1998 Jaguar XJR review from Australia and New Zealand

Had a fair few suspension problems at 60,000 km- had to replaced the wheel bearings and various suspension bushes.

Radiator hose off the thermostat split, at the same time also found two other lower hoses were in need of replacement.

Tyres seem to last only 20,000 km. Trying an alternate brand.

This car has the best Jaguar interior to date- a superb flowing dashboard in maple walnut, fitting in well with the central instrument console. Leather seats and carpets have stood up to the wear well and still look like new when treated. Analogue dials for rev counter and speedo suit the ambiance.

All the electrics work well- minimal extra "gadgets", but all the expected gear- climate control, CD stacker, quality sound system.

A seriously quick car- recently managed a 13.9 second / 105 mph quarter mile. The handling is excellent- good enough to take on most other cars on the winding roads of New Zealand. Wide tyres give plenty of grip, and the traction control intervenes well to prevent the rear swinging out if you are taking the corner too fast.

Only complaint is that the boot is cosy- can be forgiven given the looks of the car.