1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Review
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Review
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Used XJ-Series for sale
Appraise This CarJaguar XJ-Series model years
Jaguar XJ-Series types
- Sedan
- Convertible
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
What’s new
On the XJ6, thicker side window glass insulates passengers from annoying wind noise and outside distractions. After a 20-year reign, the XJS coupe is put out to pasture. The only model offered for 1996 is the six-cylinder convertible; the most popular XJS in its unremarkable history. The changes for 1996 include new wheels, new bucket seats, additional chrome exterior trim and an adjustable wood-trimmed steering wheel.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$241/mo for XJ-Series Vanden Plas
XJ-Series Vanden Plas
vs
$219/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
After 1995's last minute resucitation of Britain's favorite touring sedan, we didn't expect to see many changes for the 1996 XJ-Series. To our satisfaction, however, Jaguar is plowing ahead, making this outstanding vehicle even better. XJ12 and Vanden Plas sedans have had their wheelbases extended to enhance the comfort of already pampered rear seat passengers. The sporty XJR with its 322 horsepower 4-liter turbo engine remains virtually unchanged, but does now include a leaping Jaguar hood ornament, an all-time favorite of many of our staff members. XJ6 sedans receive their fair share of attention as well, getting a multitude of standard equipment that was formerly part of the Luxury Package.
In our opinion the XJs are some of the finest looking cars on the road today, expressing individuality without dripping excess. Thanks to Ford, improved quality and reliability insures that these beautiful cars will spend more time on the road than they will in the shop. The XJs are still priced a bit above competitors from Germany, Japan and the United States, but how often do you lay your eyes on a car and find that no matter how hard you try not to, you keep looking?
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1996 Jaguar XJ-Series.
5 star(91%)
4 star(6%)
3 star(3%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
34 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
Gorgeous big cat
DIC_CAMARILLO, 01/21/2010
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
I'm very pleased to say that my gorgeous big cat is still running well. In fact, the only thing I've done is a few oil changes. I've put nearly 40,000 miles on her and she's been great. She came with Toyo tires that still have 40% left on them. Still on the same brakes as well. Rear axle has been leaking since I got her (can smell the diff oil), but no problems. Front left wheel … bearing still makes the same noise. Gas mileage is pretty good on the freeway 24 mpg at 80 mph. City mpg isn't so good. I've received as many compliments on her as my Porsche Boxster and 911. When I drive people they comment on how nice a ride she has. I didn't think I would say it, but I love this car. An absolutely beautiful luxury car that makes me proud to own her.
5 out of 5 stars
Can't believe it's a Jag!!
hackman, 04/23/2007
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
My title tells all. Having been in the used car biz since '76, I have found this car to be quite the auto. It now has 141k on it with no major issues what so ever. Love it and don't be afraid of 95-97 models.
4.88 out of 5 stars
What a great car for the $$$
fritzthecat1, 12/15/2012
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
I have owned this car for 8 months. Purchased with 90K and currently has 101K on it. Immediate repairs when purchased were minor. Rear seal replaced, front shocks replaced and a new set of tires. It has burnt NO OIL between oil changes which I do every 8K due to type of oil used and filter used. After 8K the oil still looked clean. MPG for the area(hilly) is not bad. It gets compliments … everywhere I go. It is actually easier DIY repair that I ever thought and parts are cheap if you shop for them.
5 out of 5 stars
*CLASS & DASH*
mongoose4, 07/06/2013
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
Owned now for 4 years, found it on local Craigslist wanted 6K, got it 4.5K. Mint body (9+), Int 8, new tires, subwoofer. Engine compartment look new. Had a few issues mechanically-wheel bearings, frozen brake caliper. Put 2K into it, rebuilt throttle body + previous mentioned. Cant beat the looks, performance. Really where can you get this for <7K today & 3 years from collector plates ;)
1996 XJ-Series Highlights
Sedan
Vanden Plas
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $241/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 11.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original0
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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