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I have planned to get a short wheel base XJ as its just the wife and I for travel. It also seems very difficult to find a short wheel base on most lots. Is there a preference for the XJL re it being a smoother ride or something? it just seems like such a long vehicle.

 

Believe me when I tell you the XJL is the way to go. You never have to worry about moving the front seats up if someone's in the back. And since the trunk is on the smaller side it gives you plenty of room to put stuff.

 

I've always bought SWB XJ's because the LWB's always seemed too limousine-like to me and less sporty (I've had several LWB loaners while mine were in the shop and did not particularly care for them). Don't worry, there is plenty of leg room in the rear of the SWB's without compromising the front seat leg room. That being said, I believe I am in the minority because they sell a lot more LWB's since you pay such a small premium for them.

 

According to the Jaguar website the only real difference is the year in warranty you lose. Everything else can be purchased as options.

 

If you like extra leg room ,XJL is the way to go . One positive thing to XJ's scoreboard is when you park in narrow tight places but your rides come with rear view assists that means it neutralizes this

 

I'm in Northern Virginia like you. The dealers around here seem to carry a ratio of 9:1 XJLs to XJs. I measured my garage, and I can just squeeze in the XJL. I'd have to use the parking sensors though!

 

Get the L, your guest will love it and so will u. I wish I had the patience to wait for one but I pulled trigger on the SWB and it's the only regret I have on the car.

 

I went for the LWB model, the passengers really love it, personally I think the side profile is suited very well to the extra length. It really makes the car feel so much of a luxury car, it was £3000 more than the SWB model but I have never regretted my choice, best of luck in your choice.