Used 1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Consumer Reviews
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Gorgeous big cat
DIC_CAMARILLO, 01/21/2010
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
20 of 20 people found this review helpful
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.
Can't believe it's a Jag!!
hackman, 04/23/2007
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
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.
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series for sale near you
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- XJS ConvertibleMSRP: $20,988402 mi away
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What a great car for the $$$
fritzthecat1, 12/15/2012
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
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.
*CLASS & DASH*
mongoose4, 07/06/2013
updated 01/08/2021
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
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 ;)
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Our Wonderful Big Cat
Greg, 05/28/2008
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
This is our second Jaguar (first was a 1992 XJ std). Some nice improvement over the 1992. Ride quality is phenomenal. Acceleration is good. Gas mileage is so-so (our 540i does a little better). The quality of material is unheard of in this day and age. Our Big Cat is such a sexy machine. A lot of oohs and ahhs! Back seat is more comfortable than the front. Sport or Luxury shock setting = great idea! If you want an incredible luxury vehicle, get a Jaguar. No other car has this much personality!
Our VDP at 80K mi
DIC_CAMARILLO, 12/12/2009
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Our XJ6 Vanden Plas just broke 80K miles with very minimal problems. The seats are still in excellent condition - these are the best seats, especially the back seats! The ride comfort is amazing. Our VDP is a long car. I drove to work today in a good solid rainstorm. I was doing over 90 and I didn't even know. The car holds the ground so well - I'm amazed at how great the suspension is. At first I thought the suspension wasn't up to BMW standards, but I've changed my mind. Jaguar did a great job on this car. The 4.0 straight 6 sings! Smog check results look like a PZEV car! Timeless beauty. Solid, safe car. Very impressive stereo system. My VDP still puts a smile on my face!
jAGUAR Fun
David R. Snyder, 04/23/2016
updated 10/26/2016
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJS 2dr Convertible
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
FIND ONE THAT HAS BEEN LOVED AND TAKEN CARE OF OTHERWISE YOU WILL SUFFER TOO MUCH TIME AT THE SHOP AND I RECOMMEND 1993 OR NEWER. Wonderful dependable automobiles.
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Nice Car!
Mike, 06/22/2009
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have always thought about owning a Jaguar and I am glad that I made the choice on my 96 XJ6. Overall the car is great. Great ride, great looks and has been reliable. It gets looks and has a nice big car feel without feeling heavy. Extremely good gas mileage! My wife not being a "car" person loves it as well.
My dream came true
jeff pendman, 03/28/2010
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This Jaguar was the best car I have owned all the luxury but when it came to Jaguar it was the best and smoothest ride once in awhile a few minor problems occur like door locks but a easy fix and well worth for this xj6! All the bells and whistles
Another great cat!
oldirish, 11/20/2002
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I purchased my '96 to drive back and forth to work. This is the latest in a line of Jaguars I have owned, and to date, the best in terms of build quality (excluding my 60's sedans.) It is exceptional money for value. Ford's influence on quality and reliability can clearly be seen. While it doesn't feel quite as responsive as my '89 XJ6, it has it beat in terms of ride, comfort and controls. Look at a good used Jaguar before you buy a used luxury car from Germany or Japan. '95 onwards Jags are fantastic!
First XJ6 last car-- ever
Bruce Kuda, 10/07/2016
updated 04/07/2017
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
this is with out a doubt the finest car I have ever owned. Workmanship is as good as or better than my old S-1 Bentley. The car practically drives itself except when you want to drive it then it will do just about anything you want it to. It is Easy to work on- the mechanicals make sense- not like some of the new cars. I bought my 1996 Vanden Plas Jag used, it is a one owner and was well loved- the car was almost perfect. The mileage was 146,000 when I got it. Initially I had some trouble with vibrations and wheel wobble in the steering wheel. had tires balanced, put new front rotors and checked pads- replaced blown shock- checked wheel bearing, tie rod and ball joints all was fine but still had intermittent wobble. Checked tire pressure 36PSI all around. Finally I checked the owners book- it said tire pressure was supposed to be 36PSI~~~~~ unless you had unapproved tires- I checked mine were not approved it said unapproved tires should be 44PSI-- aired them up and trouble went away. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Best part is the car cost me 2995.00 off the dealers lot- wow what a bargain- Prices on these are so reasonable I may look for another one to keep under a tarp until this one is all used up in the next 200,000 miles or so ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ okay it is 6 months later- when this car is running it is still the best, BUT, many little issues , electrical ,heater ,brakes rust floor boards~~~ all cost money even for a DIY guy like me--- Had to buy a second cars ) not a Jag) so I could be sure to make it to work--- its a great hobby car- but mines not a reliable daily driver- it is 21 years old
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you deserve one
RGB, 09/04/2003
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJS 2dr Convertible
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
having driven foreign cars for 30 years, the last being a mercedes 380 sl, i find this sjx to be a real head turner. there are so few that they are noticed & appreciated by people with design tendences for luxury. a joy to have and drive. you deserve one!
If only they could fix the electrical pr
KW, 05/03/2002
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Fantanstic ride, drive, etc. One major problem is the constant minor electrical problems (i.e. not all doors locking, alerts (airbag, light out, driver memory, etc.) which aren't correct. Also, you can start and simply move a Jag just a few feet; always let it run a few minutes. But overall a fantastic car.
Dream to drive - collectors' item
Edward Andrews, 10/27/2005
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJS 2dr Convertible
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
Like all cars, if you find a trustworthy non-dealership mechanic, you'll save a lot. I spend about $1000 once or twice a year on preventive measures and repair; a lot less than a car note. Leave it to Ford to get it completely right (overheating, guzzling V12 replaced with V6, electrics from hell fixed)in '95-96 and then drop the design altogether for '97! Brilliant! But thanks, now it's a collecters' item - compare the interior with the '97 Aston Martin (virtually identical). It's rare to own a vehicle that goes up in value, both aesthetically and monetarily.
My Beatuiful Jag
Hook_20, 06/26/2008
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have owned Japanese cars for years and I have always sworn by them, However after I started test driving European cars I noticed a huge improvement in build quality and overall performance. I then happened upon this Jag and I can honestly say I will never go back. This is really comfortable it has awesome power for a 5000 LB car and good gas mileage for a heavy car. Plus I never hear the wind. Oh and I haven't spent anymore on this car then I have with any other Japanese car in repairs so in my opinion why buy anything else, not mention I picked this up for $7000 and it is just has good as a Mercedes of the same year.
Fast, Tight, Reliable
Collin, 09/17/2003
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I am continually amazed at what a good car this has been. My cat has been extremely reliable and still is with 113,000 miles on the odometer. I plan to put at least another 75k on it, and then maybe get a xk8. The suspension is stiff (the way I like it, in sport mode on the transmission the car gets up and goes, and it takes corners fairly well for a luxury sedan.
A Hidden Treasure
Andy, 01/18/2005
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have owned Volvos, Buicks, and three BMW 5ers. Now, an XJ6. These cars are generally exceptional on reliability and, treated properly, will give you 200k miles on the original short block & transmission. They cars truly define aesthetic elegance; they are unique head-turners anywhere you go. Our XJ6 is very quick and light-feeling; it corners well with very little body lean and the steering, while not as stiff as a BMW, is precise and gives just enough feedback from the road. Because of my positive experience with our XJ6, I am endeavouring to buy another '96-'97 XJ, a Vanden Plas. Take advantage of the fantastic reliability & durability inthe '96-'97s!
Great Car - AC has been only problem
BS, 05/03/2007
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJS 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love this car from the first time I saw it. I was going to buy a new XK, but a retired man was selling this with 22k miles and it was garaged like new so I bought it. Even today in 2007 it is a head turner. People continue to walk up and say it is a great car. My wife is lobbying for a new one but I love the style on the '96. No confusing this with another brand. Maintenance, like any luxury car, is expensive when it is needed. Repairs have been as expected except for the AC system. Every year it has needed something. The only issue I have is with the AC. Two compressors and evaporators in only 7 years time at over $3.5K a pop to repair. I may have to finally sell it.
What A Mistake
TJP720, 07/09/2003
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJS 2dr Convertible
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I've owned six jags and enjoyed everyone until now. I fell in love and purchsed this 96 when almost near new and it's been nothing but nickle and dime ever since. The warranty just ran out and I had to replace both window switches. The center console bracket will not stay in place, the auto antenna cable just broke, I can see hundreds and even thousands of dollars in repairs from here on out. This jag has always been dealer maintained and just driven around town. I can hardly wait to trade it off but never another jaguar again
It's great!
R. G. Barrock, 10/08/2004
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJS 2dr Convertible
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Going from a MB 380SL to this car was rewarding because it had 12057 miles & was6years old while the MB had 169000 miles. Comfort is superb and it is very stylish. If I was 50 years younger? Wow! Well made and a winner.
This is Luxury
The Big Cat, 06/21/2008
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is our second Jaguar - the first was a 1992 Sovereign, which was a very nice car. Our 1996 VDP is a world above the old Sovereign. Our VDP is the most luxurious car, has the nicest materials and has the best looks. This car makes me smile, everytime I drive it. We've owned Mercedes, BMW, Lexus and Infiniti and we've enjoyed those cars (and still enjoy our 540i), but there is something very special about the big cat! Add to this the improved reliability, you have a car that is hard to beat.
Gorgeous Luxury Car
DIC_CAMARILLO, 12/27/2007
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is so beautiful. She's great to look at. Interior is so comfortable. Rear seat is the most comfortable I've ever been in. Lots of nice improvements over our 1992 Sovereign. Long wheelbase is a bit of a hassle to park or u-turn. This car feels long - it feels like you're hauling a small trailer behind it. Body lines are beautiful. You feel like a million bucks in the car. Power is good. Handling is good for such a big, heavy car. Front suspension feels outdated - slow on speed bumps and doesn't feel refined like BMW or Mercedes. We've had good luck with Jaguar, even though people tell us they're nightmares - mechanically. Only time will tell.
Best vehicle ,dollar for dollar
Joseph Nicholas, 07/11/2003
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the 5th Jaguar I have had. They get better all the time. Ford seems to have not screwed this car up :yet.
XJ6 Is a Superb Automobile
Dog Doc, 07/22/2003
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Never in my wildest dreams did I believe I would ever say this Jaguar, bought as my 2nd car, would be perhaps the best car I have ever owned. I have owned MB (500 series), BMW (740iL), and Lexus (400). This Jag has become my favorite of all, hands down. The quality of the car is much better than I ever imagined. The comfort and ride are without peer.
Lady DOESN'T Sing the Blues
Lady Butterfly, 05/18/2005
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Lady Blue (name of my car) is one heck of a car! I love this girl and she treats me well. She's a smooth ride that loves to show off her sleek design and comfortable ride. Everywhere I go, people stop to look at her and compliment her beautiful and luxurious styling. Other than routine maintenance, my Jaguar hasn't been in the shop for anything since I got her. If you're THINKING about getting one -- do. It will be one of the best decisions you've ever made.
Big Bucks To Maintain This Car
Don Taylor, 04/01/2004
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My Mechanic said, "Youve Got A Super Nice Car BUT If You Keep That Car For Any Length Of Time You And I Are Going To Be Best Friends"! Trans has problems electronically shifts hard. Door locks will not lock, Check engine always on from some problem or another. Front breaks lock up defect in design after usage for a while. To many other very expensive problems to list. THINK HARD BEFORE BUYING!!!!!!!
Pleasure To Behold
R. Trettin, 07/11/2006
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car is a classic beauty. Ride, style and comfort in transit. This is however a ladies' car. It is a little cramped for a 6 footer with a few extra pounds. My wife loves her jag and wont part with it... til I can get her a newer one. It is parked next to my Cad DTS and never takes a back seat. Thanks Jag!
Best Luxury Car I Have Owned
Kraig, 04/08/2004
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Other than normal maintenance, this Jaguar has been a joy to own, fun to drive and the best luxury automobile I have yet to enjoy. You will too.
One Very Fine Car
Dr. Ed, 06/22/2005
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Between the ride and style it's a hard choice. Performance also enters in to that same equation. All 100%.
XJ12 is Super
abrinkman, 06/30/2003
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ12 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned an XJ12 for several years now and am in love with the car, from the external styling (which is magnificent) to the comfortable interior.
A Great Luxury Highway Car 5 star
Richard, 05/20/2018
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my 1996 Jaguar XJ 6 Vanden Plas. Karden Premium sound system - Long wheelbase -118k miles. This car is loaded. New $70 grand ! Sapphire Blue, cream interior. A real head turner. Immaculate condition like new. Garage kept. I drive only in the summer. Irreplaceable ! Service twice a year. a 5 star mechanic - like my Jag. A great Highway Car. Now a collectors car. JR
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Best and last of the true Brits
Eric Vifian, 04/28/2021
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
1996 and 1997 are the two last years of the fully British Jaguar XJ6 and XJ12 sedan, before they redesigned the bumpers, interior and engine for the new XJ8 in 1998... These are arguably two of the best model years Jaguar ever had. The 6-cylinder is not the fastest or most refined, but it is very reliable... the V12 is 6 liters of beautiful and silky power - with modern performance but thirsty gas mileage... both are the refined X300 platform with better transmissions and interior components, retaining the traditional and charming Jaguar interior... one of the nicest ever. They both drive beautifully, quiet even by today's standards, great AC and stereo... and easy to maintain. The cars are not flagsgip-big - their only drawback is that they are a little snug... the size of a 5-Series or E-Class, but a lower roofline, so not much headroom... Great cars - especially the long-wheelbase models.
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Ice ice blue baby
Talimodude , 01/15/2023
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought my xj6 3 years ago with 29,000 miles on her now has 36,500 paid 6,000 put another 3,000 in her and she is my daily driver. Love this ride quite and fast couch handles almost as my 94 xjs convertible did. Won't ever get rid of this ice blue baby!!!!!
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Back on the road after a long rest
PDXBrit, 04/07/2024
updated 04/14/2025
1996 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car belonged to a friend, and had been off the road for over a year. Odometer shows about 120K miles, and after taking care of a few issues (alternator belt and a brake light / cruise control disconnect switch, for example) mainly caused, I would guess, by lack of use, it is proving to be a fantastic, relaxing road car, effortlessly covering long distances on both freeways and twisty roads and returning 20+mpg - not bad for quite a heavy car. Handling is a delight and performance, while not delivering the speed and acceleration I experienced in a borrowed (supercharged) XJR, can still satisfy, especially with the transmission in "Sport" mode! That twin-cam, four-valve straight-six engine is very smooth - a good successor to the previous generation XK. As with the majority of Jaguars, the exceptional ride comfort is combined with very decent cornering, predictable near the limit. I have driven a 1979 Series 3 XJ6 and this will, I believe, be a worthy successor. The '79 has provided many years and miles of reliable motoring - the result, I believe, of simply following the recommended service routine - something I have seen neglected far too often. I get many positive comments on the '96, including a recent visit to a car wash where the attendant stopped me on the way in to say he was sorry, but they weren't accepting any more super-cool cars through the wash that day. Very happy to be driving something which, these days, is a bit "different". I have to say I consider this one of the last "true" Jaguars - both in styling and the use of a straight-six engine.
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