Holla,
Has anyone got or seen the (really expensive) optional extra "Ski Hatch" that can be fitted to the XJ?

Jaguar Accessories Online Catalogue. - XJ - INTERIOR - FUNCTIONAL AND TECHNOLOGY - Ski Hatch - electric seat

... or has anyone ever manage to open up a hole behind the rear central arm rest?

The reason I ask, is that I am slightly dissappointed their is no standard facility to put long items in the XJ and it would be nice to see how Jaguar do it offically... or how difficult it is to make your own modification?

 

Here is the fitting instructions from Jaguar. Yes, you have to cut a hole through the sheetmetal.

 

That looks like a replacement strut brace too? No wonder nobody bothers!

 

Right?! It is pretty involved and looks expensive. I'd be curious how many they have sold.

 

I'm really surprised to see that! My dealer tell me they were NO WAY to have a ski trap in the XJL because they were computer and a lot of stuff in the back of the back seats, and that was why they didn't offer split seats in the back.
Anyway, those ski traps are always too small to be usefull. With new larger skis now, you can hardly fit 1 pair. I need much more romm for my skis when I travel. That's why I won't keep the XJL for long term. I really need folding back seats..
That's too bad. That car is so fantastic in the snow!

Guy

 

In my 2011 XJL there is a huge fusebox accessed from pulling the leather away from behind the central arm rest, surely that would be right in the way of a ski hatch ?