TIME TO GET YOUR X351

We are often asked for advice on the best value modern used Jaguar, and also what is a future classic. There is one answer to both - the last XJ.

- LES. HUGHES

WHEN SIR WILLIAM LYONS RETIRED FROM HIS Company in 1972 he declared the Jaguar he was most proud of was the XJ saloon introduced four years earlier. What had not happened yet was that the XJ of all variations was to remain the epitome of what a Jaguar represents - and that is still the case.

Luxurious, stylish, comfortable, quick, with an exceptionally comfortable ride, its loss from the range is mourned. The good news is that if you are on the lookout for a classic of the future, one with astonishing value for money and ownership satisfaction - keep reading.

We have had experience with all XJs - Series 1, Series 2, Series 3, XJ6, XJ12, XJ-C, XJ40, X300, X308, X350 - the latter is the world's first all-aluminum monocoque bodied car. Then there is the X351.

It's true we particularly love the rare supercharged XJR6 X300 (really code-named the X306 and with just over 5000 created). But what would we be looking for though if we were contemplating the purchase of the best value Jaguar now? Simple, the X351 - the final model XJ - was discontinued in 2019 having been revealed in 2009 and in showrooms from 2010.

The used car buying price can be astonishingly good. Build quality is exceptional, and you can choose from the short or long wheelbase, three-litre diesel, three-liter six-cylinder, V8 and supercharged V8 engines. Then of course, there are the limited edition variations.

Celebrities chosen by Jaguar to launch the car in the UK in 2009 were the beautiful Aussie supermodel Elle McPherson and the almost as beautiful US television host and car nut Jay Leno, such was its importance to Jaguar.