2011 Jaguar XJ to hit U.S. dealers next month, company looking for 50% growth

The 2011 Jaguar XJ is certainly a drastic departure from Ye Olde Saloon that went out of production last summer. The new car adds some much needed sex appeal to the flagship Jag, and as we found out in our first drive, it's a pretty good steer, as well. Jaguar is hoping that consumers will appreciate the reworked sedan, too – the automaker is hoping to boost overall sales by 50 percent when the 2011 XJ hits dealerships around the world next month.

According to Automotive News, Jaguar sales dropped 21 percent last year – only 51,885 units being moved worldwide (11,955 of which were in the United States). The automaker is counting on the XJ to increase overall sales numbers to around 75,000 units, with one Jaguar spokesperson saying that the XJ will reignite interest in the brand, though the less expensive XK and XF ranges will still continue to be the lead sellers.

The 2011 XJ is certainly priced and equipped to compete with the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz S Class, but can it seriously boost Jaguar's sales numbers? We certainly hope so, and be sure to give us your opinion in the comments below.

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[Source: Automotive News – Sub. Req.]