2004 JAGUAR XJR 4.2 V8 4dr

The Jaguar XJR is the pinnacle of the British marque's performance saloons, blending potent supercharged V8 power with opulent luxury and an understated sporting presence. Known for its 'iron fist in a velvet glove' character, the XJR appeals to discerning buyers who desire blistering speed and an engaging driving experience without sacrificing the comfort and sophistication expected of a top-tier Jaguar. In the UK market, it holds a reputation as a performance icon, offering immense value as a used car compared to its original new price.

Why Buy a Used Jaguar XJR?

• Exceptional Performance: Equipped with a supercharged V8 engine, the XJR delivers thrilling acceleration and a sonorous exhaust note, providing an exhilarating driving experience.
• Understated Luxury: Despite its high performance, the XJR maintains a high level of luxury, comfort, and refinement, making it an excellent long-distance cruiser.
• Timeless Design: Across its generations, the XJR has always boasted elegant, classic British styling that stands out with a sophisticated yet muscular aesthetic.
• Attainable Used Value: Due to significant depreciation from new, a used XJR offers incredible performance and luxury for a fraction of its original cost, making it a compelling high-performance bargain.

Typical Price Range

All prices are approximate and subject to change based on condition, mileage, specification, and market conditions.

• 1997–2003 (X308): £8,000 – £15,000 — At this price, you'll find well-preserved examples of the classic X308 generation, offering strong performance and traditional Jaguar charm.
• 2003–2009 (X350): £12,000 – £20,000 — These aluminium-bodied XJRs provide a more modern driving experience with improved handling and technology, representing a great blend of old and new.
• 2010–2019 (X351): £20,000 – £38,000 — For this budget, you can get the sleek, contemporary X351 generation, boasting advanced infotainment, potent engines, and a striking design.

Common Issues to Check

• Supercharger Reliability: Listen for unusual noises from the supercharger, particularly bearing whine or isolator coupling wear, which can be costly to repair.
• Air Suspension (X350/X351): Check for error messages, uneven ride height, or a 'sagging' appearance, indicating potential faults with the air springs, compressor, or sensors.
• Timing Chain Tensioners (X308 4.0L): Early 4.0-litre engines in the X308 generation are known for plastic timing chain tensioners that can fail; ensure these have been updated to metal items.
• Electrical Gremlins: Test all electrical components, including infotainment, electric windows, climate control, and dashboard lights, as Jaguar saloons can occasionally suffer from complex electrical issues.
• Brake Wear: Due to the XJR's powerful engine and substantial weight, check for excessive wear on brake pads and discs, as replacements can be expensive for performance-oriented components.

Running Costs

• Fuel Economy: Typically 15–25 mpg combined, depending on generation and driving style, due to the powerful supercharged V8 engine.
• Insurance Group: Very high, usually Group 45-50, reflecting its performance capabilities and high new cost.
• Servicing: Can be expensive, especially with specialist parts and labour required for the supercharged engine and complex electronics; regular maintenance is vital.

Which Variant Should I Choose?

• XJR (X308, 1997-2003): Perfect for the purist who appreciates classic Jaguar styling, a more traditional interior, and the raw, supercharged 4.0-litre V8 experience.
• XJR (X350, 2003-2009): An excellent choice for those seeking a more agile and refined drive, benefiting from its lightweight aluminium construction and the robust 4.2-litre supercharged engine.
• XJR (X351, 2010-2015): Ideal for buyers wanting modern luxury, a visually striking exterior, and advanced technology, powered by the formidable 5.0-litre supercharged V8.
• XJR (X351, 2015-2019 facelift): Offers subtle exterior enhancements and updated infotainment over earlier X351 models, providing the most contemporary XJR experience before the model's discontinuation.
• XJR575 (2017-2019): The ultimate performance variant of the XJR, delivering 575PS and enhanced styling; it's the choice for those who demand the absolute peak of XJR power and exclusivity.

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