I finally went and looked at some XJ-Ls. The 2011s were on sale for $10K off MSRP. This together with longer warranty 5/50K vs. 4/50K and maintenance seem to make the 2011s a much better buy than 2012s. 2011 XJ-L with luxury package was ~$10K less than the Super charged. Other than the larger wheel/tires and stronger engine, the cars seemed comparably equipped. What other difference are there between these 2 models for 2011? They both had B&W stereo, rear trays, and massaging seats. Finally, other than the roof recall issue, are there any big things to look out for on the 2011 models?

 

Can you retrofit wood/leather steering wheel in place of leather wheel? About how much would that approximately run?

 

Coincidence, I went to a Jag dealership today. I did test drive the XJ and XK before, bu this time I had time to sit there and "feel" the interior. I thought the interior was a lot smaller than expected. My legs could touch the door and the center console without too much moving, and I am just an average size guy, 5'11". The car felt more 'cockpit' than my LS-460. I liked the chrome details, and the doors felt lighter too, and hollow - I'm not sure if this would translate into more road noise. Seats felt harder, more like German cars. Overall seems to be a well put together car.

 

Just bought 2011 XJL. Dealer got it from Plano, Texas as they had no 2011s in stock. Still got a good deal. Also got more care than I did with the 2006 CLS55 I replaced. Much nicer interior. CLS was a looker, but clients would say back seat was uncomfortable. Seats in XJL are comfortable. The finish in this car is the best I have seen in a while.

 

I just bought two (one superchared L and one regular L) from Plano Saturday. The XJ L was the demo on the floor...got $11K off sticker and it had 3000 miles. The other was a 2011 XJL supercharged with 10K miles. I replaced a 2008 CLS550 and a 2008 GL550.

The XJ L we got does not have the B&W stereo, and it's a huge difference, well worth it, so if both cars are comparable equipped, you're fine. The 385 is plenty...the SC is a blast though. I do feel like the regular car rides a bit smoother than my SC model...but could be tires, etc., who knows.