Most reliable car I've owned, I have clocked up 231 thousand miles in the 15 years I've owned it with just routine services. The best journey I had in it was a trip to Germany a few years ago, and had the chance to let it stretch its horses on the autobahn it just touched 150mph and maintained it for miles.

I had a 1989 jaguar sovereign at the age of 19. Friends drove fiestas and I felt like a king 🤴

I served my time on these. I never ever got tired of 308's. This is iconic, ageless and genuinely the last of the real Jaguars.

I like people like you who can buy any car but intentionally chose this British icon and keep it on the road as long as possible. X308 proud owner here.

"I love the long bonnet or 'hood' if you don't like using English" - very naughty but I like it!

I'm happy to see another X308 XJR is preserved. I have a 1999 XJR and I agree the electrical gremlins are annoying but if you replaced all the ground straps and battery leads most issues go away. However you are right, you need to drive these 1-2 times a week, VERY sensitive to voltage.

Fantastic job on keeping a timeless Classic on the road!! Did the same with a S-type 3.0 that needed new subframe and new sills. The rest was great condition. I did RVS treatment on it in the engine, gearbox, diff and Servo so now it averages 30+ and nearly 40 on a run. There’s something about Jaguar that is very special, soft and comfy but still sporty, fantastic in the bends. I wish style and class went into fashion again.

I have a similar era XJ8 with most of the bugs sorted in the Ford days. It certainly gets the looks and I like the no compromise low driving position and the cupboard sized boot. No supercharger on mine but 4 litres is enough for National Trust visits!

I had one, the most amazing thing about it to me that never ceased to amaze me is how it went round corners, you'd think it would be a big wallowy barge but it corners on rails. It broke down once outside Buckingham palace, armed guards all over us, I like to think it picked its moments.

That interior looks stunning ! The leather looks immaculate 👏🏻

I can relate to your article. Our first Jag was a black 2000 XJR, wow. But after a couple of years and at 134K miles, I thought we would have to invest in upgrades, or best bet might be to buy a newer and low mileage XJR. Found a silver 2003 XJR in Dallas, TX with 27K miles. Flew to Dallas, drove it home to New Hampshire - March of 2013. Still have it, and a '96 XJ12, and a 2008 XKR Portfolio. Love them all, and all are different. Vanity license plates are very popular here so the XJR was, and now the XKR is 'BADKTTY'. We get lots of comments on the Jag. I've owned a lot of cars, the '08 XKR is easily the best car ever, and the 2003 XJR is right behind it - and it has heated seats, cupholders, and steering wheel moves in and out as well as up and down.

Love it, so ! Being an older man I went out & bought a pristine 2007 XJ Sovereign on Friday. The steering wheel is electricly adjustable & automatically gets out of the way when you switch off. It has 4 cup holders & since it's the 2.7 TDVi 6 speed model, I'm getting 45mpg Around Town. On top of that there's a special place to put the Cocodcomol & Werthers Originals.

An excellent review by someone who truly understands the car. Since I was 17 I've owned almost every model Jaguar from the 1950s on up to 1999. Currently have a 98 XJ-R, a 99 XJ-R and a 99 XK-8. I totally agree that the X308 is the absolute most beautiful of the last 40 years or so. My 72 XJ-6 short w.b. would be a close second to me. One other maintenance item that is very important (from personal experience): The rubber oil cooler lines. I strongly suggest changing them pre-emptively, as that failure could easily destroy the engine just like the tensioners. I couldn't find new lines, so I had a hydraulics outfit remove the old rubber hoses and replace them, held on very securely with hose clamps instead of crimp fittings. Cost only $40 after r & r'ing them. Every moment driving any of mine is a moment to smile and actually feel at one with the automobile. That applies to every Jaguar I've ever owned (10 and counting).

Amazing car and a great video! You are one of the few reviewers who dont spit shout scream or wobble. Love your content. Keep it up!

I completely agree with this gent. Well spoken mate!

Thanks for an excellent review. I had a 2000 year XJR like this (still have it but not on road unfortunately). I previously had S reg but not supercharged. The XJR is beautifully quiet to drive until you open it up and then it's a fantastic refined roaring lion. Really loved my one, not cheap to run, but the last of the true Jaguars ever made. After posting the first part of my comment in 2020, my son and I decided to get the XJR back on the road. We’ve spent just over a year on it and we have replaced fuel pumps, new lamda sensor, ABS wheel sensor and fixed main ABS pump (needed pcb soldering), “A Frame” removed new bushes installed and repainted and new MAS meter as it was giving crazy air-flow rates without throwing a fault code; we discovered it as it wouldn’t properly accelerate past 3500rpm. Also replaced top Accelerator cable as stretched and was only giving 81% opening.We also added new window seals all round from secondhand doors we purchased. The only work we didn’t do personally was welding of the front footwells and sills. The car has around 111k miles although the engine only has around 60k as it was replaced in late 2003 because of the Nikasil bore issue. Last month the car passed it’s MOT and is now happily back on the road. We only last week replaced the top throttle cable (they stretch) and according to our ELM327 we were only getting 81% of full throttle opening. The car is now driving beautifully and both my son and I are absolutely loving it and intending to do further restoration work on it over time as we will never sell it. They are stunning vehicles which are easy and docile to drive normally, but open the engine up and the power and sweet noise of the Eaton Supercharger is intoxicating.

Lovely Jubbly, hear that Jaguar roar when pulling away.

A very informative insight into this wonderful iconic classic and thank you for keeping this beauty out there for every one to appreciate

The indicator sound screams class to me. The upholstery and carpets dampen the sound and that reminds me of sitting in the back of a Silver Shadow when I was a kid. Wonderful car!

Brought my 01' XJR in 2005 and I absolutely still love my car. Its stylish, powerful yet still refined.

I used a Maplin's one watt solar panel on the back shelf on my X308 to keep the battery fit while parked. For my sins I replaced the sagging ceiling liner with a £4 leopard skin throw from High Wycombe street market. Then I put a subwoofer in the rear armrest alcove.

You're not Clarkson, but you're better than any of those who took over and ruined Top Gear. The metaphors are good, esp Argos Catalogue etc

Always loved this model, even today still is the embodiment of good taste and understated performance. Your video really makes me think the time is right to have one of my own

I had a 1971 XJ6 and loved it - it had a timing chain guide problem with it's hemi DOC 6 cylinder. Still a great car. I have driven the XJR from San Diego to Reno and back - same genes, great car.

I bought myself one of these in may, amazing cars love every time i have the opportunity to get it out on the road. As the previous owner said you will never waste a tank of petrol in an XJR you will enjoy a tank of petrol.

"Propels you to..." *Cheeky look* "... the speed limit" We've all been there. Great video :D

Hi there, I've been talking about getting an XJ for a while, well now I've got a 2008 x358 diesel and it is superb !! I'm out in it today and it's just so nice drive; comfortable, precise, powerful, economical. It's all good and down to you, so thanks very much, Dave.

Fantastic car. As a Jag fan I love those XJRs. Looks like you've got that one back to great condition too.

Very well done and described... I have a 1999 XJR with 14500 miles.... It without reservation brings a smile to your face when driving... Majestic car with superb ride, handing, speed and history....

Not gonna lie, I absolutely loved my X350, despite its faults, it was a joy to drive. Had the X308 as a courtesy car and could see the work that was done to create the X350. Perhaps one day I’ll have another.

Love to see classics being kept on the road, thumbs up!

Here in the great wild state of Wyoming I have my horse, my dog, my old 76 GMC pick up..and my 98 XJ8L...I am delighted you also love them. I saved mine from a reckless fellow in Colorado who had no idea the class of car it was..nor how to drive or care for it. Yes..we put money in..yes I found an excellent mechanic and he is tied up in the barn. My black jag and I took a 3200mi walkabout in 5 states this last summer..now theres a love affair..camped out of the trunk, saw beautiful places and always brought smiles...Yes...a one of a kind automobile💞🔥💞

The subtitles say „music“, when you hear the engine.

“It propels you to, the speed limit”...🤥

My boss had one of these when I worked in Warrington. It had a Swallows Racing remap, and it is still to this day the fastest car I've ever been in.

Absolutely perfect. Loved these cars.

Weirdly this is one of my dream cars, loved this video

Such fabulous cars, these X308's, especially the R. Jaguar is up there with my favorite makes of car, as there is no one else who, time after time, gets the mix of ride, performance and great, yet understated style so right. As much as I do like the current XJ, these older ones look so nice, and they've aged really well, they don't look at all dated. In terms of "modern" Jags, if I could afford one of these R's, preferably a black XJR100, and an XJ81 6.0, I'd be a very happy man. Unfortunately, with the county, even World, being as is, at present, I couldn't even afford to fill one with fuel! One day though.

Lovely thing, well done maintaining it and looking after it as it deserves

I am really enjoying your videos. Right up my street and a big inspiration for my own fledgling channel. Keep it up.

''it knows who it is and who its trying to be...its not over the top sickly british.... ''. Every word you use to describe your X308 shows great command of English and great insight into cars. Totally enjoyable

"Can you name a prettier car?" "A prettier saloon" No no, car was fine

you blokes in the UK are are so lucky, you have a lot of Jags to chose from. here in Johannesburg there are not a lot. and are expensive. thank you i love your blog.

I’ve fitted a wooden XC70 wheel in my V70 - it’s dark wood and absolutely beautiful. I love it’s rarity and feel of the road through it is amazing. It’s wafty and super comfy but really good fun on a twisty country lane too - it surprises many occupants. It has no airs and graces, it’s not out to impress in the carpark at work. Totally with you with keeping old cars on the road. My hat off to you

"Grace Pace and Space" Well OK on everything but space - the 308 platform was never good on space to be honest especially if you were over 6ft tall and was a tad cramped in the back (unless you had the extended version) But having said that I had few problems with mine but there were a few issues with rust - door frames, sills, front wings and also a sagging headliner took their toll on my wallet and eventually it failed its MOT on a number of issues that I simply could not afford to fix so it went on its way. I replaced it with a LPG converted "normal" XJ8 (executive) and never looked back for almost 8 years of trouble free driving only being sold as it was basically too low to get in and out of with a sore back. Someday I'll get another just for the fun of it :)

Lovely interior,think you will regret letting it go in days to come as it’s a lovely spec and you’ll never find another in so good nick.

Hey man, that's a lovely car and wonderful commentary too. Those XJ's are never seen anymore here in the USA but I always thought they were the sexiest sedan's every made. It's incredible though how modern they still look even 20 years later. Thanks for taking the time to share your beauty!

Excellent review, and the perfect length: comprehensive, plus engaging throughout. (Like the XJR!)

The loveliest car ever made, particularly the whole dash was so distinctive Jag's feature and largerly missed these days )))

Bloody lovely car that. In its element with a boot full of sawn-offs,moody artwork, and re-cast bullion.

Nice one, well done for keeping that glorious machine on the road!

Another great review, keep them coming! Jaguars, I love them (had a3.0 V6 x type sport) a little mid-life crisis! Cost a fortune to run but I miss it more than I can say. Beautiful car you have there, still looks fantastic after all those years!

Think I recognized where you were, dove holes going through Buxton to Matlock bath..

I quite agree with you, but I actually prefer my 6.0 XJ12. It doesn't look quite as sporty (though mine is a SWB) as the XJR but I love the silky smooth torque on demand V12.

Beautiful! I have a 1998 XJR in that exact same color with 96k miles. The thing runs like a champ, especially driving around in Los Angeles. Glad to see this video. Love it!

Nice to see some more youtube content on the Jag X308 XJR. Yours looks stunning in that colour. I would agree with more or less everything you said, although for me, I get about 21 mpg (7.43km/l) combined and never ever more than 25 mpg (8.85km/l) on a run. I use mine as my daily car, and I just can't compare it to anything. Nothing looks like it as the X308 was the last of the XJs to have a really low roof line compared to most modern cars. The X350 just doesn't look elegant at all and is a fair bit taller (though it benefits in other areas such as having aluminium construction). Obviously, the X308 isn't really practical when you consider how long it is; the cabin is pretty snug but I love it. Looks incredible, effortless power, superb ride/handling balance. Probably the best car I've owned.

These are the sexiest Jags ever made ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Only car out of 47 I've owned that makes me say "I love this car" every time I drive it. And you are right, they need to be driven. Being parked is not good for these beautiful and majestic autos.

Great video, love the channel! I had one of these back in the day, they were fabulous cars! Mine was British racing green metallic with a fine gold coachline with oatmeal leather. I loved it! It just got a bit costly to own. Stayed with the brand though, I have an XJR 50 at the moment x351 shape.

very nicely made video. I like the host, no yelling and talking super fast like many channels do. Very professional

And another one to add to my autotrader list of cars that I perve on with the intent to buy

Great review, agree totally. The steering in mine goes in and out and up and down.

Awesome review. I bought a 2010 XF Supercharged a couple years back and I absolutely love it. It looks the same, big and looks like it should wallow all over the place, but it's not. It has that "retired grandpa" look to it, but when I go to the drag strip it runs mid 12's, faster than 5.0 Mustangs and SS Camaros. I'm looking for a second car to drive to work to keep miles off of the XF and am seriously considering an XJR near me. I grew up in love with Lotus Esprits, and I never really considered myself a British car guy, but the epiphany is that I am.

My dad had the older straight six version of the XJR. When he bought it, I was only 7 and we took it out for a drive to my uncles. That car was so fast that we missed the turning to my uncle’s house on the A3. I’m 20 now and i think it’s the best saloon ever made.

I absolutely LOVE the Daimler Super V8 in its stock config.

Prescott had 2 of em. " 2 jags Prescott " lol Lovely stylish cars

I'm amazed at how admired this car is. The ride is hard and it's always breaking down. It's a beautiful car to look at. My husband is working to get another engine in ours and his niece has a 2015 or so and it's been in the shop 4 times in the first 6 months of having it.

I have a x300 sovereign a lot of car for not a lot of money, like yours puts a smile on when I drive it. I always tell anyone who asks what it's like to drive , you get in, the world goes past, you get out, no stress, no aches just enjoy the journey.

1:05 Yes, the e38 7. The Jag is bloody lovely though.

HELLO MY BOY, GREAT, I LOVE ALL YOUR VIDEOS! AND THIS ONE IS WOW !! I'M A JAG MAN, HAD A FEW OVER THE YEARS, FROM A MKII TO A XJ40 XJR. BUT I'M NO LONGER DRIVING, AS I'M PUSHING 80 NOW, AND MY SIGHT IS NOT WHAT IT WAS! YES, I MISS IT, BUT NOT IN MANY OTHER WAYS. WHEN YOU SEE THE STANDARD OF DRIVING THESE DAYS! I NOTICE, THAT YOU DON'T HAVE A BONNET MASCOT, THAT'S A MUST FOR ME!!! ANYWAY YOU TAKE CARE, AND DRIVE SAFELY. REGARDS, RUSS.

A great review of a motoring legend xj40, x308 and the x350 were coming to the end of the real proper jag's with the XJR being the most desirable of these body shapes after the x350 all the family resemblance was lost along with prestige mark of the jag and now we have the F pace it's game over.

Great video Matt, made all the better by you getting into character with your Aaron jumper lol. Had a few XJ,s back in the day, great sellers.

The AJ-V8 engine that is used in this car has to be one of the greatest V8 engines ever made.

Great footage and review on a great car 👍😁 I bought mine back in 2003 from the first owner and have been driving it since then without any major problems. Never had any of the described issues to deal with except for the headlining. No mechanical failure, no rust, the paint and interior still in perfect condition. I will definitely keep this masterpiece of British design and engineering in my collection and keep on enjoying its smooth, comfortable and nevertheless sporty ride 😊 If you like, you can learn more about it here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/ed13ecRhzJndlKc.html

Good video, thanks for sharing. I have the 2001 XJR and just done some welding near the jacking points, took it for an MOT yesterday and passed with no advisories so I'm well pleased. Still quite a lot I want to do with this Jag but I'm certainly keeping it, I've had 2 previous XJR's from 1996 and 1998 and always regreted selling them. I'm sticking with this one! These XJR's are the nuts to drive and look the part as well 😎😎😎😎

My dream car as a teenager, I was able to afford a 3.2 V8 on my 27th birthday, back in 2006. I sold it in 2011 and I miss it to this day.. A great, great car!

Modern Jag designs, especially the interiors, are dull and uninspiring, give me one of these anyday!

So a used car dealer and runs a jag? You looking for a minder 😉😂

I drove one for a few days and loved it. Made you feel special for sure

Love your attitude to these old smokers mate! Been on my list of cars I want to own for years, I must get round to one of these

Watched the video and checked them out on Auto trader. Bingo there's your car! You obviously don't love it that much. Good Vida though

''The Jaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaag!'' ''The loot, is in the boot!'' Dapper old boy, dapper! :)

I love Jags and your car Matt is absolutely stunning. Another great video by the way.

Absolutely stunning looks amazing a love these jags you have looked after this well credit to you enjoyed the video

You're selling it! Nice promo vid ;)

I’ve owned mine since it was 3 years old (15 years and counting). Not only the best car I’ve ever owned, but one of the best cars ever made IMO. Comments at the fuel station include “that’s a beautiful car” from men and women. Thank you Jaguar, you made a diamond.

I absolutely adore this car. By heart I'm die hard volvoniac, owned the lot from 240 across 740, 850 up until V70 but I'm in love with this generation XJ and this is the best and most beautiful example of it. You're very lucky man to have this marvelous beast AND beauty.

I had an XJ8 when I was studying I’m the UK. Everyone thought it was my grandpas, so you’re right about that. Wonderful car, I miss it dearly

You've said it all Matt :) Great video and review. Cheers Mike

Great reviews every time on your channel.... Brilliant realistic perspective. Man you seem to pick all the cars I've at one time went........."I wonder if" 😜👌 Keep up the good work!

Fantastic video. Very well edited.

Don't know much about cars i have a Freelander but I love your information on every car you let us see either own or other wise you are a cool dude

I've just bought an XF 3.0 diesel S and it's the best car I've ever owned. Stunning to look at and stonking fast. Fantastic car.

Still my favourite car ever for all the reasons you said.. gutted to sell it when I moved overseas, it was a 2000 Silver XJR R1

To be extremely honest, I could see you as the new figurehead for Top Gear. I know it’s such a stereotypical thing to say, but there’s never a boring bland spot throughout any of your vids. Great content, keep up the good work!

Great review. You obviously enjoyed that presentation. The XJR is the only car that I've ever lusted after, so watching this gave me a huge buzz. Looking forward to your next video.

Nice to find someone who loves Jags.... my dad must have had a lot of Jags but wen he retired he still has the XJR and like you he's spent my inheritance on it.... lol but its a lovely, smooth car to drive and very quite for a V8

Love this video. I own a black 2001 xjr, 95k miles and I bought it as the second owner last year. Your description of this car is perfect. I did not buy this car for attention, but it turns heads everywhere I go. Everyone wants to know about it. Thank you for your video.

This is great! I just got my XJR, and have been loving it since. X350 over here instead of the x308.