D IS for design. For dynamism. For detail (as in attention to). For desirability.

And all those words spring readily to mind when contemplating the Jaguar XJ, a large four-door saloon that blends luxury with performance in the most winning of ways. Weekend Wheels spent a week in an R-Sport model.

Design: With a sweeping coupe-like roofline, long, taut waistline and well planted stance, the XJ looks lithe and imposing. the sophisticated yet assertive styling including a bold, upright front grille with mesh detail, and LED tail lights with a distinctive pinstripe graphic.

Dynamism: The XJ’s all-aluminium body architecture is strong, extremely rigid and very light. The excellent power-to-weight ratio improves all aspects of performance and the monocoque construction offers increased rigidity for improved handling as well as excellent safety benefits.

Detail: Hand-crafted veneer graces the cabin, phosphor-blue lighting creates an elegant finishing touch and there is s panoramic, heat-reflective glass roof that filters UV rays and floods the interior with natural light while maintaining privacy due to effective tinting.

The XJ’s cabin displays a wealth of high-quality finishes - which are a tactile treat - and an absolute feast of equipment. From the sumptuous ivory soft-grain perforated leather sports-seat upholstery to the chrome and high-gloss detailing, the interior is both tasteful and cosseting.

Features included digital TV, DAB radio, satellite navigation system, surround audio system, Bluetooth, heated power-fold door mirrors with puddle lamps, heated front and rear windows with timer, rain sensing windscreen wipers, heated and cooled front and rear seats, four-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, electrically adjustable steering column (height, reach, entry and exit tilt-away), reverse park camera, traffic sign recognition, tyre pressure monitoring system and electric parking brake with drive-away release,

Desirability: Anyone who enjoys motoring will lap up the driving experience. Sitting on 20in alloy wheels,the R-Sport breathed the promise of power and performance, one that was fulfilled in our road test. The car’s three-litre V6 diesel engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, delivers 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 155mph, while returning 48mpg on the combined cycle (manufacturer’s figures).

Price: £72,510 (inc options).