I still have the chance to test it out. I've always been a big fan of top of the line luxury and performance cars, and today's is both balled into one amazing car. What we're looking at today is the 2004 Jaguar XJR. Some of you might have mixed feelings about the British company, but the fact is that Jaguar has produced some of the most stunning and gorgeous vehicles to ever see the pavement.
  Style has always been on the very top of the priority list for Jaguar, and that becomes evident looking at the exterior of this specimen. The styling, of course, is directly from the 70's, but quite frankly it was gorgeous back then so why change it? It's been slightly tweaked, of course, on the exterior. The lines are smoother and more flowing and rounded than the 70's models and through the wheel spokes, it's evident that it's dripping with modern technology. That being said, you start to notice things like how even though it's a big full size luxury car, it's also relatively low to the ground and how even though it's got a hood ornament of the iconic big cat, it also has performance brakes all the way around. What I'm saying is that even though it's big and classy, it looks like it just might be a sleeper.
   When you step inside though you start to second guess that assumption due to the unbelievable luxury that surrounds you. Every amenity that you can think of is there and then some. Obviously you'd expect leather seating, premium sound system and a sun roof, but what you wouldn't expect is heated seating in the back seats as well as the front, and not only electric seats, windows, doors and mirrors, but also steering wheel and pedal position  as well. As I fired up the engine, I was greeted by the pleasant rumble of a V8, but after a rev or two, I had to take a quick look under the hood. I found myself gaping at a supercharged V8, that I later found out churns out just under 400 horsepower. So it is a sleeper! After messing with the navigation system a little bit, I set off towards the highway immediately impressed by the smooth ride and comfort. The electronically controlled suspension clearly handled cruising well so I decided to put my foot down a little bit entering onto the highway and found that it also cornered very well also. As I accelerated I was pressed back into the leather and the purring V8 suddenly let loose it's big cat roar combined with the classic whine of the supercharger. I was delighted, but as I glanced down at the needle rising higher and higher, eased up on the gas a little bit before I got myself into too much trouble. It was phenomenal cruising at highway speeds, and felt like I was gliding along on a plush, comfy 400 horsepower cloud.


   Thus far I've been able to find something about every car I've driven that I didn't like, but this was a tough one. The styling was timeless and beautiful, the interior had every comfort you could think of, the engine and handling was excellent and even the trunk space was massive. I know it's a first for me, but this one really is flawless. Like I said earlier, some of you may disagree with me about Jags, but if you do ever get the chance be sure and experience one for your selves. Anyway I'll see you all again tomorrow on The Fast Lane.