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Saloon

Jaguars are consistently among the best-handling cars of their kind, with the firm’s model range encompassing the XE, XF and XJ saloons, the F-Type sports cars and multiple SUVs.

Jaguar was actually relatively late to launch its first SUV, the F-Pace, but it quickly followed it up with the smaller E-Pace and the all-electric I-Pace.

That SUV range will keep growing, too, with larger and more luxurious SUVs planned to take on the Porsche Cayenne and the Range Rover from sister brand Land Rover.

JAGUAR

It's refined and comfortable, but possibly a little 'old hat' for some people

Used Jaguar XJ Saloon 1997 - 2003

How much have you got? If you want a bit of luxury, but don't have the resources to sustain such an indulgence, you should maybe consider buying a smaller executive car like the S-Type instead.

It's not buying an XJ that's the problem, though - poor residuals have put the XJ firmly in the Ôaffordable' bracket - but you need to make a long-term financial commitment to run one.

Insurance costs are punitive: the 3.2-litre is in group 16 and the 4.0-litre is in groups 17-19. Frugality? The stats tell you you may get 24mpg, but that's with a whole lot of downhill roads with the wind behind you. Don't expect to get much more than 20mpg, and don't be surprised if it's just 17mpg.

This car isn't cheap to fix, either: Jaguar is among the costliest of all manufacturers for servicing. However, you'll be unlucky if an XJ goes wrong - Jaguar is among the top performers in the Warranty Direct reliability survey.

It's refined and comfortable, but possibly a little 'old hat' for some people

Earlier models are cramped in the rear and lack generous boot space, so give them a miss.

The smallest V8 engine in the XJ range is the 3.2-litre unit. It produces 240bhp, will propel you from 0-60mph in 7.8sec and take you to a top speed of 145mph. Which, to be honest, is plenty for most people.

That said, however, it is overshadowed by the 4.0-litre model, which takes you from 0-60mph in just 6sec. It's impressively quick in a straight line, and handles well enough to give its rivals a run for their money.

It's probably best to steer clear of the awesome XJR. This flagship high-performance version has a top speed of 155mph and manages 0-60mph in 5sec, but it's not exactly nimble, and as a result the brakes take a hammering.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plush ride and the ability to cruise in near-silence </li> <li>Powerful and efficient engine</li> <li>Space for passengers to stretch out in the rear seats</li> <li>Exquisite materials and build quality</li> <li>Endless luxuries on the options list</li> <li>Sensible fuel and tax bills</li></ul>

If you’re in the market for a luxury car, you’ll be after a sumptuous interior, a ride that can soak up the worst of the UK’s pockmarked roads and supreme refinement that allows you to travel at speed in near-silence.

Luxury

It's vital to buy a car with a service history, as there have been a number of recalls. 1998 XJs had problems with throttles not opening properly, and some 1999 cars had transmission glitches that caused them to lock up.

You should also check - or get someone else to check - that the throttle is not fouling the underbonnet liner and that the power steering pipe is not chafing the alternator terminals. Be aware that the front suspension bushes need replacing every 25,000 miles and, on an XJR, make sure the brakes are in good order.

Despite all that - and, you'd be forgiven for having second thoughts about the big Jag - XJs have actually proved generally pretty sound an reliable. In a recent JD Power survey, Jaguar was the top British marque, and it fared well in the Warranty Direct reliability league

A well equipped cabin complements the XJ's all-aluminium body to deliver a beautiful luxury car. It has proved a reliable charger, but the switchgear feels low-rent when compared with German luxury cars'.

The air suspension gives perfect poise, combining a comfortable ride with good handling. And, inside, the XJ's all wood, leather and chrome. It's like a belligerent old headmaster - stuck in its ways, but still commanding respect. Upgraded models have touch-screen satellite-navigation, cruise control and electric memory front seats.

Don't worry that you'll be short-changed by chosing the cheapest model. Even the entry level model gives owners enough power to feel satisfied.

The older examples feel cramped, though, but thankfully Jaguar addressed this with the introduction of a longer-wheelbase car in 2000, giving rear-seat passengers an extra four inches of legroom.

Used Jaguar XJ Saloon 1997 - 2003 reliability

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Used Jaguar XJ Saloon 1997 - 2003 review

It's vital to buy a car with a service history, as there have been a number of recalls. 1998 XJs had problems with throttles not opening properly, and some 1999 cars had transmission glitches that caused them to lock up.,You should also check - or get someone else to check - that the throttle is not fouling the underbonnet liner and that the power steering pipe is not chafing the alternator terminals. Be aware that the front suspension bushes need replacing every 25,000 miles and, on an XJR, make sure the brakes are in good order.,Despite all that - and, you'd be forgiven for having second thoughts about the big Jag - XJs have actually proved generally pretty sound an reliable. In a recent JD Power survey, Jaguar was the top British marque, and it fared well in the Warranty Direct reliability league

What to look for when buying a Jaguar XJ 1997 - 2003, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability.

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Used Jaguar XJ Saloon 1997 - 2003 reliability

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