by Dan Lyons

The idea in a long, luxury sedan is the same as a stretch limo: make the back seat so comfortable that you can work or relax or generally not care how long the trip is. Jaguar’s 2006 XJ Long Wheelbase models have this covered nicely, but they add another wrinkle, too. The fun-to-drive factor forces the owner into a tough decision. Take the wheel, or take a seat?

Jaguar created this dilemma last year when they added Long Wheelbase models to the seventh generation XJ sedans. Extending the wheelbase five inches resulted in, uh, five inches (thank you, fingers) of extra leg room in back. Now, that may not sound like a lot, but as someone who spends a lot of time folded into airplanes, with knees jammed against the seat in front of me, the Jag-U-Ar’s 39.3” of leg room in back is absolutely decadent.

Five XJ models are offered for 2006, along with one limited edition. Four of the six are available in Long Wheelbase versions: XJ8L, the ultra-posh Vanden Plas, the highly zoomy Super V8 and the scarce, Super V8 Portfolio (more about that later). All provide spacious, luxurious rear quarters, with Jaguar standards like a fine cuts of leather and carpet, individual climate controls, fold down, wood picnic/business trays and options like a DVD multi-media entertainment system, with a 400 watt, seven channel sound system.

Wonderful stuff, but if you can drag yourself away from the back cabin accommodations, the front row is none too shabby either. Think British pub with less warm beer and more switches and dials. Wood and leather mingle agreeably, and cabin controls are all within easy reach. Bluetooth wireless technology is now part of the standard electronics package, and Sirius satellite radio is optional.

Normally, a step up in vehicle size means a step down in performance, a trend happily bucked by this Jaguar. The new generation XJ LWB’s are just 53 lb. heavier than the short platform cars. And, lest you think that the longer cats are less agile on their paws, I’m here to tell you that it’s not so. However, you need not take my word for it. I had occasion to jump in alongside Sir Jackie Stewart as he put an XJ LWB through its paces on an autocross course last year. Stewart, who in his Sixties still drives with a smoothness that would shame silk, left no doubt that the big Jag can be driven with as much haste as you to care to make.

Even more so this year, as all XJ models pick up additional power. Naturally aspirated models now make 300 hp (up from 294) while supercharged versions have been bumped up to 400 hp (up from 390).

More go, matched by more whoa. 2006 models have larger disc brakes and a new, tire pressure monitoring system, too.

Fans of peace and quiet will appreciate that there’s more of both this year. The car’s sound pack has been beefed up with added insulation in the dash, bulkhead, hood and driveline tunnel. The combination of this added damping and flush, laminated windshield and side glass make a three decibel improvement in interior noise levels.

2006 brings a couple of minor, visual changes to the XJ’s elegant form. Two new wheel styles have been added and now all models get a mesh grille. I disagree with the latter change, but not because it looks disagreeable - far from it. But, a mesh grille on a Jaguar used to be reserved for supercharged cars. It was a subtle sign and a suggestion, if seen in your rear view mirror, that it might be a good time to pull into the slow lane. Now, all models look a little more special, but some special cars look a little less so.

Undoubtedly special is the Super V8 Portfolio – a high bling, low volume model that will be available only in 2006. Based on the Concept Eight show car, the Portfolio is essentially a semi-custom Super V8 model. Color choices are either Winter Gold or Black Cherry, and they’re set off by five spoke, 20” Callisto alloy wheels on the corners, and a pair of wide mouth chrome tailpipe tips in back. Air vents on front fenders are trimmed in bright aluminum.

Inside, an exceptional grade of leather wraps seats and steering wheel. It’s four place bucket seating in the cabin, with each pair of chairs straddling a center console. All of the above is accented by the best looking wood trim I’ve seen in an automobile in many a moon. The American Black Walnut veneers are high class and low gloss. The latter is unique. Almost all trim these days is so highly polished that you can’t tell the real stuff from plastic without a woodpecker.

Long Wheelbase models start at $64,995. Packed with just about every option imaginable, the Super Portfolio will sticker for $115,330. If that price tag didn’t make you blink, you may also be interested to know that these cars will be exceedingly rare. Just 145 will be built for sale in the U.S., reducing the odds that you’ll ever see another one parked next to you at Saratoga National to near zero.

The latest generation XJ’s have become major players in the large premium segment. They boast innovative, aluminum monocoque construction, fine build quality and cozy, den-like interiors. And, they’re shot through with “Jaguarness”; a combination of supple performance and a racing pedigree that few cars can match. The Long Wheelbase versions have become very popular for Jaguar, comprising 66% of all XJ sales. It’s easy to see why. They add the luxury of added room, while taking away none of the zoom. In the process, they also pose a tough question. Drive, or be driven?

Number and Dollars
2006 Jaguar XJ long wheelbase models
XJ8 L* Vanden Plas* Super V8 Super 8 Portfolio
MSRP: $64,995 $74,995 $91,995 $115,995

Drivetrains
Engine: 4.2 litre V-8 *
Horsepower: 300 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 310 lb. ft. @ 4,100 rpm
Engine: 4.2 litre V-8, supercharged, intercooled
Horsepower: 400 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Torque: 413 lb. Ft. @ 3,500 rpm
Transmission: six speed automatic

Weights and Measures
Wheelbase: 124.4" Height: 57.3”
Length: 205.3” Weight: 5,678 lb.
Width: 83.0”

Interior
Head Room: 38.4” f, 38.6” r Leg Room: 43.1” f, 39.3” r
Trunk: 16.4 cubic feet

Chassis
Suspension: Independent, F & R
Brakes: Four wheel disc, ABS

Mileage
EPA city/highway mpg - 18/27*, 17/24

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