Key facts:
Model tested: Jaguar XJ 3.0D Portfolio
Price: £64,400
Date tested: August 2010
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Ten Point Test rating: 87%
The Jaguar XJ is the star of the luxury saloon class with its combination of an exhilarating driving experience, film star looks and the promise of a very comfortable journey for rear seat passengers.

1. Looks 10/10
Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, the new XJ represents a huge leap forward in looks compared with its conservative predecessor. Our week-long test drive confirmed this is a car which turns heads for all the right reasons.

2. Looks inside 10/10
The XJ is no less impressive once you step into the car. The first thing to catch the eye is likely to be the "virtual" information display; a high-definition screen that looks space-age and exclusive. Elsewhere the cabin is punctuated with quality touches.

3. Practicality 9/10
The 520-litre boot has a broad entrance so you can stow reasonably bulky objects. The boot lid can be operated electronically and the cabin is roomy with generous storage solutions. Models are available in standard or long wheelbase forms.

4. Ride and Handling 9/10
The XJ offers an engaging driving experience but can deliver driver and passengers in comfort. The steering is sharp and body roll through corners is minimal.

5. Performance 9/10
The XJ's light aluminium shell is combined with the most advanced, powerful and efficient engines Jaguar has ever produced. The 5-litre petrol engine is available in naturally aspirated and supercharged form, delivering 0-62mph acceleration in 5.7 and 4.9 seconds respectively.

We drove the 275hp 3-litre diesel which manages 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds while boasting effortless overtaking power. The diesel is also very quiet; it's mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

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6. Running Costs 6/10
The V6 3.0-litre diesel offers the most frugal motoring. We were only a little short of the claimed 40.1mpg during our week-long test drive. Pick petrol and you'll be averaging 23.4mpg to 24.9mpg. The diesel emits just 184g/km CO2.

7. Reliability 7/10
Jaguar finds itself at the wrong end of the Reliability Index, but the 3-litre diesel engine is in Jaguar sister company Land Rover's cars where it has so far proved reliable.

8. Safety 8/10
The XJ has not undergone EuroNCAP testing but comes with an impressive amount of kit to keep you out of trouble including ESP, twin front, side and curtain airbags plus a useful blind spot warning system built into the door mirrors.

9. Equipment 9/10
It says something about a car when the entry-level trim level is called Luxury. This brings standard 19-inch alloy wheels, Xenon headlights, panoramic roof with electrically-operated blinds, leather heated memory seats and satnav.

10. X-Factor 10/10
Choose the XJ over its rivals and you will scoop more admiring looks than all its rivals put together.