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The first XJ was launched in 1968; a designation which has been used for successive Jaguar flagship models ever since and was also the last Jaguar saloon to have had the input of Sir William Lyons, the company's founder. In late 1979, the XJ was face-lifted and was known as the 'Series III'. Using the long-wheelbase version of the car, the XJ6 incorporated a subtle redesign by Pininfarina. Externally, the most obvious changes over the Series II were the thicker, rubber bumpers with decorative chrome only on the top edge, flush door handles for increased safety, a one-piece front door glass, a grille with only vertical vanes, reverse lights moved from the boot plinth to the larger rear light clusters and a revised roofline with narrower door frames and increased glass area. The introduction of the Series III model also saw the option of a sunroof and cruise control for the first time on any XJ models.

Originally registered on 5th September 1985, this Series III Jaguar has clearly been a well looked after example. Finished in the delightful colour combination of Gunmetal Grey with Doeskin interior, this Sovereign 4.2 is reported to drive well with no known faults. The smoothness of how these Jaguars' drive must be experienced to be appreciated. They glide over bumps in the road effortlessly and the 4.2 litre XK engine offers brisk performance. With paintwork that is virtually unblemished, chromework that is in excellent order and leather trim that has stood the test of time well, this Jaguar Sovereign is a very nice example. Supplied with a V5C registration document, a current MoT test certificate valid until 29th January 2026 and a comprehensive history folder. This quintessentially British saloon offers comfort and prestige in equal quantities. Consigned by Stewart Banks.