A luxury limousine needs no explanation. Transporting celebrities, top executives, very important people (VIP) and family members in ultimate comfort and luxury is the name of the game for these flagship sedans. Here are two of them.

First introduced in 1994, Audi's flagship A8 is remembered as the first mass-market car with a weight-saving aluminium chassis known as the Audi Space Frame. Recently redesigned, the A8 is ready to stake its claim amongst the top of a competitive segment with its handsome styling, fine-tuned engineering and futuristic interior technology.

On the other hand, the Jaguar XJ has a longer history. The big British cat's illustrious past goes all the way back to 1968 and the XJ is also one of the official cars for the British royal family and the U.K. Prime Minister.


Exterior

Audi has played a fine balance of subtlety and elegance for the styling of the A8 with a certain macho look to the car.

Providing visual drama are the oversized grille that also lends some aggression while the new Matrix LED headlights as well as the new dynamic signal indicators (first seen on the R8), complement the modern and contemporary looking sheet metal.

Measuring 5,265mm x 1,949mm x 1,471mm (L x W x H), the long wheelbase variant of the A8 is 13mm longer, 50mm wider and 14mm taller than the XJ. But it is the XJ that garners a little more road presence.


Thanks to its striking lines and visual touches, the big cat stands out among its tamer rival. The exterior of the XJ is stunning. Its defined front end, swooping roofline and raked rear window are tastefully done and command respect.

Rolling along the streets, the XJ has an immediate appeal. Its crouching-feline exterior design makes the car look as if it can pounce any time - enhanced by the XJ's swooping taillights that mimic cat claws.