MORE technology and a fresh family look are the highlights of the revised flagship Jaguar XJ 2008 model range.

The main evolution is its new exterior design with changes to the front, sides and rear of every model giving the XJ a sportier, more muscular stance while the XJ also introduces a new Jaguar Growler badge.

The new, more assertive front bumper with revised upper and lower mesh radiator grilles (the latter a distinctive deep scoop), features chromed detailing that accentuates the car's major air intakes.

Behind the front wheels two power vents (in aluminium finish with black painted brake callipers on the supercharged XJR) match those introduced on the new XK sports car.

Over the vents new door mirrors carry integrated indicator lights.

A fully reworked rear end displays a newly reshaped bumper, subtle aero spoiler, revised tailpipe finishers and new badging.

A 19in Carelia wheel is now standard on the Executive models, while all Sovereign models now feature the new 19in Polaris wheel.

Additionally, customers will benefit from six new exterior paint colours to choose from for all models - Emerald Fire, Pearl Grey, Crystal Blue, Botanical Green, Vapour Grey and Azure Blue.

The 2008 model XJ also enjoys improvements to its interior thanks to new heated front seats (with optional air-cooling) which have been extensively redesigned to offer even more comfort and support.

Vehicle cabin air is drawn into the cushion and seat back heat exchanger units.

The air is then heated or cooled and pumped to the top surface via channels formed within the seat.

The perforated seat covers allow the conditioned air to pass through to the passenger.

Heated front seats will still be fitted as standard with the cooling element being available as an option.

All XJ seats will have a new relaxed leather trim and rear-seat passengers will appreciate greater leg and foot room following revisions to the backs and lower cushions of the front seats.

Executive models now come with a heated front screen as standard while the XJR features an R' gearknob as well as the heated front seats with air-cooling, an optional choice for the Executive, Sovereign and Sport Premium models.

All 2008 models feature an upgraded BluetoothTM Connectivity system that allows users to connect up to five approved mobile phones to the car's own in-car telephone system.

Many of the car's main features can be controlled through JaguarVoice, while other driver aids include Adaptive Cruise Control which uses microwave radar technology to detect slower cars ahead and adjusts the cruise control speed to maintain a constant distance from the vehicle in front.

Enhancements to the XJ product range in the UK simplify the line-up to four trim levels: Executive, Sovereign, Sport Premium and XJR.

The entry level XJ Executive (2.7-litre diesel and 3.0-litre petrol) are priced at £43,540 for the 3.0 petrol with the 2.7 diesel from £45,520.

Sovereign models (3.0-litre V6 petrol, 2.7-litre diesel and 4.2-litre V8) add to the Executive specification with 16-way electric heated front seats, soft-grain leather, satellite navigation system and Bi-Xenon headlights.

This grade is priced from £49,540 with the 4.2-litre naturally aspirated XJ costing £58,040.

XJ Sport Premium (2.7-litre diesel) versions feature R' seats with leather seat facings as standard, aluminium veneer, black side window surrounds, Cremona 20in alloy wheels and satellite navigation.

The 2.7-litre diesel is priced from £51,520.

Topping the range is the XJR (4.2 Supercharged V8) which gets the aluminium finish power vents, a new R' logo gearknob, black painted brake callipers and heated front seats featuring a cooling option as standard for £60,150.