The last significant update for the Jaguar XJ luxury sedan came in 2016, and since then the company's flagship product is rumored to be tuned in to an electric sedan. Now, according to reports, Jaguar has confirmed that they will go ahead and electrify the next generation XJ, which will be launched by end of 2018 or early 2019. The launch of the next generation Jaguar XJ will also mark the 50th anniversary of the first XJ. Once the Jaguar XJ is tuned with an electric motor, the company will look to take on Tesla's Model S.
Also Read: 2016 Jaguar XJ Launched in India Priced at Rs. 98.03 Lakh
With stiff competition in the luxury sedan segment, the British car-makers, whom were till now reluctant to update the XJ, decided to take the very concept of luxury to the next level. Jaguar, instead of giving a normal facelift, decided to electrify the next generation XJ and can also act as a flagship product for future electric models. With the new generation Jaguar XJ, the company hopes to topple Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS, and Audi A8. While Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus also offer hybrid versions of the above mentioned models, Audi will soon launch the A8 E-Tron.
Also Read: Jaguar I-Pace Spotted Testing, To Be Unveiled At Geneva Motor Show
Codenamed Road Rover, the new generation Jaguar XJ will also get cosmetic changes along with the electric motor. Reports suggest that the XJ will be turned in to a five-door sedan instead of the current 4-door body. It is understood that the design layout for the new XJ is ready and the company will soon start working on it. This new design language will also be seen in the future Jaguar models.
Also Read: Jaguar E-Pace Scores 5-Star Safety Rating In Euro NCAP Crash Tests
The new generation XJ won't be the first electric car from the brand, as the company expects to start sales of the Jaguar I-Pace by this year. If all goes according to plan, the new generation Jaguar XJ will be the second product from a company without a Tesla badge on it.
