Highlights
- An honest and well-preserved example of an X350 range topping long wheelbase car
- Fitted with every conceivable interior refinement and luxury
- Boasting a part service history and a record of diligent maintenance
The Appeal
The XJ350 arrived in 2003 to become the first Jaguar designed completely under Ford ownership. It represented a big step forward whilst remaining faithful to the proven XJ formula. The construction was all aluminium, and a new range of engines were showcased. Near the top of the engine hierarchy sat the 4.2L AJ-V8 unit fitted to this car. This sublime combination of luxury, refinement and performance made the long wheelbase versions an obvious choice for government ministers, senior police officers and other VIPs.
As a case in point, this example is reputed to have been initially supplied as official transport for a Chief Constable in the Midlands. This long, sleek car makes quite an entrance which only gets better on the inside. Complete with its model specific cherished number plate, this is a lot of car at a surprisingly attainable price point.
The History and Paperwork
- Accompanying documents suggest this car was handed over in November 2004
- The car was supplied directly by Jaguar Cars of Browns Lane
- This XJ was first registered in February 2005
- These facts help support the suggestion that this car was supplied to the police force
- It is rumoured that it was first used by a Chief Constable in the Midlands
- This is further supported by the SVP sticker in the driver’s door jamb
- This documents a Special Vehicle Preparations Ltd job number
- SVP are a company specialising in vehicle preparation for the blue light services
- The first owner retained the car until January 2009
- At that stage the XJ had covered around 100,000 miles
- The current owner acquired the car in May 2015 from an acquaintance
- The Jaguar had covered around 135,000 at that time
- The current owner bought the car to use for his daughter’s wedding
- As he liked the car so much it has remained in his car until now
- There is a good level of paperwork included with the Sovereign
- This includes the V5 in the name of the owner
- The current MOT is present and is valid until January 2024
- A good number of earlier MOTs are also present
- The original book pack is on hand and in its original Jaguar folder
- This includes the all-important service book
- This includes a full thirteen service stamps, most from Jaguar main dealers
- A number of maintenance invoices are present from the current ownership
The Interior
- The Sovereign’s interior is the definition of 2005 luxury and comfort
- The cabin is sumptuously trimmed in soft black leather
- Generous use of American walnut veneer accents further enhances the cabin
- Headlining and other trim is finished in complementary coloured Alcantara fabric
- Front seats are pristine and are 12-way electrically adjustable
- They are also heated in three stages and feature a three-setting memory function
- There is a small area of colour loss on the driver’s seat bolster
- The memory function also acts on the pedal and steering wheel adjustment
- The rear cabin is a real highlight with this LWB model optimised for rear passengers
- The three-stage heated rear seat controls are also housed between the front seats
- Privacy is ensured when required with rear window blinds all round
- The folding rear armrest contains cup holders, storage and the original Jaguar cell phone
- Needless to say, the rear cabin condition appears faultless
- Further interior refinements include sat nav and dual zone climate control
- An Alpine, 13 speaker, 400-watt audio system is fitted complete with Dolby Pro-Logic
- Another original cell phone is still fitted to the front arm rest lid, too
- The multifunction steering wheel exhibits a little wear and tear to the leather
- The owner suggest that the air conditioning will require a service
- The large boot is finished in deep grey carpet
- A DVD player, satellite navigation DVD unit and CD changer are fitted here
The Exterior
- Our example is presented in Metallic Slate Grey
- Its condition appears mostly, and a deep shine and ample metallic flake is mostly noted
- Some deterioration is noted to the bonnet which has become matt in finish
- The front end is fitted with Xenon headlights and the signature chromed grill
- A chromed Jaguar leaper is also present here
- Chromed trims are fitted to bumper covers and window surrounds
- The twin, oversized tailpipes are deeply chromed
- Our car rolls on 19-inch, forged and polished five-spoke alloy wheels
- These are in a good, overall condition throughout
- Some minor kerb rash is exhibited in places
- These are fitted with a matching set of quality Pirelli tyres
- Whilst not perfect, externally, the overall presentation of the XJ is very good
- The odd age-related chip and scratch is, of course, present
The Mechanics
- The This car is fitted with the 4.2L version of the acclaimed AJ-V8 engine
- This units is known for its refinement, smoothness and performance
- This unit was originally rated at 296 bhp and 247 Ib-ft of torque
- Power is fed to the rear wheels via a six-speed ZF automatic gearbox
- This specification gives this big car an impressive turn of speed
- Limited to 155mph and with a 0-60 time of around 6.6 seconds could be considered “ample”
- Our car has clearly been well cared for throughout its life
- The under-bonnet condition is good and highly original looking
- It would further benefit from a clean and detailing, however
- In the current ownership the owner has attended to anything needed
- This includes a full brake service, new thermostat and housing
- One of the self-levelling shock absorbers was also replaced
- As such, no known issues have been reported by the owner
Summary
The X350 represented a quantum leap in terms of specification and design when it was launched. With the financial muscle of the blue oval behind them, Jaguar could once again develop a car truly worthy of the revered XJ badge. This Jaguar Sovereign LWB model stands proud as the ultimate expression of that already lofty aspiration.
This is an honest and well cared for example with a, seemingly, intriguing provenance. Its condition is highly original, and it has stood the test of time and usage apparently very well. If you favour big saloons and limousines that offer a huge amount of car for the money, then this Sovereign should prove a strong contender.
Notice to bidders
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