Luxury buyers will have more options to choose from with the 2013 Jaguar XJ and 2013 Jaguar XF, as a new 3.0L supercharged V6 engine comes paired with an all-wheel drive system.
Jaguar is introducing the V6 engine to increase fuel efficiency across their model line. The V6 replaces the behemoth 5.0L V8 engine that was previously available, supercharged to 340 horsepower while still returning 28 mpg highway.
The all-wheel drive spent 18 months in testing on the frozen lakes of Northern Sweden to hone its traction control while still maintaining the feline agility we’ve come to expect. It works by pre-loading torque to the front wheels as the car begins moving, then seamlessly – in Jaguar’s words – transitions power to the rear as speed increases. Up to 50-percent of total power can be directed to the front wheels, while the car will still be powered mainly by the rear wheels.
Jaguar also sees an opportunity to creep into lucrative luxury sales, as 80-percent of luxury car sales in the northern United States include AWD models. Will the addition of all-wheel drive make Jaguar more competitive with the Audi A8.
In addition to the new V6 and all-wheel drive options, the 2013 Jaguar XF also welcomes a new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with direct injection and variable valve timing. The smaller powerplant will still produce 240 horsepower and has a slight efficiency advantage over the V6 with 29 mpg highway.
In the performance XFR sedan, a new Speed Pack is available with suspension and aerodynamic enhancements to keep the car firmly planted in the corners. Top speed is unlocked from 155 mph to 174 mph, and interior goodies join the model in the form of upgraded navigation and a premium Meridian audio system.
The 2013 Jaguar XJ sports the new V6 and all-wheel drive, but unlike the XF, it continues the 5.0L V8 engine for the new model year. Two supercharged V8 engines are also available, plus only 30 examples of the 2013 Jaguar XJL Ultimate will be produced. A new Speed Pack is available for the XJ Supersport and a Sport & Speed Pack is offered on the XJ Supercharged, unlocking the top speed to 174 mph.
*
Visit the autoMedia.com Jaguar Research Center for quick access to reviews, pricing, photos, mpg and more. Make sure to follow autoMedia.com on Twitter and Facebook.
Sign up for 2013 Jaguar F-Type E-mail Updates
Jaguar - Official Website
Find Your Local Jaguar Dealer
