The Jaguar Xjr has a storied lineage, with the first model appearing in 1994 as a supercharged variant of the X300 XJ series. Then came the X308 in 1998, boasting both a supercharger and a V8 engine. While both were impressive in their own right, the Jaguar XJR we’re focusing on today is the one introduced in 2003, the X350.
At first glance, the X350 Jaguar XJR might seem…underwhelming. It resembled a slightly taller and more upright version of its predecessor, perhaps a touch more spacious but arguably less elegant. It didn’t scream performance or innovation. However, beneath this seemingly ordinary exterior lay a revolution in automotive engineering. The X350 Jaguar XJR was, to my knowledge, the first mass-production road car to feature an entirely aluminum monocoque chassis.
This groundbreaking construction meant that despite being larger in every dimension than the X308 – nearly 100mm longer and a significant 148mm taller – the XJR version weighed in at a mere 1,665kg. This was an astounding 172kg lighter than the previous, smaller model. To put this into perspective, this full-size Jaguar limousine, equipped with a potent 4.2-liter supercharged V8, weighed less than a modern Jaguar XE, even the 2.0-liter diesel variant. This weight saving was transformative for performance and handling.
The unassuming appearance of the X350 Jaguar XJR often belied its true capabilities. Why did it look so conservative? While there’s no definitive answer beyond industry whispers, it’s believed that the design’s genesis lay with Jaguar’s former chief designer, the esteemed Geoff Lawson. Sadly, Lawson passed away unexpectedly in 1999 at a young age. Respect for his final design meant that significant alterations were likely deemed inappropriate, leading to the car’s understated aesthetic.
Driving the X350 Jaguar XJR was always a surprising experience. Its performance was genuinely improbable for a car of its stature. While it might not outpace a Porsche 911 of the same era in a head-to-head sprint, it was certainly quick enough to challenge one and demand considerable effort from the Porsche driver to maintain the lead. The performance wasn’t just limited to straight lines. The X350’s aluminum structure wasn’t just lighter; it was also 50 percent stiffer than the X308. This dramatically improved handling, making it a far more engaging driver’s car than its looks suggested. Against all expectations, the X350 Jaguar XJR was a true enthusiast’s machine.
The X350’s lifespan was cut short in 2009, largely due to its conservative styling. Its successor, the X351, adopted a dramatically different approach with modern styling penned by Ian Callum. However, beneath the striking new skin, the core engineering remained surprisingly similar, a testament to the advanced technology already present in the X350.
Considering a used X350 Jaguar XJR today requires a degree of caution. While the supercharged V8 engine is generally robust if properly maintained, there are potential issues to be aware of. Common problems include expensive air suspension failures, torque converter issues in high-mileage gearboxes, paint corrosion particularly around the rear screen and door bottoms, and costly brake component replacements due to Jaguar’s choice of high-performance Brembo brakes for the XJR. However, for those willing to address these potential maintenance points, the X350 Jaguar XJR offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and surprising agility, all wrapped in an understated package. It remains a fascinating and somewhat undervalued piece of Jaguar history.
