When Jaguar introduced the current version of the flagship XJ saloon, the grille that was initially featured on the 2003 model was a retro design that dated to the original XJ of 1968.
It is a sporty design, though quite dated. Has a certain quirky and singularly British charm that is akin to the some of the old Rover saloons of yesteryear (which may have been economized copies of period Jaguars but my knowledge of 60s/70s UK automotive history isn't that detailed).
Since then, and with the onset of the Super V8 and the Vanden Plas long wheelbased sedan, the North American market has been treated to only the wire mesh grilles that used to adorn R models exclusively (i.e., XJR).
However, hop across the Pond and Jaguar Cars Ltd of the UK continues to sell the original grille on the entry-level XJ Sport.
I'm not certain that I miss the original grille. The wire matrix cuts a sleeker profile.
Yet, as a Jag enthusiast, it's fascinating to note what in aesthetic terms doesn't work here in the U.S., but does manages to sell well abroad.
Tap the link to learn more on current XJ saloons: Jaguar Cars Limited
Tap the link to learn more on XJ saloons of yore: Jaguar Enthusiasts' Website
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