Model tested: Jaguar XJ 3.0 Diesel Portfolio LWB, Jaguar XJ 5.0 Supersport V8 SWB
Price as tested: £67,185, £87,544
Date tested: March 2010
Road tester: Stuart Milne

"You don't need a Jaguar, but you must want one," says Jaguar's design head Ian Callum. Jaguar has always been an emotive brand, and its buyers are passionate about the Midlands-based car maker, which is why the new Jaguar XJ is the most striking looking car in its class. But is there depth beneath the sharp new styling?

The 2010 Jaguar XJ could be the most controversial car of the year. Its thoroughly modern lines are a world away from those of its more traditional predecessors. It will split opinion, but this is a car that looks much better in the metal.

The XJ is far sleeker than its traditional 'three-box' rivals, but 75 per cent of buyers Jaguar surveyed said this was the right thing to do. But these cars aren't bought solely for their looks; drivers and passengers demand a cosseting ride, plenty of space and an attractive cabin.

The latter gets a big tick. Jaguar's interiors have always had a sense of occasion, and the new XJ is no different. Press the start button and the gear selection dial rises from the centre console and the primary instrumentation appears out of the darkness - the Jaguar XJ is the first car to have entirely digital instrumentation.

The seats are supportive and comfortable - although some may find them a little hard - and the interior space is first rate. Up front the car cocoons the occupants, but never feels cramped. Rear legroom in the long-wheelbase model is superb, while the short-wheelbase version is more than adequate.

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Behind the wheel, the new Jaguar XJ is excellent. There's a lightness to the steering, but it's responsive, and the car is well balanced. All models have Jaguar Drive Control which sharpens the steering, throttle response and gearbox mapping, but the real grin factor comes from the dials turning red and the seatbelt pre-tensioners tugging tight, warning occupants things might get a little faster.

The 3-litre V6 diesel gives 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds and offers impressive mid-range grunt for effective overtaking. It's a little noisy when cold at tickover, but is hushed on the move. The low running costs - 184g/km and 40.1mpg - will seal the deal for many.

The range-topping XJ 5-litre Supersport is a rocket ship, offering a sub-five second 0-62mph time with a sporty supercharged V8 soundtrack under acceleration. Cruising is quiet, but there's always a sense that it's ready to beat the horizon into submission. A 5-litre without supercharger is also offered.

All models get xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights, power bootlid, a panoramic roof with electric blinds, touch-screen sat-nav, mood lighting and ESP.

Ride aside, the Jaguar XJ has set a new standard for the luxury car sector. It's radical looking inside and out and brings genuine driving dynamics not seen before in this class. It's the end of Jaguar's first step in rejuvenation and I can't wait for the next one