It's very hard to search for because all google returns is what the differences are between the two (and even those answers are ambiguous).

so, how can you tell what you have if you bought it secondhand?
VIN number? and if so how?
is it on some label in the car? if so where?

 

Hi
If you look at this forum a few days ago, there was a post
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...rences-250733/
If you look at post #13, I put up the page from the manual which gives the relevant numbers.
Digits 6 and 7 in the VIN are the key, numbers 87 - 90 are Sovereign.
Executive isn't mentioned, but it is probably the same as an SE, i.e. just above base XJ.
I hope it's a Sovereign, they have lots more toys.
There is an engraved label at the base of the left A-pillar (bottom left corner of the windscreen) and depending on the market, a sticker on the left front door hinge shut face or on the B pillar (not sure about this).

Pete

 

aha... its a 71 so not Sovereign... although it seems to have a lot of options. no steeringwheel heating though.

by the way that chart is an older one? for example digit 8 in my VIN is an: N and its not mentioned.

 

the car dealer reckoned it was a sovereign. not sure why.
it has metallic paint, xenon, headlight washers, satnav, cd changer, front and back parking sensors , powerfolding mirrors, even cupholders! haha

only thing that really annoys me is that i cant open the boot from the keyfob... although there is a button for it. same with headlights from keyfob.

 

Hi psyo,
Great that you have deciphered the numbers, and the 8th digit is a bit hit and miss. Mine is an L and it isn't in a lot of the charts either. The next job is to go to your local Jaguar dealer or independent, and ask them to run a vehicle enquiry, based on your VIN number. This will get you what is effectively the build sheet, where you can see exactly what it was built as, and what options were specified, as well as useful serial numbers and any warranty claims against it.
Have fun!
Pete

 

A Sovereign should have contrasting seat piping. That's my theory.
A Sovereign may or may not have fold-down trays for the rear passengers.
But wait, doesn't a Sovereign say "Sovereign" at the back?

SE perplexes me, must be an Executive in a different market. This is the "base model". Couldn't find a reliable source.
Options is not a reliable indicator. The SE or Executive can be nearly fully optioned, though I've never seen seat piping or fold-down trays on one.
An "XJ" is an Executive as far as I can tell.

I can confirm that the keyfob boot open should work. Does it work from the lower dash button? I'd be thinking a new fob battery, and/or a car reset (disconnect the battery). At least it's free.
The remote boot unlock will only operate with the gear selector in Park. Also, there may be a 20sec delay after the boot is operated by any means.