Jaguar Shows Significant Improvement in 2004 J.D. Power and Associates APEAL Study

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 15, 2004 -- Jaguar shows significant improvement in the latest J.D. Power and Associates APEAL (Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout) Study. The APEAL Study is based on responses from new-vehicle owners who were surveyed during their first 90 days of ownership. Jaguar made some of the greatest improvement among the luxury nameplates surveyed. Jaguar rose in the ranking by three places, placing fifth overall in the study from eighth in 2003.

In the APEAL Study, which measures owner delight with the design, content, layout and performance of their new vehicles, Jaguar's best performing model is the XJ sedan. A ground-up new design for 2004, the all-aluminum XJ improves in the APEAL Study by 40 index points, moving from sixth to third in the Premium Luxury Car segment of the study. The Jaguar XJ's powerful and refined 4.2-liter V8 and 6-speed automatic gearbox performed particularly well in the Engine/Transmission segment of the study with a 63-point improvement year-on-year.

"The Jaguar XJ speaks to customers who are looking for the definitive luxury car with standout style, intuitive technology and our renowned levels of craftsmanship," said C.J. O'Donnell, executive vice president, sales marketing and communications, Jaguar North America. "We know our new XJ is connecting with consumers and this notion is proved by the results of the APEAL Study."

The all-new 2004 XJ sedan went on sale in June 2003, and is the most advanced road car Jaguar has ever produced being constructed from rigid and lightweight aluminum. In September 2004, the XJ stretched in length by 5 inches with the addition of three new XJ Long Wheelbase models -- the XJ8 L, Vanden Plas and the Super V8.

Progress in this latest survey from J.D. Power and Associates follows the company's recent 2004 Initial Quality Study, which saw Jaguar become the highest ranked European car manufacturer for quality. Jaguar rose from tenth in 2003 to rank third overall, an increase of 20% on the previous year's performance. Again, Jaguar's best performing model was the XJ sedan. The S-TYPE and X-TYPE improved their performance by 28% and 13% respectively.

From its beginning as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars in 1922, Jaguar Cars has grown to become one of the world's premier manufacturers of luxury sedans and sports cars and with that, one of the most recognized commercial brands. The company's vision is simple: To produce beautiful fast cars that are desired the world over. The company operates three manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom and is fully engaged in environmental programs, community work and brand awareness exercises such as motor sport.

Jaguar offers a four-model range of luxury sedans and sports cars packed with fully competitive technology and safety systems wrapped up in stylish bodies. The X-TYPE premium compact sedan is the company's first all-wheel drive model combining unmistakable Jaguar looks in an affordable, sporting package. Entry to the Jaguar range via the X-TYPE is at a cost of $30,995.

Jaguar's mid-size luxury sedan is the S-TYPE distinguished by styling reminiscent of the original Mark 2 and S-type sedans. Positioned above the X-TYPE in size and price S-TYPE ownership begins at less than $45,000. The flagship XJ sedan has been the cornerstone of the marque since 1968 and is the definitive Jaguar. The 2005 XJ is the most technologically advanced car the company has ever built, using aircraft-style aluminum construction for lightness and strength. It is also the longest and most spacious Jaguar offering a selection of long wheelbase derivatives in the range. The XJ range starts at less than $62,000. The XK series, including the XK8 and XKR coupes and convertibles are Jaguar's sports cars. They combine high performance with luxurious interiors and grand touring capability. Pricing begins at just over $70,000.