I have a 1998 XJ8L British racing green. Absolutely love it. One of the best designs of the XJ.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in to the video and for sharing your thoughts. Great to hear you have an XJ. More on the XJ in other videos on the channel!

I had an XF but now have the SWB XJ 3.0ltr supercharged portfolio in indigo blue with cream 2 tone interior and it is such a beautiful car. It's low, wide, long, it's aggressive and imposing. Every time I see it I fall in love again.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and for sharing your thoughts. Glad you enjoy your XJ! Many more videos, also on the Jaguar mark, on this channel to enjoy!

This is one of the most informative, well researched, masterfully narrated and visually stunning car videos I have seen on KZread. A real tour de force. Thank you to all the team for making and uploading this veritable automotive feast!! The narrator has impeccable English (with better enunciation than most native speakers in the UK) which made watching the video an even greater delight. I own the X351 final edition and each and every day I thank Jaguar designers for making such a bold, unique yet timeless design. Furthermore, it is an absolute joy and pleasure to drive both in town and open highways. My short-term goal is to own a Jaguar V8 before they breathe their last breath as the shadow of electrification looms over us.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for getting in touch and sharing your thoughts! Very kind indeed. Glad you like the videos. Great to hear you own a X351 final edition and are enjoying the bold design. Which Jaguar V8 do you have in mind? It will not be long indeed before the petrol (and diesel) cars will breathe their last breath. Although the new all electric XJ was recently cancelled, as you surely are aware of. Regardless, electrification is coming!

That was a great presentation. I enjoyed watching the XJ morph from generation to generation. From what I hear, Ian Callum didn't take too well to having the XJ discontinued. It's not hard to see why. This is such an elegant, stately car, a fine culmination of the British aesthetic. And it can be quick and nimble when it needs to be. Ian left right around the time the XJ was discontinued. I can only imagine his thoughts on that situation. This was good. Let's see something on the XK. That was another classic.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for tuning in to the video. There was a new XJ, actually a full electric car, waiting. Entirely designed and developed. Ready for production… this was canceled as you might know. Callum left around that time indeed although it is not clear if it had anything to do with the situation.

Your chanel deserves so much more views and attention

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Many thanks. Very kind. Hope we’ll grow this year indeed!

I have the 2012 XJ diesel 3.0 portfoilio. With massage seats. Every year passes mot. No warning lights. Nothing. Ignore the haters. My car is perfect. 😊

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in! No haters on our side, as per the video. Enjoy your XJ!

@Gooseman2k2

3 жыл бұрын

I have a 2011 XJ 5.0... it started having serious problems around 2017... Engine rebuild... Trans rebuild... strange electrical glitches... suspension faults... I still love it... but I understand the reason for the large depreciation... I have spent more in the last 3 years fixing the car... than what the car is worth!

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

@@Gooseman2k2 No car is perfect, definately not the highly complex modern ones... However, picking up the bill for that is never pleasant. Enjoy your XJ, despite these bills!

Great video, Niels. Personally, I love the current XJ and also the old XJ40. My two favourite XJ's.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you like the videos! The XJ40 is much hated, but it does have quite a bit of original character of its own. Not a bad iteration at all!

The old design was good. The new design is good too. Rare case when complete change of direction have lost nothing.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

The change is harder to make, design and execute than many imagine. Although the outgoing model is not perfect, in essence they definately captured the elegant XJ shape, without making a caricature of the classical one - as per some of the older XJs. Not an easy feat!

Thanks for watching! What do you think? Please like if you enjoyed the video and don't forget to subscribe!

I always found the last XJ so much more elegant and interesting than the three German rivals. So I was sad to hear there will not be a new XJ.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

A very interesting car indeed. A different take on the luxury sedan. I’d have to say the Bangle 7 was also a very interesting car. Not elegant like the XJ but that’s great as it was a true character of its own. More on that here: kzread.info/dash/bejne/nWiApJmtmLu3YMo.html

@jaffaorange3809

3 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign Interesting video as well. I remember that one, a bold design. But I've got two questions for you. First, if you're in the market for an elegant, full size luxury sedan, where should you go? Imagine trying to avoid the big three from Germany. And my second question: what's next for this segment for Jaguar? Should they try to design a new XJ after all? What should they take into account? Maybe worth another video!

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

@@jaffaorange3809 Glad you liked this video as well. A bold design indeed. When it comes to the two questions: -when in the market for an elegant, full size luxury sedan, where to go avoiding the big three from Germany: that will get harder and harder as we're moving to more and more SUVs these days. The Quattroporte is way too bloated and stretched, the LS400 (video here kzread.info/dash/bejne/qoeh1tCncqu3Xc4.html) is interesting but not could be better executed from the side - great interior though. If Bentley would be in the line-up the Flying Spur would be on the list. Lucid's Air is truly great but not for sale yet... -And what's next for this segment for Jaguar? They will have this question hanging above their heads... A new XJ is likely off the table, they killed it for a reason. This business - automotive - is extremely complex and hard. Many tried and failed, as so much can go wrong...

Nice commentary on the XJ series sedans. Regardless of the design, buyers wanted something more from a luxury car. I think the closest thing to explain the demise of the Jag sedan is that the market has shrunken, so Jag had become the British Cadillac.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for tuning in to the video. Sadly indeed the market declined. Yet a host of companies still sell large sedans. They did much better strategic work, as is referred to in the video. More videos can be seen on the channel on Jags as well as sedans and car design!

Great video. I had a Series III in the 1980s and an X300 in the 1990s and have just picked up a 2008 X358 3.0 V6 because I never felt the same attraction to the new shape. The X358 is terrific. I'm sorry when I get to where I'm going. Feels so much more nimble than the previous ones I had thanks to the aluminium body and air suspension. Bargain basement buys at the moment but that may change - but I don't mind if it doesn't.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in to the video and for sharing your thoughts! Much appreciated. A personal story always is great to hear.

I'm a bit late to this video but I have just found your channel and I have to say that I really like not only your content per se but also the coachbuilt art pieces you make, very very impressive! Regarding Jaguar and the XJ and the hate around the combination of these two, I feel like Jaguar has kind of been in its own world in which they felt like the XJ could eventually become a proper selling luxury sedan. The XJ is indeed very characteristic and unique, but I feel like its 'Britishness' has been both a blessing and a curse, and consumers in mainland Europe have often leant towards German sedans. Then, outside of Europe, there is the 'stereotype' of British reliability and German reliability, and when choosing, people logically prefer the latter. I feel like the X350 could really benefit from a redesign. For example, while I think the F-Type is a brilliant car, I can't help but see the pre-facelift models as sort of an outdated design today, while the facelift (2019) F-Type looks fantastic and definitely future-proof. I think this is the same case of the XJ: today, it looks sort of outdated (2010 design!), and a proper facelift could potentially boost its confidence among competitors. (There are other issues regarding its character, marketing, pricing, etc. but I guess design could be the first step!)

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in. And for sharing your thoughts too, much appreciated. Glad you like our channel! Regarding Jaguar XJ, you make very valid points indeed: the old XJ shape is indeed very characteristic and unique, but with that a curse. The mainland Europe clients indeed quickly started leaning towards (modern!) German sedans. And, indeed, outside of Europe, there is the 'stereotype' of British reliability issues. The breaking with the old XJ was a break on many different levels. Even though the cars under the Ford area weren't bad cars, the styling was still very retrospective, hinting a t the old days. Some might have liked that, but an increasingly large group did not... We're looking forward to the new - all electic - XJ coming out soon, it better be good!

I really enjoyed the video Niels. Great presentation. I loved the previous XJ and many people who had it had a problem when this last one came out in 2009. I understood the vision of Ian Mc'Cullin, bringing Jaguar back to sport car company as he explained during the introduction of the Jaguar XJ. This brand has always be one of my favourite. I own a 2012 Jaguar XJ L Supersport in Caviar color. I still love it and enjoy it and look forward to see the new all electric XJ. Thanks a lot. Nogmaals hartelijk dank.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for getting in touch and great to hear you enjoyed the video! The vision of Ian Callum, indeed bringing Jaguar back to sport car company, has proven key to bring the brand back from the (near) death. Enjoy your 2012 Jaguar XJ L Supersport, it must look fantastic in Caviar colour! The new all electric XJ will be a key car for the brand yet again. Very curious indeed, likely one of the last cars Ian did before he left the brand.

I've had multiple Series IIIs, an XJ40, and two X350s. I absolutely hated the X351 for years. Now I own one and love it. Go figure.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in to the XJ vid and for sharing your thoughts. Gret to hear you speak from experience and you've had multiple Series IIIs, an XJ40, and two X350s. Somewhere you hate for the X351 turned into love (or at least enough liking) for buying it. Why was that?

@jonrobinson6851

3 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign I don't know what changed. I decided to finally test drive one, I guess.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

@@jonrobinson6851 Ha, excellent! Well enjoy it!

That was an awesome take and video and history wow

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for tuning in, much appreciated and for sharing your views. Glad you enjoyed the video! More XJ videos on this channel!

i checked out your website, what a surprise to find out you were the guys who made the Tesla shooting brake conversion 😲👍💯

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! Yes that’s us. And a few other cars after that. 😁👍

I am still polarized by the X351 XJ. I absolutely love the rear end, it's very unique and beautiful. The general silhouette/side profile is as good as the crash regulations allow it to be. The grill is very much at home and one of it's greatest features but the headlights still don't warm my heart and look and feel kind of out of place. In short I really tried to love this design and honestly Ian Callum's team have done a great job in many places but still I wish they'd made a different choice for the head lights. Anyways great video, I loved it.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you like the video, thanks for tuning in. It is a difficult car, this first XJ. It is clear this was a difficult task for the design team and for Mr Callum. One can read it in the design, the search for shape and form, so to speak. Neverteless, it has done its job, it put Jag back where it needed to be. More videos like this on the channel, if you're enjoying this one!

@abovenbeyondlimits81

2 жыл бұрын

Well said but the headlights of old that are round before Leds are actually smoother and very jag . The 10 -14 yrs I think is smoother front for combining the heritage in a new school way !

Very interesting review Niels. Although certain models have attracted me over the years I was never a diehard Jaguar fanboy, but I do currently own an X350 XJR as I felt that to be my perfect car. When the X350 came out it was controversial because of its bulk, and it took a good 10 years for people to appreciate it. I have a feeling the same may be true of the current shape, however none of this helps new car sales if it takes years to gain acceptance! I was one of the peoplel horrified by the 2009 XJ. I could not, and still cannot, understand why every element of the old XJs, good and bad had, to be thrown out of the window. As another viewer below here said it looks like a 1985 Ford Scorpio, and its true. I recall back in 1985 the same sense of loss of the previous brutishly handsome upright 1970s Granada and the shock of the new that never ever quite disappeared. At least the Scorpio offered a hatchback, the 2009 XJ only looks like it should have one but doesn't even offer that practical advantage. Although Jaguar are to be applauded for not going to far down the road of visual aggression, I think again you are being quite kind to this edition, the front light shapes do not work at all, the way the front wings blend into the bonnet attracts the eye across and over the car instead of down the side, and the rear end and lights look like they belong on a 1970s Lincoln. Outside its a mess, which is tragic as I know from my own X350 XJR it will be simply beautiful to drive, and the new interior is the nicest I have seen in any modern car bar none. I might even own one one day, but simply as a cheaply depreciated and comfortable tool to get to work, I will never look over my shoulder in the office car park.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for getting in touch again. The X350 XJR surely is lovely, bar its main issue, as per your remark: its visual bulk. Proportionally the outgoing/last XJ did solve that issue. The last gen did also boost sales compared to the X350, so in that sense it did do its job... Although many XJs have been lovely cars, they had quite some flaws, which turned people to the German brands mainly. The lack of interior space, boot space and a way too retrospective design being a few major points. (Bar quality issues.) I'd argue quite a few good element of the old XJs were carried over. The lovely atlethic proportions, the sympathic non agressive look, soft surfacing and frameless grille, but to name a few. One has to imagine how an S-class or 7-series would have looked like in 2009 if these brands had only done retrospective iterations up until that day... Their modern cars would have likely looked equally out of place for you. The design brief, to push the Jaguar brand into the future, was an incredibly difficult one to execute correctly. The lack of visual aggression is indeed to be applauded, just like the fact they ditched retro design. It just does not sell well enough, it is as simple as that. Although the exterior could be better on many points, I would not go as far as calling it a mess. It was the first time the team boldly pushed boundries. In the end it likely saved the Jaguar brand. Making it interesting enough to be purchased by Tata and able to develop the modern line-up the brand has today.

I've owned 3 351's since 2014 (1 was lost in a bad wreck). Loved every one to the core. I was incredibly disappointed when the electric XJ was delayed, then shelved. Now I own an i-Pace, it is outrageously fun to drive, the EV drivetrain is so buttery, I'll never go back to ICE. But most days I miss the ride quality of the "executive saloon floating on a cloud," and the interior of the i-Pace says many things, but 'luxury" isn't one of them. In truth, it's a sports car disguised as a CUV, with head turning looks. Now, waiting for the electric XJ, I'm eyeing up BMW's iX. I groove with its design, which surprises me but there you have it. At the end of the day, no matter how informed or educated or refined one's judgment, all we have is personal taste, we can't control chemistry, and variety truly is the spice of life.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your story on the XJ, and i-Pace. Lovely cars indeed. Enjoy your electric Jag, indeed a shame the electric XJ was canned...

For someone who grew up with round headlamps on every car, the modern lights look alien and every modern car looks as if it is squinting. I just wish that Jaguar had kept 4 large round lights at the front!

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and for sharing your thoughs! Although the round headlamps on the XJ were lovely, they also featured, as per your message, on every car. The only reason was at the time there was no possibility to do anything else. Production possibilities limited the options to only round headlights. The modern lights give cars a more distinctive so called down the road graphic. In the video the headlights on the XJ are discussed too - and how they were taken into the future.

Compare the last XJ to the final design of the “Old Jag” look, which was the Mondeo-based X-Type, and you see what a radical shift this was. I agree with the implication of the end of your review: the I-Pace shows how much life there still is in the new direction chosen by Ian Callum for the XJ.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Indeed, the I-Pace shows how much life there still is in the new direction chosen by Ian Callum for the XJ. The old XJ's were beautiful cars, very well executed pieces of design, execution and design-technically speaking. Just "nobody" bought them... So the changes was needed!

Being a Series III fan, I disagree that Jaguar needed to dramatically re-envision the XJ--you mentioned the 911, but that's precisely an example of a car always looks backwards. The issue of the X350 wasn't that it was haunted by the past (though undoubtedly it was), but even the re-imagining of the Series III felt stodgy, pudgy and aloof right out the gate. The pre-facelift had these bubbly, edgeless contours that stripped it of any excitement. People forget, but even the Series III at the time was a very evocative, modern design, thanks to the help of Pininfarina. I don't mind Ian Callum's new direction, but a lot about it detracted from what made the original XJ great. The thing just looks big and chunky, especially the rear. The cat-like svelteness was gone.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

A big Series III fan here too. We might both like that, but that doesn't mean the point about the need for a dramatical re-envision of the XJ wasn't correct. The 911 is actually the case in point. In no way is that a retrospective car, as the X300 and X350 were, overloaded with chrome and soft shapes. Each new 911 takes the essence of the 60s 911 and pushes it into the future - hard. Porsche did this with every single iteration. Once the XJ started looking back, the model was doomed. Sales figures show that, sadly.

If I had the opportunity and time I would to have you redesign my 1977 long wheel base Jaguar XJ12 5.3 into a total EV Restomod. The engine / electric motors to resemble an actual V12 under the hood and all. Love your design work and explanations as you go along. Only just found your channel and currently working through all your design elements. Thanks

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for getting in touch and glad to have you on board! Working on your a redesign of your 1977 long wheel base Jaguar XJ12 5.3 would be very interesting indeed! The EV drive train would indeed resemble an actual V12, as per its silent setup and torque. Glad to hear you like our design work and videos. Enjoy working through all our design related videos, we post a new videos each week! Thanks

Great informative video. I drive a 1969 XJ6... Series 1 above all

@NielsvanRoijDesign

14 күн бұрын

Thank you for tuning in! Glad you like the video and the XJ - so do we! It is indeed a very special piece of car design from S1 to the last one. More similar videos on the channel you might like too, also on Jaguar - and even the XJ - enjoy your Series 1!

Great video!

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in! We have many videos on many interesting cars on this channel, and even one on the (classic) XJ. Enjoy!

Love my xj 2013

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you do, it was a true changing point in the Jaguar brand history! Hopefully you enjoyed the video too.

My favorite XJ was the Series 2 XJC.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

That is gorgeous indeed! Pillarless windows and all!

Great video 👌🏼

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Many thanks for your kind words, much appreciated. Thank you for tuning in to the channel. Which example is your favorite XJ?

@mohammadal-abbasi7247

2 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign My pleasure! White 50th anniversary 🙌🏼 XJ50 is gorgeous

the sketches are cool 👍

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanka for tuning in, much appreciated. Glad to hear you like the sketches! We have a selection of videos on the XJ and other videos with these sketches!

@jaroslavzaruba2765

Жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign cool, i am going to filter through your videos

I have to say, the old design is good and the new revolutionary design is great. Always loved Jaguar, it’s just too bad it doesn’t sell in high volume like the other luxury cars here in the US. I like the bold design direction 👍🏼 more so than bmw of course. 😉

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

They are pretty indeed, but as the film described: just pretty cars do not sell, this is a major strategic design blunder that the Brits made at Jaguar and the Germans, for instance, understood a lot better.

Great insights here which I thank you for. Would you consider doing the same for the Jaguar F-Type?

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching the video and for (again) proposing the F-type. Will see what can be done. Hope you enjoy the other Jaguar videos on this channel meanwhile!

I owned a new XJ, it was a wonderful luxury sedan, regal, elegant and beautifully appointed. It had that timeless British sense of grace and manners. The austere Germans had nothing like it. My mother loved to be taken around in it., long rides in the country to see the horse farms. However when she passed I sold the car. I didn't need such a large sedan.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Many thanks for sharing your personal story - these are always interesting to hear. Glad you enjoyed your XJ and could share it with a loved one. That is always the best and most personal way to enjoy a motor vehicle.

Logically the Leaper logo on the boot should be facing to the right.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Most people would feel the other way around (going left) would suggest a forward motion rather than running "back" Hence this direction was chosen.

Another great analysis. I'm personally not a huge fan of the 2009 body change in respects to what had come before as it feel too far away from it's heritage. I'm not saying 'go retro' but when I see a new VW Golf model, or a Ford Mustang post 2015 (again, away from the retro comeback of 2004) I see a connection that is an evolution in form. Don't get me wrong it's a great looking car from the A-pillar going back (and I love fastback design) but the front (something about those lights) looks a little boring imo.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

The newest car indeed is a radical break from the past. Some good, some not so good features. The fact is they did it - they pushed it through the board of directors and many other decisionmakers. And it saved the brand, although indeed the evolutionary style you write about is missing, you have to imagine how a Golf would look like if it would not have had any evolution looking forward up until the current gen. In that case the changes would also be very radical.

My favorite styles are the Series 2,3 and the 350-1. I think Jag would be Wise and come out with a Gorgeous and Smartly Designed retroish Series 3 design.🙄

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in. Well, the problem is that the rest of the world thinks differently about retrospective design. Jaguar has proven just that, as per this video.

bravo jaguar

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and for sharing your thoughs!

sorry, the x350, with the aluminum chassis and classic silhouette, is missing

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in! You will find that X350 in the video, for the sketches we picked 3 models out of the full line-up.

6:54 love that thinly veiled insult towards mercedes

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and for sharing your thoughs! Although there is plenty of things wrong at Mercedes-Benz, this point wasn't meant for the brand directly when the text was written. Although it perfectly suits it indeed, haha!

This is probably the best brief in favor of Callum’s design. I almost believed it. But why am I still left cold by that design? It still strikes me as generic as it did initially. Particularly the interior which has no feeling of that old British club room feel. Lots of wood, yes, but it’s all at your elbows, not at your line of sight. I simply feel neither heritage or passion. I had a 2006 XJ Super V8 for 10 years and put over160,000 miles on it. Loved it. I now drive a soulless Mercedes because the new XJ didn’t speak to me at all. And clearly I am not alone because it didn’t sell that well. It’s out of production. And no clear timeline for the EV XJ. Saddens me, really.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

The outgoing XJ perhaps did not do as well as the now outgoing marketleader S-class, with over 500k cars produced, but at over 122k units made, it wasn't a failure at all. The X350 sold only a bit over 80k. Things change, and although the outgoing XJ wasn't perfect, it did bring the XJ into the picture of many who did not consider it before.

In my opinion the front looks amazing but the rear end lags that superior and very classy and also even a bit pissed off look to match the front. It‘s weird looking

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. The XJ definitely was not perfect, but still a very important step into the right direction for the brand. The rear end might not be a direct link to the previous XJs, but it did link to British automotive design in a more general sense, one could argue.

The only problem is that "today" there is no new XJ available at all

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Indeed. This video was made just after the XJ went out of production, but before the XJ in its electric new shape was canned... Quite a shame!

Still love my currant XJ L very much but can;t wait to see the coming new all electric XJ.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Glad to hear you like your XJ L - the new electric XJ is surely going to be very interesting!

Great video! Being a classic Jag fan and previous x308 owner, I can totally understand how Ian Callum was trying to take this model forward and can also appreciate the considerable obstacles and challenges he faced in combining styling that retained some of the "Jaguar DNA" along with meeting safety, aerodynamic, accommodation requirements and most importantly, attracting new younger buyers to Jaguar. Alas, the quad headlamp and long tail look had to go after 40 years. He was also trying to avoid the "Russian Doll" approach too so designing a stretched XF wasn't an option. In my opinion, the worst view/profile is side elevation and the messy collection of shutlines/panel joints at the foot of that all controversial C pillar. This however can be alleviated by darker paint options. Black/Dark Blue are the colours to have. How would I summarise this model? "Not a pretty Jag but by no means an ugly car!"

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for getting in touch and your message - glad to hear you enjoyed the video. There's lots to be said about this now outgoing XJ. Enjoy your X308 - a lovely motorcar indeed!

Is XJ already rip?(

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, it sadly is!

"Beautiful cars simply don't sell" - this lamentable verdict has led to Jaguar's body line has become more 'stubby' as time goes on. My favourite model is stil the 1979 series 3, even though the bumpers are a bit too 'prominent' and there should have been a bit more distance between the front grille and the bumper to avoid a 'squeezed in' impression. Also the V-8 at 3:36 is certainly one of the most elegant Jaguars. History of car design - a burden? Well, the new black (plastic?) honeycomb grille of the new model at 6:10 with its 'forlorn'-looking Jaguar head looks like that this head has been arbitarily 'glued on'. At 6:37 the long boot looks a bit out of proportion with this bonnet. It should have been designed shorfter (just as shown in the Mercedes 201 series. The rear windows of the latest model are a bit too 'sleek' just as is the descending roof which might limited the head room of rear passengers. The fully glassed roof in combinatiion with the large rear window is a perfect example of elegant styling. Very interesting 'tour d'horizon' of the history of the specificity of elegant British car body design.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in! If you like the series 3, please do have a look at this very recent video we did on the XJ12: kzread.info/dash/bejne/Y4aE25SrcsyuaZc.html Indeed, the history of the Jaguar car design line-up became a true burden for the brand, rather than a pool of inspiration. Not enough was changed over the years with retrospective cars - lovely vehicles, great styling, but strategically poor - so people walked away. It is as simple as that. So, yes, they made some lovely cars, but they just did not sell. The honeycomb grille of the new/outgoing model was a direct link to the XJ S1, which also did not have a frame around the grille, which was very modern at the time. The S2, S3, XJ40, etc all had a frame around the grille, up until X358. Only X351 went back to the future with the frameless grille of S1.

I have owned an XJ40, and still own an XJ300 and an XJ 350, I am one of those that despises the styling of the replacement XJ. Nor do I like the dishwasher dial gear selector or an instrument panel that looks like the 55-inch television in your house. The last series XJ interiors looked more austere like a German car. No thanks! If I wanted a car that looks like a Buick I would be driving one.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for tuning in. The replacement XJ definitely was not perfect, but unfortunately neither was Jaguar's strategy to keep on producing the classic shape. As it eventually sadly killed the market demand for the XJ.

RIP XJ

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for tuning in! Yes, it sadly is no more... We do however have a selection of Jaguar videos n this channel!

The only problem is Jaguar has decided to discontinue the XJ line😒

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Well, they sadly did indeed. Fortunately we have some videos on the brand here!

The front and interior design is unique and very pretty. That bustle rear however bears little or no relationship to the lithe elegance of the front and side. It’s hideously bulky while the huge rear window and C pillar treatment is tasteless. A more formal sculpted smaller rear window so characteristic of luxury coachbuilt British limousines would have suited this car perfectly.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and of course for tuning in to the video! The front links back to the very first XJ, with its frameless grille. The interior design is pushing very hard away from the traditional setup with the typical flat facia of wood and centre stack. The bustle rear does the same, one could argue, as the interior. Pushing hard, it perhaps bears little or no relationship to the lithe elegance of the classic XJs, but it does link to a selection of classical cars from the Jaguar brand. As per the video, there was a big need to move away from the traditional shapes that - although very beautiful - did not attract any new customers to make it a profitable undertaking. One can debate endlessly on how good or bad this take is, and it indeed is not perfect. But what it did do is pushing Jaguar into the future. Without this car it likely would not have survived.

@MrRea112

2 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign Thanks for taking the time to reply so comprehensively. I see the points you make and agree with Ian Callum’s critical need to define a new language that pushed the theme forward. He broadly gets it spot on, even the bustle rear. However I’d refer to Holden’s last Statesman where GM designers resolved the big rear more coherently (in my humble view). It’s not as controversial but I thought it was pretty. As you rightly say, it’s clearly subjective and I enjoyed the fact it’s provoked a fine discussion. Keep the good stuff coming Niels.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

@@MrRea112 And thank you for initiating the discussion! It is always a great pleasure if people reach out to engage in a meaningful and open conversation about car design. Frankly it is the entire and sole reason behind the channel. Comparing the last XJ to the S-class, 7-series and A8 produced during its lifetime shows that the essence of the classical XJ shape (the lovely and sleek proportions) has been carried over very well. The rear end got visually (a lot) heavier due to the raising shoulder line. That line is making the car look more dynamic, more modern but it of course is also raising the boot significantly at the same time. And that is, for the XJ visual lightness, a rather big downside of the new recipe. Looking however at the first XJ, the series 1, at its time it was a very radical new shape. One with fresh details too. The grille had no frame. That was changed at series 2 as clients prefered a more traditional grille, with frame. That again was then carried forward all the way up to the X350 and X358 XJs, only the very last XJ linked back again to modernity of the integrated, frameless grille. One could argue, in general, the hard push into a more modern brand DNA that Ian Callum initiated did help the brand to survive. The need to define a new language pushing the typical/classical DNA of great proportions and clean surfacing generally was executed well. But pushing so hard on design brings massive challenges to the team. Apart from technical issues, many conceptual isses surely were discussed too. When is pushing hard too hard, where does one lose the conceptual essence and when is that essence a creative burden? Indeed, broadly Ian and his team did get it spot on, but the (for now) last XJ isn't perfect.

@MrRea112

2 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign Were you involved?

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

@@MrRea112 Sadly not! That body shape was produced from 2010-2019, so likely it was designed about 4-6 years prior to the launch. I graduated from RCA Vehicle Design in 2012. 😆 😅

Electric Jaguar

@nivarivera9443

2 жыл бұрын

High performance

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

That was sadly canceled...

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

@@nivarivera9443 Hope you enjoyed the vid!

The 2003 - 2009 XJs Were the Best XJ. Like the BMW 7-Series 38E of the 1990s.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

In the video it is explained why these might be nice XJs, but also very much the wrong XJ and the reason there currently is no XJ.

@donaldclay9535

2 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign Touche'.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

@@donaldclay9535 And that is not said with pleasure, by the way. These cars are truly lovely, but the design concept was wrong and the company lost clients. XJ used to stand for Xperimental Jaguar, the later cars were retrospective. Beautiful, yes, crazy well done proportionally. But most people bought 7/S/A8... Perhaps you have seen the XJ12 videos already? If not, enjoy!: kzread.info/dash/bejne/Y4aE25SrcsyuaZc.html

@donaldclay9535

2 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign Touche'.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

@@donaldclay9535 👍

The C pillers should have been painted.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for tuning in! And for sharing your thoughts. These pillars make the XJ stand out. The idea behind it is interesting.

I have the xj 2017 and I'm mad because is the same like 2013 2016

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

And, sadly for now it will be the last...

The problem with Jaguar was not moving on after the '40, the 308 was a massive mistake which made the brand no more than a tribute act. The only problem with 351 was it was 20 years too late and for all that you can blame those incompetent idiots at Ford.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for tuning in! And for sharing your thoughts. Indeed. This is the essence of the video: a lovely piece of car design sadly isn’t enough when it is too late.

I think the car failed on many fronts.Old school Jag people would hate it because it wasnt like the older generation XJ6.New buyers see a XJ6 as an old mans car.And unfortunately Jaguar doesnt have a great record for reliability,and the final nail in the coffin it resembled a 1985 Ford Granada Scorpio with the rising waistline.....Tough call for Jaguar to see where XJ6 goes from here.....

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It was the very first modern Jaguar - a bit change - and something radical had to be done. And although far from perfect, it was the very first iteration of a new style for the brand that dod help it to survive.

Bollore was a complete idiot to cancel the new XJ programme, not just because it was so far down the development process but also because he must have fundamentally misunderstood that it's a figurehead that have a halo effect on all other models. It says "Jags are beautiful, different, charismatic fast cars" - no matter if the next one might not have been quite as good as a 7 or S-Class, as long as it stayed a driver's car, and kept its individual character. He dropped it because he thought the brand should move upmarket and focus on SUVs. What, you mean like Range Rover?! Idiocy. Yes of course electric SUVs are the future but the new XJ (even of the sole saloon in the line-up) would have kept the history and character of Jaguar alive. Moving forward, but keeping a link with the past - just as this model did. Jag made £1.5 billion (yes, billion) profit in 2015 on the back of new models, so why would Bollore say Jaguar cannot compete with Audi and BMW? It doesn't HAVE to match their sales volumes. Thank God he's gone. I hope the new CEO has a grip on what Jaguar is and should be all about. It needs to evolve, not change markets completely. If they want to compete with Bentley, resurrect the Daimler brand for that and keep Jaguar where it should be - different, luxury, mid/upper market cars.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Sadly the decision has been made. The Daimler name has been sold unfortunately too… Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for tuning in to our channel. Many more car design videos here!

I disagree. I think radical changes are ok sometimes. The rear lights I actually love but you gotta keep some design elements. The front lights for example are the most distinctive thing I always remembered as pure jaguar with the quad lights and the expression of that detail along the length of the hood. That and where the c pillar meets is my biggest disappointment. It looks like a lexus or even worse a honda. I dont believe thats what has killed or now revived the company. The quality and technology has revived the brand. Its a nice car, but its no more a jaguar than a lexus and for that what a shame.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughs. We'll have to agree to disagree, the video tells a different story... The quad headlights of classic XJ Jags are clearly echoed in this outgoing model. Including the typical surfacing running along the length of the hood coming from the lamps. On can call the blacked out C-pillar many things, but not Lexus nor Honda, as these brands never carried this feature. You might personally not like its design, but the last XJ clearly has revived the company. That car, as discussed in this video, has helped the brand making more money as it sold in larger numbers compared to X351 and X358. Which made the F-Pace, E-pace, I-pace, F-type, XE and new XF possible.

@guywebster8018

3 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign and as for quality and tech for a new buyer?.. Not to mention warrantee...... www.wildejaguarofsarasota.com/what-everyone-should-know-about-jaguar-reliability/

@guywebster8018

3 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign you are right we agree to disagree but jaguar has been brutalized for the radical changes and these cars are no longer timeless there is a distinct disapproval of some of the best designers in the industry for good reason. To make the claim design saved it is a giant leap just like the horrible design of these automobiles

@guywebster8018

3 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign lastly the design of the quad headlamps and hood is not whatsoever carries up the hood. There are some lines following the lamps but absolutely not in quad or tubular form, one of the things frank Stevenson loved about jaguars design. Again. Its a pretty car and they were able to get away with it for a younger buyer but sadly this era will be forgotten.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

@@guywebster8018 Thank you for your remarks. However, and with all due respect, but there is absolutely nothing that compares between the XJ and the cars in your image. The proportions, surfacing, volumes nor graphics of the images of the XJ blacked out C-pillar can be linked in any way to the RX nor the Maxima. The last two feature horizontal graphics and volumes that stay on the side surface of the car, joining the DLO, whilst the XJ rear window wraps around to the side window graphic, over the bow-like cant rail. Two utterly different things. The eighth generation Maxima start of production was 2016 and the fourth generation RX was first made in 2015. Production of the X351 started in 2010, so in no way the Jaguar designers look at these two Japanese cars. You might not be the customer for the new Jaguars, that's a very personal choice. That doesn't deflect from the quality of the work and strategic thinking from the Jaguar Design team under Ian Callum - himself one of the most acclaimed car designers of the world. The radical changes these cars presented were much needed and saved the brand, no doubt about that. It is rather British to look back instead of forward, but after the first few XJs the rest of the world did move on. So, to compete with the German competition a massive change was needed, and largely implemented well in the XJ. The new Jaguars are very different compared to the retrospective ideas of the last few generation XJs, but still very much timeless: clean, pure, simple, and athletic. All Jaguar core DNA values that go well beyond tacking on old fashioned quad round headlights, despite the fact these are clearly hinted at under the freshly shaped headlight glass. There are not just "some lines" following the lamps, but key character lines that link back directly to the first XJ, including subtly flowing soft tubular forms from the large outer round headlight graphics. Also, do not forget the first XJ was a very radical car in its time, pushing forward rather than looking back. Much like the E-type was too. The claim the design saved the brand is not a giant leap, just simply look at the sales figures: 2009 turnover was 4,900m GBP, whilst 2017 turnover was 24,000m GBP...

They got caught up in fads like so many "luxury" brands. They should have stuck with the classic body style, made a few tweaks and improved the lineup mechanically as well as technologically. Changing the body style was a huge mistake. The XF is an embarrassment to the brand and the idea that they're going to just have an XK and a bunch of SUVs is tragic. A luxury car should be about comfort, class and convenience. Handling is irrelevant. If you want a car that handles like a sports car, get a sports car.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. The issue actually is sticking with the classic shape too long. It is key for OEMs to innovate and when needed reinvent themselves. The XJ is dead because that innovation lacked for years as explained in the video. Staying relevant in an everchanging market. The XJ was lovely but not enough new clients bought them. The newest or latest XJ was too late. Sadly.

SEJ

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

SEJ?

Car designers omit many characteristics when modernizing a heritage brand DNA. One major characteristic is "expression". Just because something becomes aerodynamic doesn't neccessarily requre that the front face statement should look "mean" with downturned eyes. As with this case, the Jaguar was never angry looking. Its such an obvious mistake that happens far too often in design and i am starting to wonder if these designers are picked due to nepotism because I clearly do not see competence

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Claudia, thanks for sharing your thoughts. Car designers have to be selective when selecting from a set of characteristics when modernizing the DNA from a brand, they take important ques from the heritage of the brand and its DNA. The aerodynamic performance and the facial features are not interlinked, as per your comment. Although both are often required. The frist from a efficiency standpoint and the second from a large chunk of the clientele. Modernising cars doesn't neccessarily require a face to be "mean" with - however, a focus is important. Indeed, Jaguar was never angry looking - they did however often had a certain focus, a look of intelligence so to speak. More focus is not however a mistake or misunderstanding of the brand as such, it is an strategic choice. You personally might dislike it, but a large group of customers does appreciate the focus or even aggression. You can rest asured, no designers are picked due to nepotism - the job is extremely difficult to get into. It is higly likely it is easier to become an astronaut. Selection on BA and MA design courses is very strick and selection by the industry even strickter. There is a lot of competence and talent out there. More on that and many other subjects on this channel. Hope you enjoy the videos! For instance on the Bentley Conti GT: kzread.info/dash/bejne/eHyg0cuRhL3ddco.html

@claudiakramer4516

2 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign i understand, but I think a face can be serious or focused and not look mean. It depends on the character of the car. For example, a focused look from Marilyn Monroe will vastly look different than a focused look from Samuel L. Jackson.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

@@claudiakramer4516 Absolutely - we do not disagree, I believe. Perhaps important to mention in this lights are that the steps taken at the XJ are very big compared, when Callum decided to steer the brand into a new direction. Especially to competition that made smaller steps on each new model they introduced in - say - the 7 series or S-class lineup. The open rounded XJ headlights are extremely friendly, almost naive one could argue, compared to modern day more sculpted headlight graphics. That big step has to be taken into account when judging the facial features.

Nowdays, XJ jaguar feels sooo fat.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Park it next to an S-class, 7-series or A8 and see the difference! The XJ is actually quite a nible machine. Surely the XJs have grown, they had to as the XJ cabin has always been extremely cramped for larger people - the exact target group of large sedans...

I find the design evolution a disappointment. They totally threw out the design of one of the most iconic styles.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for getting in touch. It might be a disappointment to you, but in the end the brand had to reach more people. They did through more relevant and modern design. Once could argue (and the video does) they did not totally threw out the design of the most iconic XJs. The essence was translated into a modern car.

@todelattbcn

3 жыл бұрын

@@NielsvanRoijDesign The essence of jaguar was the round headlights and the grille with its protruding chrome trim, that's just a premium kia.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

@@todelattbcn Hi there, thanks for getting in touch. Why the link to Kia? And in the video we share exactly why the essence of Jaguar was not the round headlights and the grille with its protruding chrome trim... ;-)

It's pronounced JagUar not Jagwar!

@NielsvanRoijDesign

2 жыл бұрын

That's the only thing you took away from the review? 😉

X351 went away from traditional styling. Bad choice. Let's hope next xj can live up to previous xjs. Still better looking than all it's German rivals

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Well, you personally might not like it, the video explains in detail why it actually was a good idea. ;-)

@punjabimundaUK

3 жыл бұрын

No man.... old is old, you have to move with the times. Jaguar needed to move away from the old gentleman's club. In the old days it was the older men that had the money and was aimed at them, now there is a lot of money in young hands and the cars need to appeal to the young driver.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

@@punjabimundaUK Spot on. The difficulty often when discussing strategic car design with non-car designers is they (understandably) know only what they know, as in: not what could or should be. So, surely the classic XJ era is interesting, subtle and clasically beautiful. But if it would have continued the chances are very big the brand would have gone bust.Callum was what the brand needed, as he prevented that. And of course it wasn't perfect, no big revolution ever is. But in gereral the last XJ is/was design-technically well executed. Proportion, surfacing (skin) and jewellery (details) were spot on and balanced, mostly speaking the same form language. The brand had to be pushed into the future to stay relevant. Too manyu British brands are gone now because of looking back too often instead of looking forward.

The C pillars on the current model is awful. The older models looked better to me. I wish Jag could have figured out a better blend of the old style with a modern interpretation.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. The old one sadly did not sell though. A radical change was needed.

Nothing

@NielsvanRoijDesign

8 ай бұрын

Sorry?

The new model is not a jaguar, it is just a kia on steroids, it is not ugly, but it is not a jaguar. The last genuine jag was the 5 series (x300), with its inline 6 engine.

@NielsvanRoijDesign

3 жыл бұрын

Unfortunately, the harsh reality is that if Jaguar would have listened to people with opinions like yours, the brand would have not been here anymore. Sales of the retrospective Jags went down significantly over the years, leading to the very bad financial situation Jaguar found herself in before Ford saved the brand from bankruptcy. You personally might not like the current direction, and that is of course understandable - also because the classical Jaguar XJs were gorgeous motorcars - the rest of the world however unfortunately thought very differently and moved towards German and Japanese competiton.