Jaguar shows off at traveling Alive Driving Experience

the flagship XJL to the red hot XFR-S, Jaguar invites the public test its cars during one of its 18 driving experience events.

When many people think Jaguar, they think slippery British sports cars lead by long, flowing hoods. They think of the E-Type: one of the most beautiful cars built. However, maybe more people probably think of the awkward S-Type and the questionable reliability of just every Jaguar model built before the of the century. Clearly, Jaguar has some work to to improve its reputation.

Recently, I was an opportunity to experience the automaker's latest reputation repair tool: an 18 city Jaguar Alive Driving Experience program allows the public to try the automaker's entire line up of vehicles a variety of real world and simulated conditions from public roads to a small autocross course.

Now, we've tested about every model in Jaguar's three chassis lineup that consists of the -point XF and its variant, the XK coupe and convertible, and the XJ large sedan. However, I hadn't had an opportunity to drive the long wheelbase XJL. After signing a few waivers, I settled the 20-way power-adjustable leather bucket seat of the big sedan.

The 2012 XJL

The XJL has been stretched about five-inches the standard model. This increase is reflected directly in the sedan's additional five-inches of rear legroom. Nice touches small foot rests tucked beneath the front seats, wooden trays that fold from the front seatbacks, a massive panoramic moonroof, and available rear entertainment had me convinced that the rear bench was the best seat in house. The XJL's back seat is very tall passenger friendly and, my average-sized 5'9" frame, there was plenty of room to really stretch .

The first of the event took place on public roads the XJL's cabin technology package could be tested in real conditions. I absolutely fell in with the available 20-speaker, 1,200 watt Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system--it is one of the best in the business. However, my longtime disdain Jaguar's touchscreen infotainment system once again reared its ugly . My issues with the system mostly stem from my belief that Jaguar relies too much the touchscreen for functions that should have physical buttons. I don't want to have to to the climate control screen to adjust the heated seats most other cars will me tap a button. I also don't like the odd Jaguar menu system organization which makes it difficult to find the options need. For example, it took me almost two minutes to find the audio tone controls to adjust the bass. (Hint: they're not under the audio .)

Next, we taken to a handling course where the sedans' various drive modes and traction systems affect the vehicle's performance. Starting in Winter mode, I noticed that the vehicle was a relaxed in responding to my throttle and steering inputs, presumably that the vehicle wouldn't be jerking about potentially slick conditions. As I driving, the course instructor switched the vehicle to its standard and I immediately noticed a boost in responsiveness as the sedan alive. On the final lap, the Competition mode was activated, which allowed a bit rotation in the turns from the rear wheel drive sedan before the traction control stepped .

The 2012 Jaguar XJL starts $80,700. That's $7,000 more than the standard XJ for five extra inches automotive ego. Step up to the XJL Supersport with its 510-horsepower supercharged V-8 and price balloons to $117,700 before options. There's even an insaneJaguar XJL Ultimate hitting the market in Winter 2012 that rolls every optional feature available and then adds a pair of docked iPads to the rear entertainment system, coats the car in unique Black Amethyst Metallic paint, and swathes the interior unique ivory semi-Aniline leather. Jaguar's flagship of flagships will you an even $155,000.


Adapted and abridged from: CNET, July 20, 2012.