Longer is Better
Jaguar just wouldn't be Jaguar if the title "LWB" wasn't attached the XJ designation of its largest car. Long-wheelbase models are standard fare in the full-size prestige car segment. They bear the best luxury features, gizmos and gadgets, plus all that extra room for those who ride in the rear.
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| The XJ has been the backbone of Jaguar's lineup, therefore it was only fitting that the British automaker has come up with a new "LWB" version to carry forward tradition. (Photo: Jaguar Canada) |
The Jaguar XJ, introduced only a short year ago, has helped take the brand forward into the new world of lightweight aluminum construction technology. For years the XJ was the backbone of the company, providing style, grace and elegance, but now it's much more than just Connolly leather and bird's eye maple. Offering the best in engines and transmissions, the XJ is testament that Jaguar is just as established in the world of high-tech as Audi, BMW or Mercedes-Benz.
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| Although the XJ8 LWB has increased in both length and height, it still is a class lightweight thanks to its aluminum construction. (Photo: Jaguar Canada) |
At the New York International Auto Show last week, the marque followed through on their swing with the requisite XJ8 LWB. But making a long-wheelbase car is no easy task, regardless of car type or construction. Aside from the fundamental worries of structural rigidity and excessive weight, much of the car must be re-crafted including the roof and doors.
With the XJ8 LWB, the wheelbase has been stretched a remarkable 125 mm (4.9 inches) bringing the wheelbase to a length of 3.16 meters (122.8 inches), and the overall length of 5.22 meters (205.5 inches). To keep the engineering costs down, the additional length has been added only to the portion of the car after the B-pillar. At the same time, the roof has also been raised by just 7.0 mm (0.28 inches). With all the changes, included the added length, the XJ LWB weighs just 20 kilograms (44 pounds) more than the regular wheelbase version. Jaguar's choice to use aluminum as a construction material has kept this grand looking cat a class lightweight.