1991-96

The car was re-engineered in 1991 and renamed XJS, with a convertible waiting one year. The rear windows were enlarged, though the flying buttresses stayed, as designer Geoff Lawson argued that they were part of the car's character. The car got a new 4-litre version of the AJ6, and the V12 was upped to 6 litres in 1993. At the same time the car benefited from a revision to the rear brakes, they were now fitted with outboard rear disc brakes, instead of the more complicated inboard items on previous models.

These changes begin the "face-lift" for the aging XJS. A 2+2 convertible was also introduced, as was a customized insignia line. In 1994 the car received an updated more aerodynamic bumper fascia front and rear completing the face-lift. 1994 also marks the only year the 5 speed manual transmission xjs was imported to the United States. Exact production figures are unknown, though it is likely there are fewer than 10. 1995, substantial revisions were made to the 4-litre AJ6 engine. The new design was designated the AJ16 to reflect the major differences between it and the original AJ6.

Production of the car came to an end after 21 years in production in 1996, with the introduction of the XK8.

XJS Today

Having been in production for over 20 years, the XJS today can vary in price from a few thousand dollars for an older coupe, to over twenty thousand for a late V-12 Convertible. The sweet spot of the market is often considered by enthusiasts to be the mid-80's coupes. While initial build quality is likely no longer a factor, these cars were greatly improved over the earlier models but are not nearly as expensive as the later cars. Over time, the XJS has slowly moved from "used car" status to collectable. More often than not however, these vehicles are in the hands of non-enthusiasts. Most cars on the market suffer not from mileage, but from age. Everything made of rubber is likely to have disintergrated with time if it hasn't already been replaced. This includes perhaps hundreds of small hoses, bushings, and seals. If these inexpensive, but time consuming to replace, parts are renewed the balance of the car is fairly indestructible. The old "Lucas Jokes" are more applicable to a 60's MG than an '80's XJS. Potential owners are encouraged to visit Jag-Lovers for considerably more information.