The Jaguar XJ Long (X351) 5.0 V8 Supercharged Automatic, produced from 2009 to 2012, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the XJ range. As part of the fourth generation (X351) of the iconic XJ series, the Long wheelbase model offered extended rear legroom, catering to chauffeur-driven executives and those prioritizing rear passenger comfort. This variant, equipped with the supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as the flagship model, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the naturally aspirated V8 and diesel options available. The X351 generation marked a departure from the traditional Jaguar styling, embracing a more contemporary and sculpted design language.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jaguar |
| Model | XJ |
| Generation | XJ Long (X351) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 V8 Supercharged (510 Hp) Automatic 6-speed |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 18.3 l/100 km (12.9 US mpg, 15.4 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 289 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.8 kg/Hp, 266.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 326.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 510 Hp @ 6000-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102 Hp/l |
| Torque | 625 Nm @ 2500-5500 rpm (460.98 lb.-ft. @ 2500-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 508PS |
| Engine displacement | 5000 cm3 (305.12 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.25 l (7.66 US qt | 6.38 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1915 kg (4221.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2390 kg (5269.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 5252 mm (206.77 in.) |
| Width | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1950 mm (76.77 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2105 mm (82.87 in.) |
| Height | 1457 mm (57.36 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3157 mm (124.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 380 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 376 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/45 R19; 245/40 R20 Rear wheel tires: 275/40 R19; 275/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 9J x 19; 9J x 20 Rear wheel rims: 10J x 19; 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the XJ Long 5.0 V8 Supercharged lay Jaguar’s AJ-V8 engine, specifically the 508PS variant. This 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated V8 was augmented by a Roots-type supercharger, boosting power output to 510 horsepower and 625 Nm (460.98 lb-ft) of torque. The engine featured direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and an intercooler to manage intake air temperatures. The engine code, 508PS, is a key identifier for this specific configuration. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, was calibrated to provide smooth yet responsive shifts, complementing the engine’s power delivery. This transmission was known for its reliability and ability to handle the high torque output of the supercharged V8.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the supercharged V8 and the six-speed automatic resulted in exhilarating performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 4.7 seconds, with a limited top speed of 155 mph. The supercharger provided instant throttle response, delivering a surge of power across the rev range. While the automatic transmission wasn’t as engaging as a manual gearbox, it offered seamless gear changes and made the XJ Long a comfortable and effortless grand tourer. The long wheelbase contributed to a more refined ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Compared to the naturally aspirated V8 models, the supercharged variant offered a significantly more potent driving experience, while the automatic transmission prioritized convenience over outright driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XJ Long 5.0 V8 Supercharged came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included premium leather upholstery, wood veneer trim, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a high-end audio system. Rear passengers benefited from individual climate control, power-adjustable rear seats with massage function, and rear-seat entertainment options. Optional extras included upgraded leather packages, bespoke interior finishes, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.
Chassis & Braking
The XJ Long featured an all-aluminum chassis, contributing to its relatively low weight despite its size. The suspension system consisted of coil springs and double wishbones at the front, and an independent multi-link setup with air suspension at the rear. The air suspension provided adjustable ride height and damping, allowing drivers to tailor the ride quality to their preferences. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The XJ Long also incorporated ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control for enhanced safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The XJ Long 5.0 V8 Supercharged was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and refined ride quality. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, with combined fuel consumption figures around 19.4 US mpg. Compared to the naturally aspirated V8 and diesel variants, the supercharged model offered significantly more performance but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The XJ Long competed with other luxury sedans such as the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Audi A8.
Legacy
The Jaguar XJ Long (X351) 5.0 V8 Supercharged remains a desirable luxury car in the used market. The supercharged V8 engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. The ZF six-speed automatic transmission is also known for its durability. While the X351 generation XJ is now superseded by newer models, it continues to offer a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and British craftsmanship. The car’s aluminum construction and advanced features have helped it age gracefully, and well-maintained examples command respectable prices.
