It’s probably safe to say not many auto enthusiasts aspire to take a limousine for a spin. Be driven around in one maybe, but not assume the controls. I’m not saying that the refreshed 2016 Jaguar XJL, L for long wheelbase (LWB), four-door flagship is a limo, although it’s a vehicle designed to be equally as delightful for passengers as it is for the person behind the wheel.
At 5,255 millimetres long and 2,105 mm wide, the XJL is big. What’s amazing is that even given its huge footprint, Jaguar has managed to give the extended sedan an elegant and graceful rather than an awkward look. One of the visual elements contributing to this is the illusion of a floating roof, created by the blacked-out B and C pillars and huge rear window.
The standard-issue “Toba” silver split five-spoke aluminum wheels pair nicely with the car’s lines and Ultimate Black metallic paint job ($600), but could stand to be at least an inch or two larger to better fill up the fender wells – there’s always the option for customers to refer to the accessories catalogue to size up.
For the 2016 model year, there are numerous styling updates such as an even bigger grille featuring a different mesh pattern, J-shaped LED daytime running lights embedded in the headlight housing unique to the XJ, chrome air blades in the lower front bumper air intakes, and re-sculpted LED rear taillights.
Highlights (as tested):
MSRP:$107,775
Motor:3.0-litre supercharged V6
Horsepower:340 @ 6,500 rpm
Torque (lb-ft):332 @ 3,550 rpm
Gearbox:ZF eight-speed automatic
Layout:Front engine, all-wheel drive
Fuel Economy:16.3 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)