In the number war, more often than not, it is those who boast larger, stronger digits that win the battle. The same applies in the automotive industry, where carmakers fight to flaunt greater figures, such as in the fields of engine capacity, horsepower, etc, to get a bigger share of the pie.
But more recently, the contest seems to have taken a U-turn. With strict emission regulations in place, smaller is better. While Germans have played first hand on our shores with their extensive range of downsized engines, it seems that the British are hot on their heels.
And if this is a game of poker, Jaguar may have just played 'show hand' by fitting a tiny 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit in its full-sized luxury sedan.
Up close and Personal
You will not be able to tell this is the base XJ variant, which sports the smallest engine in its class, from its exterior. Since its inception, we have been fans of the XJ's artful and elegant design, and it feels like it hasn't aged much despite it being launched more than five years ago.
But more recently, the contest seems to have taken a U-turn. With strict emission regulations in place, smaller is better. While Germans have played first hand on our shores with their extensive range of downsized engines, it seems that the British are hot on their heels.
And if this is a game of poker, Jaguar may have just played 'show hand' by fitting a tiny 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit in its full-sized luxury sedan.
Up close and Personal
You will not be able to tell this is the base XJ variant, which sports the smallest engine in its class, from its exterior. Since its inception, we have been fans of the XJ's artful and elegant design, and it feels like it hasn't aged much despite it being launched more than five years ago.
And even with its length cut by 125mm (compared to its long wheelbase (LWB) brother), the car still has a lot of presence on the road, which is essential for a flagship sedan and definitely a trait that towkays will be looking out for.
You'll also be delighted to know that Jaguar hasn't scrimped on the base variant's interior. It still comes packed with a long list of accessories, such as power boot lid, soft-close doors, twin glass roofs and ventilated rear seats, which means it is still a 'proper' limousine.
This is more impressive when you consider that it costs $10k and $60k cheaper than the next-in-line 3.0-litre Diesel and the 3.0-litre petrol LWB variant respectively.
You'll also be delighted to know that Jaguar hasn't scrimped on the base variant's interior. It still comes packed with a long list of accessories, such as power boot lid, soft-close doors, twin glass roofs and ventilated rear seats, which means it is still a 'proper' limousine.
This is more impressive when you consider that it costs $10k and $60k cheaper than the next-in-line 3.0-litre Diesel and the 3.0-litre petrol LWB variant respectively.
The Drive
Admittedly, the XJ's drive isn't one of the most spirited in its segment. But when driven in a less hurried manner (which we reckon is how limousines should be driven), the XJ is as refined as its bigger-capacity siblings. In fact, it feels like it doesn't require additional power.
Part credits go to the lightweight aluminium construction, which helps the XJ 2.0 attain a kerb weight of 1,660kg. Putting it into better perspective, the base XJ is just 5kg heavier than the smaller Mercedes-Benz E200 saloon.
The comfort-inclined suspension, however, means that there's less fun to be had at the helm. Attacking corners in an over-enthusiastic manner will also induce chassis roll, which isn't confident-inspiring for the driver.
Admittedly, the XJ's drive isn't one of the most spirited in its segment. But when driven in a less hurried manner (which we reckon is how limousines should be driven), the XJ is as refined as its bigger-capacity siblings. In fact, it feels like it doesn't require additional power.
Part credits go to the lightweight aluminium construction, which helps the XJ 2.0 attain a kerb weight of 1,660kg. Putting it into better perspective, the base XJ is just 5kg heavier than the smaller Mercedes-Benz E200 saloon.
The comfort-inclined suspension, however, means that there's less fun to be had at the helm. Attacking corners in an over-enthusiastic manner will also induce chassis roll, which isn't confident-inspiring for the driver.
But you are less likely to hear such grumbles from the XJ's occupants, especially from those at the rear. Helped by the creamily-smooth eight-speed transmission, the ride is still as comfortable and sleep-inducing as you'd expect of a luxury sedan.
Conclusion
It is obvious that the XJ's luxury traits are not undermined by its 'budget-inclined' small engine, which dishes out proper performance, even for the full-sized sedan, on our cityscape.
It is no doubt a gamble for Jaguar to place the less inspiring unit in its flagship model. But judging from our short test drive, we reckon that it is a wise bet.
Conclusion
It is obvious that the XJ's luxury traits are not undermined by its 'budget-inclined' small engine, which dishes out proper performance, even for the full-sized sedan, on our cityscape.
It is no doubt a gamble for Jaguar to place the less inspiring unit in its flagship model. But judging from our short test drive, we reckon that it is a wise bet.
