The Jaguar XJ Long (X351) 5.0 V8 Supercharged Automatic, produced from 2012 to 2013, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the XJ range. As part of the X351 generation, which debuted in 2009, 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 and an eight-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 in the lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jaguar |
| Model | XJ |
| Generation | XJ Long (X351) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 V8 Supercharged (510 Hp) Automatic 8-speed |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 16.9 l/100 km (13.9 US mpg, 16.7 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 270 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 | 3.7 kg/Hp, 271.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 332.4 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 | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 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 | 1899 mm (74.76 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 | 8 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 AJ133 engine, a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 augmented by a Roots-type supercharger. This engine, designated as the 508PS variant, produced 510 horsepower at 6000-6500 rpm and a substantial 625 Nm (460.98 lb-ft) of torque between 2500 and 5500 rpm. The engine featured direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and an intercooler to manage the heat generated by the supercharger. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, was a crucial component, providing smooth and rapid gear changes. This transmission offered a wide range of gear ratios, optimizing both acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the supercharged V8 and the eight-speed automatic resulted in exhilarating performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 4.7 seconds, and the car was electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The supercharger provided instant throttle response, delivering a surge of power at any engine speed. While the automatic transmission offered convenience, it didn’t quite match the engagement of a manual gearbox. However, the transmission’s Sport mode sharpened shift points and provided more aggressive downshifts. The long wheelbase contributed to a comfortable ride, but also slightly diminished agility compared to the standard wheelbase XJ.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XJ Long 5.0 V8 Supercharged came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. These included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Optional extras included upgraded leather trims, executive rear seating packages with individual climate control and massage functions, and various bespoke customization options. The interior design emphasized elegance and craftsmanship, with wood veneers and chrome accents throughout the cabin.
Chassis & Braking
The XJ Long utilized a lightweight aluminum chassis, contributing to its relatively low curb weight of 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs). The suspension system featured coil springs, double wishbones at the front, and an independent multi-link setup with air suspension at the rear. This air suspension system provided a remarkably smooth ride and allowed for adjustable ride height. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, measuring 380mm at the front and 376mm at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, ensuring safe and controlled stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The XJ Long 5.0 V8 Supercharged was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, its fuel economy (11.6 l/100 km combined) was considered relatively high, even for a large luxury sedan. Compared to the naturally aspirated V8 and diesel variants, the supercharged model offered significantly more performance but came at a higher price point. The supercharged engine also demanded more frequent and potentially more expensive maintenance.
Legacy
The Jaguar XJ Long 5.0 V8 Supercharged remains a desirable used car, appreciated for its blend of luxury, performance, and British craftsmanship. The AJ133 engine, while known for its power, requires diligent maintenance to prevent oil leaks and timing chain issues. The ZF eight-speed automatic transmission has proven to be remarkably reliable. Today, these cars represent a significant value proposition for buyers seeking a high-performance luxury sedan with a distinctive character. The X351 generation, and particularly the supercharged variants, helped to re-establish Jaguar as a serious contender in the luxury car market.
