2005 Jaguar XJ8 LWB Preview

The XJ LWB will be available with all engine selections in Jaguar's range, excluding the V6. Reasons for this decision are simple - the LWB is the most prestigious luxury sedan in the marque's range, therefore only top-tier motors should be reserved for it. Weight

With the XJ LWB at the head of Jagaur's prestigious lineup, naturally only the best engines will do. (Photo: Jaguar Canada)

and the resultant lack of performance, which used to be issues on long wheelbase cars, are no longer concerns thanks to the car's lightweight construction. The smallest V8 is a 258 horsepower 3.5 liter unit only available in Europe. Next on the list is the automaker's 298 horsepower 4.2-liter V8 also featured in the regular length XJ8, as well as the XK8 and the S-Type V8. Jaguar is even making the range-topping 400 horsepower supercharged R-model engine available, not the norm in long-wheelbase

All the lengthening done to the XJ LWB has naturally been for a single purpose, to increase rear passenger room. (Photo: Jaguar Canada)

models. Regardless of displacement, all engines are equipped with a six-speed ZF automatic gearbox shifted via the brand's instantly recognizable J-gate gearbox.

As the long-wheelbase XJ concentrates on delivering additional rear-seat passenger comfort, the changes made reflect its purpose. The additional length has been used wisely, of course put into creating a remarkable 961 mm (37.8 inches) of floor space between the front seats and the base of the back seat. But the new model isn't only about first class legroom, there's also the option of first-class shoulder room. The XJ LWB can be had in two guises, as a five-seater with a plush sofa-like bench, or as a contoured four-seater. What's more, the individual rear seats are power adjustable and heated. This is nothing new, of course, for long-wheelbase models, with some of its rivals offering air-conditioned rear seats with optional vibrating massage.