Jaguar X350 Series (2003 - 06) Buyers Guide

Date: 10.05.2011

jaguar x350 buyer's guide

jaguar x350 buyer's guide

jaguar x350 buyer's guide

jaguar x350 buyer's guide

The good oil on the 2003-06 Jaguar X350 XJ6 3.0, XJ8 3.5/4.2, XJR/Super V8 4.2 Supercharged

Jaguar X350

Jaguar X350 Series (2003 - 06)

Set to be the last all Jaguar model styled along the original XJ6 theme, the clean sheet X350 series launched locally in June 2003 was the most advanced and reliable Jaguar sedan ever yet looked little different from its predecessor.

As prestige rivals from this era date without the Jaguar's classic appeal, this may yet prove to be a plus. Advanced all-aluminium unitary structure and body panels are very different to the Audi A8's aluminium panels over space frame design.

"Choice of repairer" is more critical than usual with riveted and epoxy-bonded structure. Key magnesium components added to a weight saving of over 200kg with a 60 per cent boost in stiffness leaving an unrivalled 1615kg mass for a big, top shelf V8 luxury car. Verdict was smoother, more agile and better economy than expected but less bump-flattening ability than earlier, heavier Jaguars. Bigger base 3.5-litre V8 engine boosted output to 196kW/345Nm while 4.2-litre option offered 224kW/420Nm at lower revs for the best performance/fuel economy compromise. Supercharged 4.2 available in sporty XJR or luxury Super V8 boasted 298kW/553Nm for healthy power to weight ratio. Simplified range left one fully-equipped non-turbo XJ8 level with choice of 3.5 and 4.2 V8. New ZF six-speed auto, adaptive cruise control and stability control were standard from launch. An entry level XJ6 3.0 V6 with 179kW/300Nm slashed $20,000 from XJ8 3.5 price after March 2004 with little loss in performance. Desirable long wheelbase versions of the XJ8 4.2 and Super V8 were added in January 2005 but are very rare.

PRICES:

Freefall of big V8 prestige saloons have brought earlier X350 examples down into $50,000 range for unprecedented value with 3.5 and 4.2 versions fetching similar prices. Economy choice XJ6 3.0 sells just below equivalent V8. Towering performance and rarity of supercharged models can add $20,000 and extra fuel consumption.

CHECKPOINTS

Early V8 bore and timing chain problems were well behind the X350 but the engine must have the best quality synthetic oil changed on a regular basis so the valve gear can operate correctly and not confuse the engine computer.

Active computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension has many components including a compressor that will ultimately wear out and not hold pressure. Make sure that it changes ride height and reacts exactly as intended.

Six-speed auto is reliable but check that shifts are smooth and there are no fluid leaks.

Expensive leather, wood and chrome interior needs to be checked carefully for damage or scratches as each item is expensive.

Checking crash and repair history is absolutely critical when damaged aluminium structural and crush sections must be cut out and replaced using the original space age technology.

All alloy engine must have a documented coolant history using premium coolant. Check that engine heats up quickly then holds its temperature as the thermostat is a routine replacement item.

Classy clear coat finish on every panel and bumper section needs to be checked for consistent finish and poor repairs. Aluminium panels are vulnerable to car park dings and not easily fixed.

Thanks to Mike Roddy Motors www.mikeroddy.com.au

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