The Jaguar XJR is the brand’s flagship sedan.
Fast facts
* Model: Jaguar XJR * Exterior color: Glacier White * Interior color: Red Zone * Engine: 5.0-liter, V-8 (supercharged) * Horsepower: 550 * Transmission: Eight-speed automatic * Fuel economy: 23 mpg highway, 15 mpg city * Local Dealer: Jaguar Chattanooga * Price (as tested): $121,208 * Model: Infiniti Q70L * Exterior color: Hermosa Blue * Interior color: Java * Engine: 5.6-liter, V-8 * Horsepower: 416 * Transmission: Seven-speed automatic * Fuel economy: 24 mpg highway, 16 mpg city * Local Dealer: Infiniti Chattanooga * Price (as tested): $74,270
Flagship sedans are showpieces for their brands, embodying all the virtues their manufacturers hold dear. But what happens when a brand’s flagship has the handling and performance characteristics of a race car?
This week, Test Drive features a side-by-side comparison of two V-8 powered, rear-wheel drive luxury sedans, the Infiniti Q70L and the Jaguar XJR, which both offer Mercedes Benz S-Class-level luxury along with adrenalin inducing engines capable of pinning your back to your seat.
Beware: The price of admission to this echelon of automobiles is steep. Our Hermosa Blue Q70L tester has a sticker price of $74,270, while the spectacular Glacier White Jaguar XJR lists for $121,208. Both showcase technology and performance features that may one day trickle down to less expensive offerings from both car companies.
In truth, because of the wide price disparity, these two cars will rarely be cross-shopped. Still, their overall size and performance profiles are similar enough that they represent good examples of what you get for the money at two price points when it comes to V-8 muscle in a luxury wrapper.