The hood has the traditional curves that flow back from the top edges of four small, round headlights. The wide grille protrudes forward slightly and the leaping jaguar, called the Leaper, sits on top of the hood. The rear is uncluttered and features the iconic triangular taillight clusters.
From the side, the XJ has a high belt line, the trend at least partly because people feel safer with taller side panels. This makes the side windows appear shallower. The windshield is set at a modern, raked angle. The subtle way in which the belt line edges up as it goes to the back gives the car a purposefully crouched look.
New touches freshen the exterior for 2006. The XJR's chrome mesh grille inserts are used across the line, making every XJ look sporty. However, the R models will be distinguished by a body-color surround for its mesh grille.
